Wales is making progress on recycling waste, water quality and some gas emissions. However, Environment, Sustainability and Housing Minister, Jane Davidson, says much more needs to be done across the board, for example in terms of carbon emissions and protecting biodiversity, to meet the Environment Strategy's vision for the nation’s environment.

Speaking at the first ever conference of Natur, the new Welsh Institute of Countryside and Conservation Management, Ms Davidson yesterday revealed the progress being made on their Environment Strategy and Action Plan and outlined plans for the second Action Plan.

She also emphasised the important role that green spaces in urban areas will play in this.

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The Welsh Assembly Government's Environment Strategy and Action Plan, launched in May 2006, sets out a vision for an environment, in 20 years' time, which is thriving and contributing to the economic, social and health wellbeing and health of everyone in Wales.

She said: "We are going in the right direction in a number of areas but we still have a long way to go: including our urgent need to reduce carbon emissions in Wales, and seeing real improvement to the quality of our valuable habitats and protecting our species and ecosystems.

"We need to recognise the Strategy and Action Plan as setting a direction for all, where outcomes will provide benefits for all sectors and groups within Wales.

"Work is currently underway to produce a second Action Plan, which will be more strategic, focusing on a small number of actions and cover the next three years. Biodiversity and countryside issues will be key to this."

During her speech, the Minister also stressed the importance of protecting biodiversity as the first line of defence in the battle against climate change and, in particular, the role of green spaces in urban areas.

(JM/KMcA)