What we’re doing

This report will examine Natural Resources Wales’s (NRW’s) approach to designating Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs), including NRW’s application of the sustainable development principle in taking steps to meet its well-being objectives through its approach to SSSIs. Those objectives, set out in NRW’s Corporate Plan, include ‘nature is recovering’.

Why we’re doing it

Wales has experienced a significant loss of biodiversity.  The Welsh Government has committed to protecting and effectively managing at least 30% of our land, freshwater, and sea for nature by 2030 (the 30x30 target).  SSSIs are important for vulnerable species and NRW has said it will identify opportunities to enlarge and better connect them. However, there have also been concerns about gaps in data about protected sites and about NRW’s capacity given wider financial pressures.

When we’ll report

Autumn 2025