Bridgend Council Embraces Welsh Government’s Nature Emergency Declaration
In a unanimous decision, members of Bridgend County Borough Council have thrown their support behind the nature emergency declaration made by the Welsh Government back in 2021. The motion, put forward by independent councillor Ian Williams of Oldcastle, was met with approval from all members present at a recent full council meeting held in April 2025.
During the meeting, Councillor Williams highlighted the alarming statistics that led to the Welsh Government’s declaration of a nature emergency. These figures revealed that 17% of the 3,902 species studied in Wales were at risk of extinction, with numerous others facing a decline in population. He emphasised the importance of addressing the decline in Welsh wildlife, which saw an average decrease of 20% between 1994 and 2023, with around 1 in 6 species facing extinction in 2023.
The Environment (Wales) Act 2016 was put in place to combat the diminishing biodiversity in the region, placing a renewed emphasis on public authorities to safeguard biodiversity and ecosystem resilience. Councillor Williams highlighted the Welsh Government’s commitment to integrating their response to the nature emergency into all aspects of governance, urging the council to align their decisions with these efforts.
Labour councillor Paul Davies, the cabinet member for climate change and the environment, echoed his support for the motion. He outlined various initiatives undertaken by the council since 2018, such as securing over £2 million for tree planting and biodiversity schemes across the borough. Additionally, the designation of Bedford Park as the fifth nature reserve and the expansion of Frog Pond Wood indicated the council’s proactive stance towards conservation.
The recent council discussions on the nature emergency followed a detailed update on Bridgend’s endeavours to combat climate change. Significant savings of over £650,000 were reported alongside emission reductions achieved since 2021. This holistic approach towards environmental preservation underscores the council’s commitment to sustainability and wildlife protection.
The motion to endorse the nature emergency was further strengthened by an amendment proposed by Labour councillor Martin Hughes of Maesteg East. He urged the council to acknowledge the shortcomings of current environmental strategies and commit to setting new targets to address the ongoing nature crisis. This forward-thinking approach signifies a dedication to evolving practices in line with the pressing needs of the environment.
With an unwavering dedication to preserving the natural heritage of Bridgend, the council’s alignment with the Welsh Government’s nature emergency declaration marks a significant step towards fostering a sustainable and biodiverse future for the region. By prioritising the protection of wildlife and ecosystems in their decision-making processes, the council sets a commendable example for local governing bodies across Wales.
Overall, the council’s resolution to support the nature emergency declaration demonstrates a commendable commitment to environmental stewardship and sets a positive precedent for collaborative efforts towards preserving biodiversity in the region.