The Senedd passed legislation designed to strengthen environmental governance and introduce legally binding biodiversity targets for Wales.
The Environment (Principles, Governance and Biodiversity Targets) (Wales) Bill proposed an Office of Environmental Governance Wales with powers to hold public bodies to account for compliance with environmental law. It also established a framework for future targets to halt or reverse biodiversity decline. At the time of the vote, the legislation had not yet received Royal Assent and the new institution was not operational.
Why it matters: The watchdog’s independence, funding and ability to challenge decisions by ministers and councils will be central to whether the reforms work.
