Freshwater and Land Under Pressure
A major review by Natural Resources Wales (NRW) has highlighted a worrying state of the environment, warning of polluted rivers, failing soils, and collapsing wildlife. Around 40% of Welsh water bodies are in good condition, and salmon are expected to disappear from some rivers by 2030. Semi-natural grasslands, vital for plants, insects, birds, and small mammals, continue to decline, while half of marine species and habitats in protected areas are in unfavourable condition.
The report blames pollution, unsustainable land use, and climate change for worsening pressures. Rising sea levels, more frequent storms, and droughts threaten communities, with projections showing that over 350,000 properties could face flooding and 70% of the population could see water shortages by 2050.
Air Quality and Urban Challenges
Air pollution remains a serious concern in parts of Wales, particularly in towns and cities, contributing to up to 1,400 premature deaths a year and costing roughly £1 billion annually in lost workdays and healthcare. Lower-income areas are disproportionately affected by heat stress, flooding, and other climate-related risks. The report stresses the need for green infrastructure—such as street trees and rain gardens—to make urban areas more resilient and habitable.
Calls for Systemic Change
NRW warns that incremental efforts alone will not suffice. Chair Neil Sachdev described the situation as visible and urgent: “Flooded homes, polluted rivers, failing soils, collapsing wildlife… incremental change will not save us. We cannot regulate or recycle our way out of this.”
Future Generations Commissioner Derek Walker emphasized that restoring nature is a “life-and-death issue,” requiring action across all sectors. Climate Change Secretary Huw Irranca-Davies echoed this, pledging that the Welsh government would lead efforts to restore nature, tackle pollution, and build climate resilience, working with businesses, communities, and public agencies.
The report, spanning over 800 pages, underscores the scale of the challenge and calls for a society-wide shift in energy, food, heating, and transport systems to safeguard Wales’ environment for future generations.
