A future-fit curriculum for our children, solar panels saving a hospital £1m a year in electric bills, a road building freeze and hundreds of people receiving a basic income – these are just some of the changes Wales is making thanks to its world-leading Well-being of Future Generations Act.
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City Deal can be a better deal for Future Generations
Failing to put low carbon as a central pillar of the Cardiff City Deal programme would be both environmentally and economically irresponsible,” says Sophie Howe, Future Generations Commissioner for Wales.
Read MoreSophie Howe, Future Generations Commissioner for Wales, welcomes the news that all new road building projects in Wales are being paused by Welsh Government
“This is a huge step in the right direction for the healthier, resilient and more equal Wales and shows the difference having a Well-being of Future Generations Act makes."
Read MoreIf 2020 has shown that we can live our lives closer to home, how can we lock in the benefits for future generations?
The announcement back in March this year that the UK was going into lockdown was a shock to us all and created significant challenges as we navigated a new world which largely required us to stay at home.
Read MoreThe Media Must up its Game on Climate Change
Stories about climate events are becoming more common across our news channels. Floods, migration, crop failures, public health – the impact of climate change is wide and varied. Perhaps this incremental increase in climate change activity will lead to more coverage where environmental stories compete for air time on our radio and tv news outlets and in newspaper columns.
Read MoreWe can end fuel poverty with £15bn retrofit investment plan for our homes, says Future Generations Commissioner for Wales
Fuel poverty could be eradicated in Wales by 2030 if Welsh Government commits to a long-term plan to improve the efficiency of our homes, says the Future Generations Commissioner for Wales.
Read MoreWell-being of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015
The Well-being of Future Generations Act gives us the encouragement, the permission and the statutory obligation to make the changes needed to improve our social, cultural, environmental and economic well-being
Read MoreWelsh leaders to attend One Young World global forum for the first time
Young leaders from all over the world will come together in London this week to discuss some of the biggest global issues facing future generations. From climate change to education inequalities, the future of work and media freedom.
Read MoreNew report reveals Universal Basic Income in Wales would cut poverty in half
Poverty in Wales would be halved if Welsh Government commits to a progressive Universal Basic Income (UBI), according to a major study commissioned by the Future Generations Commissioner for Wales, Sophie Howe.
Read MoreRadical vision for Wales needed to create future-fit jobs, says Future Generations Commissioner in her plan for new government
Thousands of new ‘future-fit' jobs could be created if the new Welsh Government embraces a radical vision for Wales, according to the Future Generations Commissioner.
Read MoreThe challenges of future housing
Sometimes when we talk about housing, we get very caught up in the technicalities, the regulations, planning and specifics, that we forget that we're really talking about is home.
Read MoreWhat might the world look like today if every country had a law protecting future generations?
The UK’s first 'guardian of the not-yet-born’ is encouraging other countries at COP27 this week to protect future generations from the climate, nature and cost of living emergencies by law.
Read MoreFuture Trends Report: It has never been more important to understand the world around us and the projected world of tomorrow
It is therefore incredibly important that the Welsh Government release a Future Trends Report, as they did this week.
Read MoreWales needs to explore paying everyone a basic income – open letter to First Minister
Wales should explore paying everyone a basic income to study how it could improve lives for generations in the future, the First Minister is being urged.
Read More#skillsseptember - To Bacc or not to Bacc?
The deadline for responses to the Welsh Government on the status of the Welsh Baccalaureate Qualification is TODAY and you can find more information here.
Read MoreWelsh Government budget must signal a change in direction to reset our economy
The Covid-19 pandemic has exposed deep structural inequalities in our economy and society including wage poverty, health inequalities, racial disparities, food poverty, job insecurity and imbalances in quality of housing. At the same time climate and ecological breakdown is escalating, and we risk exacerbating all of these challenges if we go back to the way things were.
Read MoreWales is leading the world on safeguarding the interests of future generations
The world’s first Commissioner whose role it is to act as guardian for future generations, Sophie Howe (Future Generations Commissioner for Wales) will be highlighting how Wales’ is leading the way on safeguarding the interests of future generations when she addresses the United Nations High Level Political Forum in New York this week.
Read MoreInternational Women’s Day
International Women’s Day and what it means for the well-being of future generations of Wales
Read MoreInvolvement
Involvement is at the heart of the Well-being of Future Generations Act. Since the creation of the Future Generations Commissioner in 2016, our office has involved thousands of people to support and inform our work. Some of the involvement projects we have undertaken to date include
Read More#Skills - Geography: It’s Importance in Today’s World - Maddie Emery
As we continue our work exploring the skills we will need for the future, we asked Whitchurch High School student, Maddie Emery, about her favourite school topic and why it’s important to her. As Maddie makes important decisions around university courses and writes her personal statement, we asked her to share her thoughts on what she wants to study in the future and why… Geography: It’s Importance in Today’s World
Read MoreUkraine - As a Nation of Sanctuary, Wales needs to ensure that refugees arriving here from all over the world find us a welcoming nation
We are all devastated by the tragic events unfolding in Ukraine and it’s imperative we do everything we possibly can to help those that have been put in such a perilous and heart-breaking situation.
Read MoreThe Shape of Things to Come
A radical, ground-breaking culture change is essential if public bodies are going to provide better service provision, now and for future generations. That’s the key message at a collaborative event hosted by Wales Auditor General and Future Generations Commission today.
Read MoreShaping Accountability in Wales for Future Generations
A radical, ground-breaking culture change is essential if public bodies are going to provide better service provision, now and for future generations
Read More#SkillsSeptember - Tackling the changing world of work
At Nesta we have spent a lot of time over the last few years thinking about the future of the world of work.
Read MoreBuilding Back Creatively: A Poet in Residence for the Future
The Future Generations Commissioner for Wales, Sophie Howe, in collaboration with Literature Wales and Wales Arts International, is announcing an exciting opportunity for an emerging poet to bring the Well-being of Future Generations Act to life.
Read MoreAdverse Childhood Experiences and trauma: making policy reality
For our younger generation, housing is undoubtedly one of the most difficult challenges they face.
Read MoreWorld's Largest Lesson 18th - 25th September 2017
As we start the new school year, I would like to take this opportunity to remind you of a very special upcoming date in the global calendar, which will provide you with an opportunity to introduce the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals to children and young people and unite them in action with others around the globe
Read MoreWorld Fair Trade Day
As a country not only have we led the way by becoming the first Fair Trade nation the Well-being of Future Generations Act make us the first nation to legislate and place the sustainable development principle at the heart of decision-making to improve our economic, social, environmental and cultural well-being.
Read MoreCulture and Welsh language is essential to help tackle Wales’ biggest challenges
“Public services, as the largest employer in Wales, have a huge contribution to make in developing and enhancing cultural well-being. Culture is the lifeblood of a vibrant society, expressed in the many ways we tell our stories, celebrate, remember the past, entertain ourselves, and imagine the future. Our creative expression helps define who we are, and helps us see the world through the eyes of others."
Read MoreDomestic abuse survivors at Future Generations Wales will get financial support to leave an abusive relationship
People working for the Future Generations Commissioner for Wales will be able to receive cash support to escape an abusive relationship, it is announced today.
Read MoreFuture transport in the capital city - guest blog by Councillor Caro Wild
Cardiff is a really exciting place at the moment. We have a young and fast-growing city, with jobs being created, houses being built and a billion pounds worth of regional rail infrastructure on its way. There’s a real buzz about the capital city.
Read MoreClimate change threat to our homes explored by Future Generations Commissioner’s poet in residence, Taylor Edmonds, with new poem commissioned by free event, Everything Change
‘the leaders, the people, they rolled over like spent dogs, yawned above the warnings’
Read MoreA Ddylai Robotiad Siarad Cymraeg? (Should robots speak Welsh?)
Should robots speak Welsh?
Read MoreFuture Generations Commissioner launches major study into basic income and shorter week
Wales could be the test ground for a pioneering initiative to give citizens a basic income from the government and a shorter working week.
Read MoreA Fit for the Future Programme for Government
We have the opportunity to create a better Wales for current and future generations.
Read MoreCommissioner at COP26
Wales has a huge story to tell at COP26 – our Well-being of Future Generations Act.
Read MoreFuture Generations Commissioner urges Welsh Government to deliver on a green recovery budget
Sophie Howe says we have a “once-in-a-generation opportunity” to reset Wales’ economy and is calling for “visionary ideas and transformative investment” in the nation’s recovery plan.
Read MoreCulture is well-being's golden ticket
Wales is one of the only countries in the world to place value on cultural well-being and as the Welsh cultural season begins, Sophie Howe, Future Generations Commissioner for Wales, will be highlighting how the Welsh approach can be life-changing for the nation.
Read MoreFuture Generations Commissioner for Wales
The Future Generations Commissioner role, was established by the Well-being of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015 - a pioneering piece of legislation which is unique to Wales
Read MoreRefugee Ali joins Wales’ leaders of tomorrow as he graduates from Future Generations Leadership Academy
Refugee Ali joins Wales’ leaders of tomorrow as he graduates from Future Generations Leadership Academy A former asylum seeker will become one of Wales’ leaders of tomorrow after graduating from a transformative programme run by the Future Generations Commissioner. Ali Al-Anbaki, 27, from Cardiff, said he wants to raise awareness of the mental health struggles of people seeking sanctuary, after completing the Future Generations Leadership Academy, which supports young people to bring about lasting social change under the Well-being of Future Generations Act.
Read MoreWhy the new female Dr Who is just the kind of future thinking we need right now…
Recently the BBC announced the identity of the 13th Doctor Who, to be played by actor Jodie Whittaker. Within seconds of the announcement, scores of people took to social media to voice their opinions, with reactions ranging from optimistic delight at this progressive decision to outrage at the role being given to a woman.
Read MoreNext Welsh Government budget is an opportunity for a green and just recovery from the pandemic
I recognise the significant challenges that the Welsh Government has faced in the past year, and it is positive that the draft budget for 2021-22, published in December 2020, emphasises the importance of a green and just recovery.
Read MoreA voice for future generations across the world is crucial says Future Generations Commissioner for Wales at UN summit, New York
A voice for future generations across the world is crucial says Future Generations Commissioner for Wales at UN summit, New York
Read More#SocialPrescribingJanuary A world-leading study into how green spaces improve our well-being - Amy Mizen
Previous research has suggested that spending time outdoors in natural environments, such as parks and beaches, can help support and promote good mental health and wellbeing.
Read MoreWales and the United Nations Agenda 2030: an inclusive review of progress
This week Sophie Howe, Future Generations Commissioner for Wales and the Welsh Government will host a stakeholder summit to build on Wales’ contribution to the United Nations 2030 Agenda.
Read MoreCase Studies
Over the last few months, we have been collecting good case studies of how the Act is being implemented on the ground across Wales.
Read MoreIt’s time we looked at innovative ways of tackling the nation’s health problems
Like many parents, I supply my family with vitamins as we try to prevent the inevitable latest strain of winter cold or even flu. GP waiting rooms fill up and media outlets report the annual surge in waiting times or demand for hospital beds.
Read MoreFuture Generations Commissioner for Wales – July Newsletter
As the summer holidays begin and many of us look forward to spending time with our own future generations, we’re reminded of just what well-being really means; spending time with loved ones, a bike-ride in the sunshine, or simply taking a well-earned break, it’s important to take stock of what’s already been a busy 2019.
Read MoreFuture Generations Commissioner for Wales joins Pope Francis, Chris Hemsworth, and Other Notable Speakers at the First-Ever Free TED Conference
Sophie Howe, will join Prince William, Pope Francis, Al Gore, and over 50 notable speakers at the first ever free TED conference this Saturday.
Read MoreBlack History Month: “I felt that if we sit and watch the television and shout when we see injustice, it doesn’t help anyone. If you go out and put your head above the parapet, then a little change makes things better for people.”
“I grew up in Conway in St Lucia, and I had the most wonderful childhood - growing up in the Caribbean - playing ‘Ticky Tock’ with these nice little stones, going on the boats and by the beach."
Read MoreWales leading the way with Future Generations Legislation - UN plans to adopt Welsh Approach
Wales is leading the way to protect future generations, the United Nations has said.
Read MoreOur future generations need us to listen and take action
In a joint statement the Future Generations Commissioner for Wales and Children’s Commissioner for Wales have given their support to hundreds of Welsh school children going on school strike to highlight the increasing threat of climate change.
Read MoreMeeting Nimrod Wambette during Fairtrade Fortnight Megan Jones-Evans, Deputy Head Girl, Llanfyllin High School, Montgomeryshire
During Fairtrade Fortnight, we, sixth form pupils from Llanfyllin High School were the audience of a Fairtrade assembly ran by Ffion Storer Jones of Montgomeryshire Federation of Young Farmers Club (YFC) and Nimrod Wambette; a Fairtrade coffee farmer from Uganda.
Read MoreA bad week to be a Brit in Brussels: foresight and whether we could have predicted Brexit
Foresight and whether we could have predicted Brexit
Read MoreCommissioner responds to Welsh Government well-being objectives
The Welsh Government has announced its objectives which it says will drive forward delivery of the well-being goals for Wales, as required by the Well-being of Future Generations Act.
Read MoreWe must act now to avoid a climate catastrophe - Sion Sleep, UpRising Cymru
11 years……. 11 mlynedd……. That’s the amount of time that the intergovernmental panel on climate change have estimated we have to change our ways to prevent a potentially catastrophic global temperature rise of 1.5 degrees.
Read MoreThe People’s Platform
For centuries we have learnt and understood the world around us through the ancient art of storytelling.
Read MoreDon’t ignore culture in climate recovery, warns the Future Generations Commissioner for Wales
Culture is a powerful tool for fighting climate change, the Future Generations Commissioner for Wales will say today at COP 26.
Read MoreCymru Can do better to improve lives for today and tomorrow
Here, he explains the next steps and why he believes Cymru Can use the Well-being of Future Generations Act to make Wales a better place to live for now and future generations.
Read More‘Don’t let young people down’, says Future Generations Commissioner as she launches Manifesto for the Future with 11-17-year-olds from Wales, and urges politicians to act now on climate and inequality
Wales’ political parties must act now on the urgent priorities of the nation’s young people, the world’s first Future Generations Commissioner has warned.
Read MoreFuture Generations Commissioner calls for Shorter Working Week trial
The Future Generations Commissioner for Wales has called on the Welsh Government to launch a shorter working week trial.
Read MoreLights out today for a bright future tomorrow
However, one small action as simple as switching off your lights for one hour can help reduce the impacts of climate change on the planet, its wildlife and future generations.
Read MoreThe Commissioner’s view on the EU referendum
If the UK Government were bound by the Well-being of Future Generations Act, would the EU Referendum have gone ahead?’ Wales’ Future Generations Commissioner reflects on what the Brexit result means for Wales’ future
Read MoreFuture Generations Commissioner for Wales welcomes Welsh Government Climate Emergency declaration
Following today’s announcement by the Welsh Government of a climate emergency, Sophie Howe, Future Generations Commissioner for Wales said:
Read MoreGuest Blog by Sian Tomos, Arts Council of Wales - Investing in our artists is investing in our future
As I write, President Trump looks set to pull the United States of America out of the Paris global climate agreement. Climate change denial is gaining traction and dismissing the views of experts and scientists who have studied these things for many years is common place.
Read More#SocialPrescribingJanuary: The interconnections of people and planet: our health depends on nature - Ruth Allen
The interconnections of people and planet: health depends on nature.
Read MoreCymru Can – the new strategy from the Future Generations Commissioner for Wales – says well-being law has to work harder
Wales needs to up the scale and pace on delivering its future generations law, says the Future Generations Commissioner, as he launches his new strategy, Cymru Can.
Read MoreGreen spaces are important – that's why we’re asking Welsh Government to ensure people can access nature within a four-minute walk
People in Wales should be able to access nature four minutes from where they live, the Future Generations Commissioner is announcing during National Tree Week.
Read MoreFuture Generations Commissioner for Wales welcomes ‘brave decision by First Minister on the M4 Relief Road
Following the First Minister, Mark Drakeford’s decision earlier today to reject the building of the M4 Relief Road, Sophie Howe, Future Generations Commissioner said:
Read MoreFuture Generations Commissioner for Wales announces name of first Poet in Residence
Sophie Howe, Future Generations Commissioner for Wales is delighted to announce that performance poet Ruth Evans, pen name Rufus Mufasa, has been chosen as the very first Poet in Residence.
Read MoreDraft budget: Defining moment for Welsh Government
The forthcoming budget is a defining moment for the Welsh Government.
Read MoreCymru Can Strengthen Community Resilience
As part of our series of blogs in response to the Future Generations Commissioner for Wales’ new strategy, Cymru Can, Eleri Williams from Building Communities Trust, explores the link between community resilience and inequality. Here, she looks at what can be done to ensure that Cymru Can achieve well-being for people now, and generations yet to be born, no matter where they live in Cymru.
Read MoreFuture Generations Commissioner for Wales asks for explanation into road freeze exemptions
The Future Generations Commissioner for Wales, Sophie Howe, has asked Welsh Government to explain how decisions are being made on Wales’ road-building freeze exemptions.
Read MorePreventing ACEs is everybody’s business
Preventing adverse childhood experiences is everybody’s business and the Well-being of Future Generations Act provides real opportunity to change the way we do things, says Sophie Howe, Commissioner for Future Generations
Read MoreUrgent action needed to protect communities from climate change
Stronger, more focused action is needed to protect communities in Wales from the risks of Climate Change, says Sophie Howe, Future Generations Commissioner for Wales.
Read MoreNew Future Generations Commissioner calls for ‘urgent and transformational change’ as he takes up post on St David’s Day
Wales’ new champion for the future of the nation is using his first day in the job to call for “urgent and transformational change” to improve people’s lives now and in the future.
Read MoreFuture Generations Commissioner for Wales calls on public bodies to turn words into action and start delivering real changes
Public bodies in Wales must become more ambitious and adventurous and provide better clarity on how they are meeting their obligations under the Well-being of Future Generations Act, says Sophie Howe in a new report published today.
Read MoreGrowing with Trees – reconnecting with nature by Nigel Pugh, Woodland Trust
To nurture a tree, is to nurture your own sense of environmental responsibility, whilst reconnecting us to our immediate natural environment, wildlife, nature, and to all future generations.
Read MoreBudget shows signs of improvement but is some way off the investment needed to tackle the climate and nature crisis says Future Generations Commissioner for Wales
The Future Generations Commissioner for Wales has welcomed the Welsh Government’s budget published yesterday but says the Government is still not comprehensively demonstrating how spending is meeting the climate emergency and how across the board it is shifting its spend towards preventing problems from occurring rather than trying to fix them afterwards.
Read MoreFuture Generations Commissioner welcomes milestones set by Government but says more ambition is needed in some areas
Wales’ Well-being of Future Generations Act is a law that puts a duty on Welsh Government to protect the interests of future generations while meeting the challenges of today - the law requires the Government to set milestones they are seeking to achieve on their way to meeting each of Wales’ seven well-being goals.
Read More#SkillsSeptember: Thinking about the future means looking for opportunities
The pace of technological change is so fast it’s difficult to imagine what the world of work will look like for our children and future generations.
Read MoreFuture Generations Commissioner for Wales on the search for a Poet in Residence
In collaboration with Literature Wales, the Future Generations Commissioner for Wales is proud to announce it is looking for a Future Generations Resident Poet; a new and exciting opportunity for an emerging poet in Wales to bring the Act to life.
Read MoreBlack Lives Matter
I support the Black Lives Matter movement and show solidarity with the protest against racism all over the world.
Read MoreBig Moose chosen as Future Generations Commissioner for Wales' Staff charity of the year
The Cardiff based social enterprise coffee shop that provides employment opportunities to the homeless has been chosen by the team members of the office of the Future Generations Commissioner for Wales first official annual charity.
Read MoreFuture Generations Commissioner calls for a Basic Income pilot for creatives
The Future Generations Commissioner is calling for a Creative Universal Basic Income to pay artists a basic living allowance and help Wales recover from the pandemic
Read MoreBlack History Month: “Children should be taught about their histories so that it becomes a normal thing, not something abnormal and unknown.”
“When I look at my life it feels like I really take after my mother."
Read MoreSkills through Crisis: Upskilling and (Re)Training for a Green Recovery in Wales
In collaboration with the New Economics Foundation and building on research undertaken by the Wales TUC, I have published analysis showing the potential of investment in green jobs and skills for a prosperous, green and equal recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Read MoreA Future Fit for Wales: The roadmap to a shorter working week
I am calling on the Welsh Government to launch a shorter working week trial.
Read More#ACEsDecember Are too many women being jailed in Wales?
In response to a BBC Wales story on the numbers of Welsh women in prison for non-violent offences, Sophie Howe commented on how the impact on children and young people and contributes to Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs).
Read MoreThe Future Generations Report 2020
This report sets out my assessment of progress made in implementing the Act within the first reporting period, i.e. the last three years
Read MoreProcurement
Public bodies in Wales spend over £6 billion each year procuring a range of goods, services and works; this represents nearly a third of total devolved Welsh annual expenditure, and it is estimated that over the next decade Welsh public services will spend over £60 billion.
Read MoreIf you think our governance structure is messy take comfort
When you hear about how things work elsewhere you tend to compare it to what you know and are used to. In that regard learning about how America is governed has been a bit of an eye opener for me - I studied it in a relatively, small doses during my degree but seeing it first-hand is something else.
Read MoreChangemaker 100: Future Generations Commissioner marks end of seven-year term by recognising Wales’ changemakers
People making a positive difference to Wales’ present and future are being spotlighted by the first Future Generations Commissioner, Sophie Howe, as she comes to the end of her seven-year term.
Read MoreFair Trade is winning at public policy
On a sunny day in June 2018, I was privileged to be invited to attend the Inaugural EU Cities Fair and Ethical Trade Award Ceremony, in Brussels along with representatives from 15 other EU countries.
Read MoreA score for the well-being goals
On the week of the Homeless World Cup in Cardiff, we’re celebrating how sport can bring together people of all ages, from all backgrounds.
Read MoreLong-term Thinking
Resources that can help you think in the longer-term and act today for a better tomorrow.
Read MoreNew Future Generations Commissioner reflects on first month as the new guardian for people in Wales not yet born
Imagine a person born 50 or 100 years into the future - how is their life going to be made worse or better by what you do today?
Read More#TransportOctober Community Transport and Future Generations – Llyr ap Gareth, Community Transport Association UK
The international community faces huge challenges of climate change and dwindling resources. The Well-being of Future Generations Act (Wales) argues that if we hope to tackle those big questions, engaging in a sustainable way with local policy will be critical. I want to shine a light on how some of those local and global policy challenges link together through the lens of community transport.
Read MoreCommissioner challenges plans for £1.1bn M4 relief road
Proposals to build a £1.1bn road to ease congestion on the M4 fail to set out how it will meet the needs of our future generations who will be burdened with paying for it,” says Sophie Howe, Future Generations Commissioner for Wales.
Read MoreKindness in Public Services
Recently the Future Generations Commissioner called for the Welsh Government to instil the value of “kindness” at every level of government and public policy in order to meet the requirements of the Well-being and Future Generations Act.
Read MoreBetter public transport and ‘major reduction’ in emissions plan welcomed by Future Generations Commissioner
A new transport vision for Wales’ future that prioritises public transport and active travel is a positive step towards shifting the nation’s travel habits, says Future Generations Commissioner Sophie Howe.
Read MorePublic Services Boards must rise to the challenge of decision-making for future generations
"Public Services Boards must rise to challenge of decision-making for future generations and the Welsh Government must raise their level of support and ambition for them to do so", said the Future Generations Commissioner for Wales
Read MoreThis must be a budget that reflects the requirements of the Well-being of Future Generations Act
In response to the Welsh Government’s detailed draft budget published today, Sophie Howe, Future Generations Commissioner for Wales said:
Read MoreExpert help wanted to shape communications fit for the future
Can you help the Commissioner review and develop her communications approach to fit with her forward looking agenda?
Read MoreSea levels are rising and so are they - school strikes and how we could embrace them in our soft infrastructures - Lorena Axinte, Researcher, Sustainable Places Research Institute, Cardiff University
“What role do you think young people could play in shaping Cardiff Capital Region?” I asked twelve of the city region’s leaders and chief executives in my research interviews.
Read MoreThe Right Way: A Wales future fit for children
In this report we have worked together to consider how Wales’ commitment to internationally recognised children’s rights can work with the groundbreaking Well-being of Future Generations Act to meet children’s needs – now and in the future.
Read MoreTaking account of the Well-being of Future Generations Act in the budget process
The Commissioner has also published advice to Welsh Government with 10 recommendations for they should build on the progress they have made in the draft budget this time around to take more ambitious and transformational steps from 2019 onwards.
Read MoreWorking together to build the Wales we want
In my role as the Future Generations Commissioner for Wales, I have found an increasing interest over the last 6 months, from different sectors and indeed different countries to the Well-being of Future Generations Act and the work of our Office.
Read MoreLong term plans within Welsh Government essential to improve lives in Wales
Welsh Government must focus on planning for the long term, setting the standard for involving people in the decisions that affect them if they are serious about improving lives, says Future Generations Commissioner Sophie Howe.
Read MoreFuture Generations Commissioner for Wales calls for long-term policy ideas to protect against future cost of living emergencies
The Future Generations Commissioner for Wales says the Well-being of Future Generations Act should be used to future-proof against further cost of living emergencies.
Read MoreThe importance of mental health for our future generations
The importance of mental health for our future generations
Read MoreCOP is over for another year - now let’s up the pace on ending fossil fuels and accelerate action in Cymru, says Deputy Future Generations Commissioner for Wales
At this year’s COP28, the world’s nations have for the first time agreed that we must all transition away from fossil fuels. While this is a historic moment for us as global citizens and for our planet, it has failed to capture the urgency of the situation.
Read MoreSupport communities to fight climate emergency, says Future Generations Commissioner as he launches call for all councils in Wales to be net zero
Supporting community climate action is essential if local councils are to help Wales cut climate-warming carbon emissions and reach net zero, the Future Generations Commissioner said today. [Tuesday, March 5.]
Read More#TransportOctober The “joy” of electric cars in rural Wales by Neil Lewis
My wife and I drove UP to the Farm Shop for breakfast in Cross Hands- half the charge had gone-will we be able to get home.... What have I done?
Read MoreOpportunity for all to learn future generations-thinking, as Future Generations Cymru and WJEC launch new sustainability qualification
Working in collaboration with the Future Generations Commissioner for Wales, WJEC has launched its ‘Sustainability in Action’ qualification to support the ‘net zero jobs’ of the next generation of workers.
Read MoreEconomic development cannot be delivered without social improvement
Embedding public value within the heart of the activities of Cardiff Business School, is a unique feature of the school.
Read MoreHealth spending must shift to preventative care to tackle health inequality in Wales
In response to the World Health Organisation ‘Healthy, prosperous lives for all’ published Thursday, 12th September, Sophie Howe, Future Generations Commissioner for Wales said:
Read MoreFair and Ethical Sustainable Christmas
At this time of year, there is a lot of pressure on us to buy gifts for those that we love, and we want to make it special. But have you ever thought that when you are buying something, that there are two people in the transaction? The person you are buying it for, and the person you are buying it from - the producer, farmer or worker.
Read MorePressure mounts on UK Government to follow Welsh Government and back the Well-being of Future Generations Bill
More than two thirds of the public want the Government to consider future generations in policy-making – according to new research - and the Future Generations Commissioner for Wales is backing a campaign for a UK-wide law that protects tomorrow from the actions of today.
Read MoreClimate change – our obligations to future generations
What I’ve learnt about climate change since becoming Future Generations Commissioner for Wales, earlier this year, is quite simply frightening. There is no doubt that it’s the greatest challenge facing future generations and action is urgently needed across the public sector to reduce our emissions and its impacts.
Read MoreStatement on the Future Generations Report 2020
I am pleased to be publishing the first Future Generations Report.
Read MoreBlack History Month: “I believe it’s important to remember that we, as Black people, don’t need to wait for one month out of the year – we can be celebrating each other at any time.”
“All my life I have wanted to become a doctor, however in my second year of studies, when I started plugging myself in to different communities and meeting different people through networking, I realised there was so much to do. And impacts to be made in so many ways."
Read MoreManifesto for the Future: Our Local Elections
Some of the biggest changes often begin on a local level. At such an important – and difficult – time for the world, Wales has the opportunity in the May local elections to do its bit to create a better future for all. This is a significant election too, as 16 and 17 year olds will have the opportunity to vote for their local representatives for the first time.
Read MoreThe best business is when people, planet and profit intertwine
The best business is when people, planet and profit intertwine
Read MoreYour-turn-ship: Cowshed and Future Generations Commissioner create new placement for underrepresented groups in Wales
Cowshed has joined forces with Wales’ Future Generations Commissioner’s Office to offer more paid opportunities for people experiencing barriers to starting a career in communications because of race, religion, age, sex or social background.
Read MoreFuture-proof your planning with easy-to-use tool
A new easy-to-use guide will help public bodies to think and plan better for the long-term, by keeping a clear vision and taking future trends into account.
Read MoreCommissioner supports call for the arts to be available on prescription by Arts Council of Wales
Alternative models for improving health and well-being is one of the priority areas for the Future Generations Commissioner for Wales.
Read MoreResponse to M4 report findings: Building future communities with clean, affordable and accessible transport
“The debate around the future of the chronically congested M4 has been too much about the needs of the car and not enough about the needs of the people of South East Wales and our environment.
Read MoreIt takes a village...
I’m fortunate to have a job where I see lots of people doing lots of amazing things (occasionally the reverse too) but a project that I visited whilst in Austin Texas as part of the US Embassy’s International Visitor Leadership Programme last week has got to be up there with one of the best
Read MoreClear action and resources must match commitment in reducing carbon emissions says Future Generations Commissioner for Wales
I am pleased that the Welsh Government’s declaration of a Climate Emergency echo’s the urgency of the Committees recommendations but we now need to see clear action and allocation of resources to match this commitment
Read More#skillsseptember - A Ddylai Robotiad Siarad Cymraeg? (Should robots speak Welsh?)
During the Summer, we hosted our first event at the National Eisteddfod in Cardiff Bay. The subject of debate was, 'Should robots speak Welsh?' Here are the reflections of Meilys and Indeg who sat on the panel.
Read MoreFuture Generations Commissioner and Cardiff University join forces
The Office of the Future Generations Commissioner for Wales and Cardiff University have formally joined forces to work on shared strategic goals.
Read MoreThe vital role of the arts in ensuring the well-being of future generations
As we celebrated our National Patron Saint’s Day last week, we were reminded of our country’s strong cultural identity and affinity with the arts
Read MoreCymru Can: our Vision and Purpose
Cymru Can sets out our new strategy for 2023 – 2030 and our long-term vision.
Read MoreFuture Generations Commissioner for Wales publishes ten point plan to fund Wales’ climate emergency
Sophie Howe, Future Generations Commissioner for Wales: “In previous and current budgets the Welsh Government spend has been around 1% on decarbonisation which is nowhere near enough to fund the challenges that a climate emergency presents.
Read More#TransportOctober Roqib Monsur nextbike Ambassador explains why cycling is the best way to get around Cardiff
Since the bike-sharing scheme launched in Cardiff earlier this year, I was one of the people that took advantage of the scheme and began travelling using the nextbike for my everyday travels across the city. After using them a few times, I started raving about it to my friends and family, or anyone who would listen, and getting them to use it too.
Read MoreHome is where well-being begins
The links between tackling our housing crisis and the nation's health are growing.
Read MoreFuture Generations Commissioner for Wales announces paid leave for staff fleeing domestic abuse
To mark International Women’s Day, Sophie Howe, Future Generations Commissioner for Wales has announced a new staff policy that provides support and paid leave to staff who are victims of domestic abuse so that they can leave the abuse and secure safe accommodation.
Read MoreCardiff Transport Green Paper
In response to Cardiff Council's Transport Green Paper, published Wednesday, 21 March and the start of a city-wide conversation on big ideas that could shape the future of Cardiff's transport system.
Read More"After Black History Month – let’s make sure 2021 is the year that what we’ve learned really sticks"
And although many things have changed since growing up as a mixed-race kid in Cardiff in the 80s, I feel there is a great deal to improve upon - and this is a job that we can all get involved in together.
Read MoreTravelling Stateside
Just over a year ago, not long after taking up my post as Future Generations Commissioner for Wales, I was approached by the American Embassy to ask if I would be interested in participating in their International Visitor Leadership Programme.
Read More“Urgent CCC report calls for faster and smarter work on the climate emergency,” says Future Generations Commissioner for Wales.
The Future Generations Commissioner for Wales says the Climate Change Committee’s findings that Welsh Government is not on track to meet its climate emissions targets make ‘urgent’ reading.
Read MoreFuture Generations Commissioner for Wales endorses Urdd peace and goodwill message
This message, created by the young people of mid Glamorgan embodies much of the Well-being of Future Generations Act.
Read MoreFor Belle and Emmeline
This Sunday my daughter and I will be taking part in something significant. We will be joining thousands of women across the country marching to commemorate the brave women who came before us 100 years ago who marched, campaigned, starved and even died to get us the vote.
Read MoreImplementation and Impact
We will make it our mission to ensure the Well-being of Future Generations Act is applied effectively and with ambition in a way that improves the lives of the people of Wales now and in the future.
Read MoreCommunities' voices put centre stage to boost lives of future generations
The voices of some of Wales’ most under-represented communities have been put at the heart of a new way to create climate and nature emergency policy to benefit future generations.
Read MoreWales is failing to fund a climate emergency
“We have recently declared a climate emergency in Wales but are failing to take the action at the scale or pace needed to meet our carbon emission targets. The impact of climate change is already evident in Wales with 23% of our coastline being eroded because of rising sea water as well as the risk of losing 1 in 14 of our wildlife species. Yet it is still our younger generations who are leading the debate and holding governments to account on their lack of action to combat climate change,” said Sophie Howe, Future Generations Commissioner for Wales.
Read MoreInequality in a Future Wales
The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted new challenges for the people of Wales. It has affected the health and well-being of individuals and communities and impacted on wider areas such as how we work and the availability of jobs. These impacts however have not been felt equally.
Read MoreEducation Fit for the Future in Wales Report
The Education Fit for the Future in Wales report, authored by Professor Calvin Jones (Cardiff Business School) in collaboration with the Future Generations Commissioner for Wales, is a White Paper for discussion that calls for us to match the skills needed in the future with our education and qualifications system in Wales.
Read MoreFirst delegates of the Future Generations Leadership Academy announced
The Future Generations Commissioner for Wales is pleased to announce the names of the first cohort of young people to participate in the Future Generations Leadership Academy.
Read MoreRequest for Proposals: Wales’ Well-being of Future Generations Act – showing what’s possible
As part of our duty to promote the sustainable development principle, the Future Generations Commissioner for Wales, Sophie Howe, is seeking an agency to create and deliver a PR campaign to promote the sustainable development principle to a range of new audiences.
Read MoreMy journey one year on
April 1st marked the first anniversary of the Well-being of Future Generations Act coming into place.
Read MoreCardiff Council vote to divest pensions from fossil fuels is part of a growing movement in Wales
In response to Cardiff Council's vote to divest pensions from fossil fuels Thursday, 18th July, Sophie Howe, Future Generations Commissioner for Wales said:
Read MoreThe story of a small town with well-being at its heart
Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank, 1984 by George Orwell and the complete works of Shakespeare are some of the books that have shaped the way we think, inspired change and left an indelible mark on future generations.
Read MoreOur obsession with exams is failing to equip young people with the right skills for the future, says Future Generations Commissioner for Wales
Education fit for the Future A White Paper For discussion Produced by Professor Calvin Jones in collaboration with the Future Generations Commissioner for Wales
Read More#InternationalWomen'sDay: My experience as an apprentice in the FGC office – Hollie Leslie
My experience as an apprentice with the Office for Future Generations Commissioner
Read MorePublic sector must stop funding climate change say Welsh organisations and Future Generations Commissioner for Wales
Friends of the Earth Cymru, Sophie Howe, Future Generations Commissioner for Wales and other environment, development and trade union groups are calling on all public sector bodies in Wales to stop investing in climate-wrecking fossil fuel companies.
Read MoreFuture Generations Commissioner for Wales calls on Welsh Government to be brave in its investment on transport as new report shows lack of ambition in M4 Black route proposal
A new report published today by the Future Generations Commissioner for Wales, Sophie Howe shows how Wales could transform its transport system by investing in public transport, active travel and ensuring delivery of all phases of the South Wales Metro with the £1.4bn currently earmarked for the M4 Black Route.
Read More#PlanningMarch - Insights into the skills and mindset of a planner by Phil Williams
Having spent over 40 years as a local government planner, I am now a planning director in my own consultancy practice.
Read MoreBlack History Month: “People of the Caribbean have a deep history with agriculture that is often overlooked.”
“I’ve always had a love for nature, and I gravitated towards it. Nature taught me what society wasn’t willing to."
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