Environmental protection - Wales
Enters into force - 21 March 2016
The Environment (Wales) Act 2016 brings the Environment Wales Bill into force. This Act aims to support effective and sustainable management and use of Wales’ natural resources.
Natural Resources Wales are subject to carry out its duties in line with principles of sustainable management of natural resources. Welsh ministers are required to set five yearly carbon budgets between 2016 and 2050 and to ensure the emissions account does not exceed the stated budget, segregate waste at source by non-domestic waste producers and extend the single use carrier bag charge to low cost reusable plastic bags for life. Welsh ministers are given greater administrative powers in relation to marine licencing and must also, along with public authorities are required to improve, not reduce, biological diversity.