Jurisdiction: Wales
Commencement: 14th February 2024
Amends: New Legislation
The Welsh Ministers may set long-term emissions targets in respect of pollutants, including;
- ammonia;
- PM10*;
- ground level ozone;
- nitrogen dioxide;
- carbon monoxide; and
- sulphur dioxide.
* PM10 are particles with a diameter of 10 micrometres or less. Such particles are small enough to pass through the throat and nose and enter the lungs.
The Welsh Ministers must set at least one target (a “PM2.5 air quality target”) to reach an annual mean level of PM2.5 * in ambient air in Wales.
* PM 2.5 are particles with a diameter of 2.5 micrometres or less.
Ministers must regularly monitor and review emissions targets to ensure they are on track to be met.
Promoting awareness about air pollution
The Welsh Ministers must take steps to promote awareness in Wales of:
- the risks to human health and the natural environment caused by air pollution; and
- ways of reducing or limiting air pollution.
Soundscapes
The Welsh Ministers must prepare and publish a strategy containing their policies regarding the assessment, management and design of soundscapes* in Wales.
This strategy must be reviewed every 5 years.
*A soundscape is the sound environment as perceived or experienced by people.
Various duties apply and are available to view in the Legislation Update Service.
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