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Wales is on course to miss its target to slash greenhouse gas emissions by 2020, a report warns.

The Committee on Climate Change says emissions in Wales rose by 10.3% between 2012 and 2013, owing to an increase in emissions from steelworks in Wales and a change from gas to coal in power generation.

The committee, an independent body that advises the UK Government, said: “Wales has a target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 40% from 1990 levels by 2020.

Targets 'likely to be missed'

"In 2013, emissions were 12% lower than in 1990 (compared to 30% for the UK). On the basis of progress to date, the 40% target by 2020 is likely to be missed.”

These figures show the second year in a row that carbon emissions in Wales rose.

The Committee advised the Welsh Government to develop a heat strategy, consider voluntary partnership agreements with industry and implement further measures to make electric cars a more viable option, such as supporting up-front costs and introducing priority parking.

(Image: Porthcawl First)

Jessica McQuade of WWF Cymru said: “It is extremely regrettable that emission levels in Wales have risen by 10% – especially when compared to other devolved nations such as Scotland, where emission levels have declined.

"The main reason for the rise in Welsh emissions is the power sector. The Welsh Government must manage this relationship – including requiring higher ambition of industry – or else it will fail to meet its target of a 40% reduction”.

Welsh Govt: Heavy industry to blame

A Welsh Government spokesman said: “The increase is largely driven by emissions from heavy industry covered by the EU Emissions Trading Scheme (EU-ETS) and a shift from natural gas to coal use in power stations.

"Both of these areas are non-devolved to Wales, but they highlight the need to ensure that the EU-ETS and the decarbonisation of electricity generation is fully effective.

"The figures also further highlight the weaknesses in current UK Government energy policy and the decision to end support for on-shore wind.

“The Welsh Government remains committed to accelerating action in Wales and have strengthened our policies in this regard, as demonstrated by the proposals for statutory climate change targets and carbon budgeting contained in the Environment (Wales) Bill.”