Written question WQ84461

Our ‘Net Zero Wales’ plan highlights how we will reduce emissions whilst delivering wider benefits, such as the jobs that come from new technologies and the those derived from our policy on local energy ownership. These, in turn, will manifest in a strong and valued foundational economy. A link to the plan can be found via: https://gov.wales/net-zero-wales

Alongside this, Business Wales already provide core business support, which includes a focus on decarbonisation and a range of case studies and resources promoting these benefits are available via their website.

Welsh Government launched a £2.4m Decarbonisation and Covid Challenge Fund in November to support collaborative projects deliver innovative decarbonisation solutions, whilst aiding the recovery of the Welsh food and drink sector. And through our Foundational Economy programme, we are supporting suppliers in the food sector to shorten their supply chains, engaging local producers and reducing carbon impact through less food miles.

In addition, our work to decarbonise the bus fleet across Wales is exploring opportunities for businesses to transition to zero emission transport and we are also working to assess how the foundational economy can support delivery of the Optimised Retrofit Programme. This work will inform future business development support linked to decarbonisation.

Our Foundational Economy Community of Practice is providing open access to businesses to raise awareness and understanding of decarbonisation best practice and the positive impact this can have on businesses.