Business and Environment Action Plan for Wales – Third Annual Report 2005-06

The Business and Environment Action Plan for Wales was launched at the end of February 2003.  It derives directly from the Welsh Assembly Government’s sustainable development duty, our working in partnership objectives and the strategic vision for business and the environment as described in the “Setting a Fresh Direction” chapter of “A Winning Wales”.

When I launched the plan in Plenary, I stated that an annual report is automatically scheduled into action plans like this one, and I am therefore very pleased to publish the third and final report produced in consultation with the steering group set up to implement the plan.

The report clearly illustrates the tangible achievements made during 2005/06 by delivery partners and other agents within the resources management focus of the plan.  Furthermore, the quality and range of activities detailed in the “work in progress” section is a very good indication of further significant benefits to businesses to assist in their take-up of environmental best practice.

The plan has assisted in achieving key aspects of our strategic vision in “Wales: A Better Country”.  In particular, it had a clear delivery role in the recently updated National Assembly sustainable development scheme “Starting to Live Differently” and the Welsh Assembly Government’s sustainable development draft action plan. The Business and Environment Action Plan also featured in the “Wise about Waste” and “A Winning Wales” strategies.

The Expert Panel on Resource Management have circulated their recommendations for the second phase of BEAP.  I look forward to the results of their consultation process which will be drawn up into an action plan for the next phase of activity due to be launched during March 2007. It will have an important part to play in delivering the vision and aims which have been set out within ‘Wales: A Vibrant Economy.