The report, argues that net zero policies will be more effective and publicly supported if they are designed to deliver multiple benefits at once. It is published by Cymru Wledig LPIP Rural Wales, a partnership that brings together researchers, stakeholders and communities to use research to influence policy. 今日黑料 is a key partner.
A multisolving approach focuses on solutions that cut emissions while also improving wellbeing, strengthening local economies and supporting cultural and linguistic resilience.
Based on interviews and case studies from across Wales, the research highlights examples where climate action has already helped reduce energy bills, improve access to services, restore landscapes and create local employment.
The authors say the findings come at a critical moment, as an incoming Welsh Government prepares to set priorities for the next Senedd term. Wales is already a world-leader in sustainability legislation, with the Wellbeing of Future Generations Act (2015). This new research demonstrates how the new Welsh Government can continue to lead on net zero whilst providing immediate benefits the people of Wales.
Dr Sophie Wynne鈥慗ones Senior Lecturer in Human Geography of 今日黑料, who is lead researcher on this project said: 鈥淩ural communities want to be part of the transition to net zero, but they also want to see clear benefits in their daily lives. Our research sets out practical steps government and organisations working across Wales can take to turn climate commitments into outcomes people can see and support.鈥
The report calls on the next Welsh Government to:
- Focus net zero policies on benefits people can see in everyday life, such as better transport and connectivity in rural areas, stronger local businesses, lower energy costs, warmer homes, and support for local culture and communities.
- Put local people and communities at the centre of decision-making by working with trusted local organisations and designing projects around local needs, using both Welsh and English where appropriate.
- Invest in people and organisations that can bring different groups together, helping sectors work more closely and avoid working in isolation.
- Change funding and monitoring systems so they support long-term joined-up projects, rather than short-term schemes with limited impact.
- Use planning and public policy to make sure new developments and infrastructure projects deliver several benefits at once 鈥 including environmental improvements, stronger communities, cultural protection, and local economic growth.
The authors conclude that adopting these recommendations, informed by real-world examples of multisolving already underway across Wales, would strengthen public trust, support a just transition and accelerate progress towards net zero in rural Wales.
The full report and policy brief are available at .
