It’s happened. 4th June has passed and I can legitimately call myself an author. #futuregen is now at the mercy of the book-buying public but helped enormously on its way by all those who contributed (140 of you) and the number of events and publications about it in the week running up to its launch which I am reliably informed by the organisers exceeded 10,000. A big thank you to The Hay Festival, The Bookseller, Business News Wales, Tortoise Media, RSA, SOIF, The Big Issue, A Great Read, IWA, i magazine, Network News, Cardiff University, University of South Wales and my own University of Wales Trinity Saint David for maximising its exposure. A special mention to those who participated in the launch moderated by Oliver Balch (a contributor), introduced by Jon Rae, UK Commissioning Editor for Chelsea Green (who persuaded me to write the book) and the wonderful Satish Kumar who lifts my heart every time I speak to him. The launch is accessible here.
My book has been stroked (by me – apparently a usual activity for first time authors) and admired (by others) for its wonderful cover and text layout. Well done to the imaginative and talented Chelsea Green team who took me from the idea to the product. For those who prefer different formats, the ebook is available from Amazon and elsewhere and as soon as I can get access to a sound recording studio, I will record the audio-book. Apologies to those who prefer audio-books, but unfortunately, we couldn’t find a place for me to record during lockdown. I’ll be on it as soon as I can. There will be a US launch in early autumn and I’m hoping for a Welsh language edition by Christmas.
I intend to use my website as a repository for information linked to the book, so hopefully it will become a resource to campaigners and activists as well as policy professionals and parliamentarians. The book itself contains the links to documentary resources covering the journey from the start of the National Assembly in 1999 to the passing of the Wellbeing of Future Generations (Wales) Act in 2015 and its subsequent implementation. Each of my blogs will put full quotations from contributors into the public domain. I will notify the specific contributors when this happens and feed back to you directly if I receive any comments linked to your contributions.
CONTRIBUTIONS
WELSH MINISTERS’ VIEWS OF THE ACT
Today I start with the ministerial views of the Wellbeing of Future Generations (Wales) Act. The developing role each of them played in the sustainability journey is a significant part of the book and through that, those who have bought the book can see their public statements and thoughts at the time they had the responsibility. Their words clearly show the narrative changing and development during the years.
I also asked them to comment on the opportunities of the Act now – here are their views:
Sue Essex AM, Minister for Environment, Planning and Countryside, 2000–2003
The Well-being of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015, has taken sustainable thinking and, indeed, the challenge further. The enormous threats associated with climate change are testing this legislation and the recent update in the State of Nature report shows that we still have to give our natural environment renewed focus if we are to turn the intentions of our legislation into positive outcomes.
John Griffiths AM, Minister for Environment and Sustainable Development, 2011–2013
Now that the Well-Being of Future Generations Act is in place, it is encouraging that there is a deal of international interest and other countries and governments are considering similar legislation. The climate emergency is generally recognised, including by Welsh Government, and declarations will rightly be viewed in the light of whether radical change to strategy and policy follow. New thinking is required and the recent decision not to proceed with an M4 Relief Road across the Gwent Levels is a positive sign. Wales is fortunate to have the Act as a strong foundation upon which to build at this vital time.’
Jeff Cuthbert AM, Minister for Communities and Tackling Poverty, 2013–2014
I remain very proud of my contribution to this innovative and futuristic Welsh law. I'm as sure now as I was then that, if properly implemented and with the right spirit, it will lead to a better and more sustainable future for our young people as they move on to become parents and grandparents.
The Rt Hon Carwyn Jones AM, First Minister of Wales, 2009–2018
The Act has to deliver, not just for Wales, and provide an example for others. It’s not enough to pass a law and set up a Commissioner to police it. Our aim has to be to change behaviour and thinking in government.
We have to keep on reminding ourselves that mortgaging the future of our children to provide us with short-term gain is not how we want to define our ourselves. The question we must ask is, ‘are we delivering sustainability in all its forms: environmental, social and economic?’
There are some who will argue that sustainability is fine, as long as it doesn’t impede economic growth. They see it as a burden to be tolerated. It’s no burden to have jobs that last, communities that are balanced and vibrant and an environment that is clean for people to appreciate.
Sustainability creates jobs. From the wind turbines generating clean energy, from the tidal lagoons that can provide electricity for over a century to the circular economy with jobs provided in recycling, the message has to be that sustainability is a long-term job creator, not a ball and chain around the economy.
There are exciting times ahead, and I’m proud that Wales has shown the way.
Carl Sargeant AM, Minister for Natural Resources, 2014–2015
Wales has taken what we believe is a game-changing step by laying the foundation for our future in the Well-being of Future Generations Act. By doing so, we have become one of the first nations on Earth to formally place sustainable development at the heart of our public services and legislate for a set of clear goals – linked to the UN’s Global Goals – that set a clear path to a sustainable future.
Rt Hon Mark Drakeford AM, First Minister of Wales, 2018–present
I believe passionately that, as a globally responsible nation, our most radical days are ahead of us. A prosperous, resilient, healthier, more equal and globally responsible Wales with cohesive communities and a vibrant culture and thriving Welsh language, is within our grasp and the Future Generations Act shows us the way.
If you have any comments on tis blog, or would like to get in touch, please use the contact form. The form also works for the growing number of followers of my husband Guy for his weekly reflections on growing and wildlife in his blog, PatchWork which will also be updated weekly – unless the slugs get the better of him!
8th June 2020