Accessibility tools

We have installed ReadSpeaker’s webReader, which allows visitors to instantly convert online content to audio on our website.

Click on the icon above to try this out, and take advantage of the full range of useful webReader features by clicking the link below.

Readspeaker website

Accessibility statement

This accessibility statement applies to www.audit.wales. This website is run by Audit Wales. We want as many people as possible to be able to use this website.

View accessibility statement

Reporting accessibility problems

We’re always looking to improve the accessibility of this website. If you find any problems not listed on this page or think we’re not meeting accessibility requirements, contact:

info@audit.wales

Approaches to achieving net zero across the UK

14 September 2023
  • Report by the four Auditors General of the United Kingdom.

    Effective working relationships between the UK and devolved governments will be key to achieving net zero by 2050 - given the different net zero targets, carbon budgets and policies across the four nations.

    This is highlighted by the UK’s four public audit offices in their report Approaches to achieving net zero across the UK. The publication sets out the UK and devolved governments’ legislation, policy, strategy, governance and monitoring arrangements relevant for achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions.

    Transport is currently the largest greenhouse gas emitting sector in England and Scotland; whereas in Wales, energy supply contributes the most to emissions, and in Northern Ireland, agriculture is the largest emitting sector.

    The different emissions profiles in the four nations have led to them taking a bespoke approach to decarbonising, including through differing combinations of emissions targets and policies, with varying arrangements for specific sectors.

    Whilst each of the four nations is taking differing approaches to decarbonising, the report also makes clear that achieving net zero in any one nation depends on UK-level action, and vice versa. It is therefore important to ensure that choices made by each nation - when considered collectively - provide an effective path to achieving UK net zero targets, in addition to those set at a devolved level. This will also help to secure value for money on net zero spending.

    For example, UK-wide policy will be critical in defining pathways towards decarbonising heating in buildings, but this will need to be supplemented by action at a devolved level on issues including planning and improving energy efficiency. Interdependencies further arise through financial decisions of the UK government, given they impact the availability of funds in the devolved administrations.

    ,

    Related Report

    Approaches to achieving net zero across the UK

    View more