A LOW carbon future for Wales depends on government at all levels being upfront and transparent, natural resources minister Carl Sargeant said yesterday.

Outlining how the Welsh Government plans to meet emissions targets, the minister said it intends to move to carbon budgets which are clear on the contribution needed from different sectors and where accountability lies.

Mr Sargeant said: “I believe there is a fundamental need for transparency. People in Wales should not only have the right to know how their government and its departments are delivering, but also how their local areas and their wider public services are delivering.

“In moving to carbon budgets our aim is to set out a clear pathway within the context of our existing UK and EU obligations for at least an 80 per cent reduction in emissions by 2050.”

The minister said this pathway towards decarbonisation would not only provide transparency but also certainty and clarity for investment.

“I will develop these budgets on expert advice, to ensure that we reduce emissions in a way that not only delivers on our obligations but maximises the economic and social benefits,” he said.

The minister highlighted the energy efficiency scheme Arbed as an example.