Welsh Government Considers Monumental Air Quality Bill

Welsh Government Considers Monumental Air Quality Bill 

The Welsh Government has introduced the ground-breaking Environment (Air Quality and Soundscapes) (Wales) Bill to Senedd Cymru, marking a significant step towards improving air quality and reducing the impact of pollution on human health, biodiversity, the natural environment, and the economy. This Bill makes Wales the first part of the UK to include soundscape legislation, addressing not only air quality but also noise pollution. 

The Bill encompasses eight primary areas of focus: 

1. Establishing a framework for setting national air quality targets by amending existing legislation on: national air quality strategy, local air quality management, smoke control, trunk road charging schemes, and vehicle idling. 

2. Placing a duty on Welsh Ministers to promote air pollution awareness. 

3. Requiring Welsh Ministers to publish a national soundscape strategy. 

4. Granting Welsh Ministers the power to amend existing noise-related legislation. 

This Bill is a crucial component of the Clean Air Plan, a comprehensive package of measures aimed at reducing airborne pollution and improving air quality in Wales. The legislation addresses air quality on a national, regional, and local level, contributing to the response to climate and nature emergencies, and efforts to reduce inequalities. 

The Environment (Air Quality and Soundscapes) (Wales) Bill also supports the sustainable development principle of the Well-being of Future Generations Act 2015 (WFGA), working to improve the economic, social, environmental, and cultural well-being of Wales. 

Members of the Senedd and the Cross-Party Group on a Clean Air Act for Wales have collaborated closely on the Bill's development, ensuring a wide range of views are considered. 

The Welsh Government has also announced a £1 million Air Quality Support Fund for 2023-2024, aiding local authorities in delivering air quality improvement projects. These projects should focus on preventing, mitigating, or employing innovative methods and technologies to enhance air quality and reduce exposure to pollution.