What if Wales' future flourishing depends on more than traditional economic development?

Roads, homes, businesses, schools and hospitals all matter. But so do healthy rivers, thriving wildlife, clean air and resilient landscapes. Without them, the foundations that support our health, economy and quality of life begin to weaken and we lose a wealth that goes beyond money.

It's a question explored in Natural Resources Wales' most comprehensive assessment of the environment, bringing together evidence on the condition of our natural resources and the role they play in supporting our health, wellbeing and prosperity.

It’s called State of Natural Resources Report, or SoNaRR.

In this episode, we scratch the surface of this big report, and it’s even bigger ideas. We explore how nature supports our health and wellbeing, why restoring the environment makes economic sense, and what it would take to build a Wales where people and nature can thrive together.

In a trial of the available technology, the voices in this episode are AI generated. The content of the episode is based on the report and has been drafted and adapted by expert officers.

We also delve into Bridges to the Future, the report's boldest chapter, which argues that Wales already has much of the evidence, legislation and ambition it needs. The challenge now is turning that ambition into action.

Because this isn't simply a conversation about the environment. It's a conversation about the kind of Wales we want to leave to future generations.

So cross the bridges with us. Explore the evidence, challenge assumptions, and discover why investing in nature may be one of the most important investments Wales can make in its future.

This isn’t your everyday podcast episode. It’s the audio companion to an information panel along the River Alwen, a tributary of the River Dee in North Wales. Whether you’re listening from home or standing by the water, this short recording brings the story of river restoration to life.

Join Joel Rees-Jones, LIFE Dee River Project Manager, as he reveals the fascinating lifecycle of the critically endangered freshwater pearl mussel and the ambitious conservation work happening in the Afon Dyfrdwy a Llyn Tegid Special Area of Conservation. These mussels still cling to survival in the River Dee, but poor water quality and habitat loss mean no young mussels are emerging naturally - a challenge the project is determined to overcome.

To give these mussels a fighting chance, the project is using pearl mussels raised in the Natural Resources Wales hatchery, aiming to restore self-sustaining populations. The project has also removed and adapted weirs to help fish move freely, which is vital for the mussel’s lifecycle, and carried out a host of improvements to habitats and water quality. This guide also explores how deeply connected river life is in this special landscape.

In the final episode of Cyfoeth: The Natural Resources Wales Environment Podcast series on the Ceredigion Environment Team, host Llion Bevan is joined by conservation officer Emma Ivinson to explore an unusual conservation challenge—protecting habitats that have emerged from abandoned metal mines.

While these mines are a well-known source of pollution, leaching toxic heavy metals into rivers and impacting ecosystems, they have also become home to some of the rarest and most specialised species in the UK. Emma explains how certain lichens, mosses, and plants—some found nowhere else in the world—have adapted to these extreme conditions, making old mining sites vital for conservation.

The conversation also delves into the legacy of metal mining in Wales, the threats these sites pose to water quality, and how the Wales Metal Mines Programme is working to reduce pollution while preserving the ecological and historical value of these landscapes. Cwmystwyth Mine, a site of both European conservation significance and industrial heritage, serves as a key case study, with efforts underway to clean its waters while safeguarding its rare species.

Balancing conservation, pollution mitigation, and heritage preservation is no easy task, but this episode highlights how NRW is navigating these complexities. If you’re curious about the surprising ways nature can reclaim human-altered landscapes—or how history and ecology intertwine—this episode is a must-listen.

In this episode of Cyfoeth: The Natural Resources Wales Environment Podcast, host Llion continues the series on the Ceredigion Environment Team with an exploration of Rhos Pastures, a fascinating yet endangered habitat that is bursting with rare plant and invertebrate species. Joining Llion is a conservation officer in the team, Emma Ivinson, who sheds light on the critical work being done to conserve these biodiversity hotspots.

Emma introduces us to Rhos Pastures, highlighting their rich species diversity, including the threatened Marsh Fritillary butterfly. Once common, this iconic butterfly has suffered dramatic declines due to habitat loss and fragmentation. Discover how Rhos Pastures serve as crucial lifelines for these butterflies and host a stunning variety of plants, including orchids and Devil’s-bit Scabious, alongside a myriad of insects.

The conversation delves into the challenges faced by Rhos Pastures, including the impact of agricultural changes that have led to a 97% loss of semi-natural grasslands since the 1930s. Emma explains how NRW works with landowners to manage these habitats through tailored grazing practices, scrub control, and conservation-friendly funding agreements.

The episode also explores the threats posed by climate change, which disrupts the delicate balance of species that rely on Rhos Pastures. With insights from recent surveys, Emma highlights both successes and setbacks in efforts to protect the Marsh Fritillary, underscoring the importance of long-term habitat connectivity and resilience.

This episode offers a compelling look at how conservation efforts are making a difference, even against the backdrop of significant challenges. Tune in to learn how NRW is safeguarding this vital habitat and its inhabitants, and be inspired by Emma’s passion for the natural beauty of Wales. Don’t miss this insightful and uplifting journey into the heart of Ceredigion’s wild landscapes.

In this episode of Cyfoeth: The Natural Resources Wales Environment Podcast, host Llion continues the Climate Mitigation and Adaptation miniseries by exploring adaptation strategies with Harrhy James and Dr. Lucia Watts, Climate Risk and Adaptation Advisors at NRW.

The episode builds on the previous discussion about mitigation by focusing on how NRW is preparing  for the present and future effects of climate change, such as extreme weather events, sea-level rise, and habitat shifts.

The guests share their personal journeys into the field and how these experiences inform their work in making Wales more climate-resilient.

Lucia and Harrhy explain that adaptation is essential to reduce climate-related risks to both people and nature. They provide practical examples, such as creating urban green spaces, growing climate resilient trees for the future and implementing coastal measures to combat "coastal squeeze." 

The episode also highlights the launch of NRW’s first adaptation plan, which outlines 50 strategic actions designed to enhance community resilience, improve natural habitats, and integrate climate considerations into planning and regulation.

The episode concludes with reflections on what inspires Lucia and Harrhy in their roles, emphasising the importance of integrating science with real-world applications to safeguard Wales’ future.

Welcome to the first part of our two-episode miniseries exploring how we at Natural Resources Wales is addressing the climate crisis. 

In this episode, host Llion is joined by Mefty Haider, Specialist Adviser on Climate Change and Decarbonisation, for a deep dive into mitigation efforts – the actions we take to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and limit future climate change.

Mefty shares his fascinating journey into environmental work, from witnessing climate-driven hardships in Bangladesh to becoming a key officer in NRW’s Climate Change and Decarbonisation Team. 

Together, they unpack the ambitious NRW Net Zero Plan, which includes reducing emissions by 35% by 2030 and a long-term goal of 90% by 2050. Discover the strategies behind the plan, such as transitioning to electric fleets, improving energy efficiency in buildings, and decarbonising NRW’s supply chain.

Mefty also highlights how NRW is tackling emissions from its operations, including forestry and peatland management, while addressing challenges like contractor limitations and the complexity of supply chain emissions.

This episode offers a detailed yet accessible look at the challenges and opportunities in mitigating climate change. Tune in to learn how NRW is driving systemic change while empowering staff and partners to make a tangible difference. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation—it’s a must-listen for anyone passionate about sustainable living and climate action.

Join us for an immersive journey along the Afon Teifi in Episode Four of our series focussing on NRW’s Ceredigion Environment Team.

Guided by Jon Turner, a senior conservation officer with over 25 years of experience on the Teifi, we explore the river’s diverse habitats, rich wildlife, and the dedicated conservation efforts that safeguard this vital natural resource.

Starting at the river’s source in the remote Elenydd Uplands, Jon takes us downstream, revealing fascinating stories and details. From the rare Floating Water Plantain in the upland lakes to the sprawling Cors Caron bogs and the rare aquatic life of the lowland stretches, every bend of the Teifi tells a tale. Discover why this river holds European significance as an SAC (Special Area of Conservation), supporting special flora and fauna like Atlantic Salmon, lampreys, and the multi-fruited river moss.

Learn how NRW conservation officers collaborate with farmers, anglers, and local communities to balance ecological needs with everyday life, and get a firsthand look at NRW’s projects aimed at improving water quality and tackling invasive non-native species. 

Hear about the striking gorges near Cenarth, known for their dramatic landscapes and seasonal salmon jumps, and the vibrant Teifi Marshes where otters and kingfishers thrive.

This episode is more than just a narrative; it’s an invitation to appreciate the intricate relationship between conservation, community, and natural wonder. If you’re passionate about wildlife, rivers, or the unique challenges of preserving such environments, this episode is not to be missed. 

Tune in, and see why this river keeps conservationists like Jon inspired every day.

In the third episode of our series on the Ceredigion Environment Team, we explore the crucial work being done to protect water quality in Ceredigion rivers. 

Llion is joined by Bethan Lewis, an NRW Environment Officer, who explains how she started working in the environment team, and the role of the team itself. She explains how the team ensures that water companies, farms and private water treatment - such as septic tanks – do not damage the environment and goes on to explain what happens if a river is being polluted.

Tune in for a personal and insightful look at the work behind maintaining healthy waterways in Ceredigion.

Links from the episode:

·       Register your septic tank or small sewage (package) treatment plant

·       Report an environmental incident

Episode 2: Ceredigion Environment Team and Bathing Waters

In this episode of Cyfoeth, Llion talks with Ffion Quan, an Environment Officer at Natural Resources Wales (NRW), about her role and the critical work being done to monitor and maintain bathing water quality along the Ceredigion coastline. Ffion shares her journey from a geography enthusiast in secondary school to her current role at NRW, highlighting her initial work as a Waste Regulation Officer and her transition to focusing on bathing water quality.

The discussion covers the definition and importance of designated bathing waters, the seasonal monitoring process, and the criteria for classification. Ffion explains the significance of parameters like E coli and Intestinal Enterococci, the role of predictive models in water quality assessment, and how NRW handles both temporary and ongoing pollution issues. The episode also touches on the collaboration between different NRW teams and how the public can access detailed water quality data.

Tune in to learn more about the efforts to ensure safe and clean bathing waters in Ceredigion.

Links to mentioned resources and websites:

·       Check bathing water quality

·       Information about Keep Wales Tidy’s coastal awards

Welcome to Cyfoeth: The Natural Resources Wales Environment Podcast and to our new series exploring the vital work of the Ceredigion Environment Team. 

In our first episode, we focus on the team’s response to environmental incidents. 

Join us for an insightful journey into the critical role this dedicated team plays within NRW. Learn how they are structured to respond effectively to various environmental emergencies. 

We’ll take you behind the scenes to understand what it’s like to when team members are abruptly called to action. From the urgent initial notification to arriving on site, you'll get an inside look at the meticulous process of identifying and addressing pollution sources. 

This episode showcases not only how the team responds to environmental emergencies, but also highlights the passion and expertise that drive the staff in the Ceredigion Environment Team. Their unwavering commitment to protecting the wildlife and beautiful landscapes of Ceredigion is truly inspiring. 

Tune in to witness first-hand the dedication and skill that go into safeguarding our environment, and gain a deeper appreciation for the every-day people working tirelessly behind the scenes.