Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 3:38 pm on 4 November 2020.
Diolch, Dirprwy Lywydd. As we all know, this week is Climate Week, and it's a chance to reflect on our collective efforts and commitment to addressing the present and enduring climate and nature crisis. Since the Senedd declared a climate emergency in 2019, we maybe haven't seen the decisive shift in approach that many of us would have hoped for, indeed maybe would have expected, and I know that many of us are also frustrated that Wales doesn't have the powers we need to make the biggest possible difference. But, where there have been positive steps towards tackling climate change and the associated threats to our ecosystems, our economy, our health and the well-being of our future generations, then, clearly those have been very welcome.
So, this week we should take stock of what's been done, what's being done, and what more we can all do to get a grip on this global crisis. We all understand the significance of this challenge and, of course, the pressures of the current COVID-19 crisis and our exit from the European Union will only add to this greatest of efforts. I'm sure we can all agree that more needs to be done to make sure that Wales plays its part in tackling climate change and reversing biodiversity loss. From reducing energy demand through increasing energy efficiency to growing renewable energy, to unlocking more of Wales's natural resources, to decarbonising transport, reforming land use and promoting more nature-based solutions and green infrastructure, we must all commit to going further, faster. And Climate Week this week gives us that opportunity to reflect, to reset and to recharge our personal and collective commitment to carving out that path to a greener tomorrow.