How can place-based working contribute to a well-being economy and environmental goals in Wales?

Report

This research report is written to highlight the opportunities presented by place-based governance, and how it can contribute to achieving social and environmental goals. It reflects the commitments of the national Well-being Goals and Well-being Economy governments alliance in terms of social and ecological justice, environmental responsibility, sustainable food and farming, and the transition to a well-being economy. While focused on Wales, with particular reference Welsh legislation, governance structures and case-studies, the report also highlights relevant ‘lessons learned’ across the UK and beyond. It is intended for policymakers, political advisers and decision-makers across public, private and third sectors who are seeking credible, evidence-based ways to deliver integrated outcomes in practice while connecting national and local ambitions. The report has been developed as part of an Agile Initiative Sprint project (June 2025-July 2026), ‘How can we deliver effective, equitable and place-based environmental governance’, led by researchers at the University of Oxford and Scotland’s Rural College. Invaluable input and feedback came from project partners working in Welsh Government, but the final report has been prepared by academic researchers in an independent capacity, and any views expressed are those of the authors alone, and any errors or omissions the sole responsibility of the authors. The authors do not represent any political party, and the views expressed here do not necessarily reflect those of any political organisation.

Authors: Hafferty, C; Boddy, C; Hirons, M; Lynch, J; Gearey, R

• Publication status: Published
• Publisher: Agile Initiative, University of Oxford
• Place of publication: Oxford, UK
• Publication date: 2026-07-21
• DOI: 10.5287/ora-zrpvxz0rw
• Language: English
• Keywords: sustainability; place-based; economy; governance; wellbeing; Wales; environment; policy