Nutrient Neutrality in Wales

Nutrient pollution affects protected waterbodies across England and Wales, but the two countries are responding separately to the issue. As Defra announced new measures to try to tackle it in England (see our blogpost of 21st July 2022), the Welsh Government convened a summit to discuss phosphate pollution in Welsh rivers.

River Teifi © Steffan Jones

Acknowledging the seriousness and difficulty of the issue, the Welsh Government has outlined 8 ways in which it will lead the effort to tackle it:

1.       The creation of Nutrient Management Boards to provide governance and oversight

2.       Developing a regulatory approach to enable nature-based solutions

3.       Identifying and implementing short-term measures to ease pollution, such as greater use of package treatment plants

4.       Developing an All-Wales nutrient calculator

5.       Drawing up a consolidated menu of recognised mitigation measures with best practice guidance

6.       Considering a catchment consenting approach

7.       Building on current trials to assess the potential for nutrient offsetting and trading, including development of platforms

8.       Develop and agree with stakeholders a long-term roadmap and action plan.

The measures proposed could form the basis of a sound strategy, but we wait to see how effective it will prove to be in practice in both reducing pollution and in enabling development to proceed in affected catchments. It is essential that the actions are implemented as soon as possible – further delay will only exacerbate the issues.

An Information and Evidence Pack which was prepared to support those attending the summit has been published on the Welsh Government website.

15th August 2022