What is the status of Northern Ireland's Environmental Improvement Plan?

The first annual progress report indicates advancements across all six strategic objectives of the plan, though significant challenges remain.

What are the main challenges facing Northern Ireland's environment?

Key challenges include excess nutrients affecting water quality and a slower-than-needed biodiversity recovery, alongside a need for sustained investment.

What achievements have been made under the Environmental Improvement Plan?

Achievements include strengthened environmental monitoring, improved marine protection, peatland restoration, woodland creation, and a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.

Home / Environment / N. Ireland Environment Plan Shows Progress, Challenges Remain

N. Ireland Environment Plan Shows Progress, Challenges Remain

28 Jan

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Summary

First annual report shows progress on six environmental objectives.
Serious challenges and need for sustained investment persist.
Water quality issues and slow biodiversity recovery are noted.

N. Ireland Environment Plan Shows Progress, Challenges Remain

Northern Ireland's first annual progress report on its Environmental Improvement Plan (EIP) indicates advancements across all six strategic objectives. Published in September 2024, the EIP aims for excellent air, water, and land quality; healthy landscapes; thriving nature; sustainable production; a zero-waste economy; and net-zero emissions.

Achievements noted include strengthened environmental monitoring, improved marine protection, and progress in peatland restoration and woodland creation. Legislation for Packaging Extended Producer Responsibility was introduced in December 2024. Greenhouse gas emissions have fallen by 31.5% below 1990 levels.

Despite these gains, serious challenges persist. Excess nutrients from agriculture and other sources continue to impact water quality, and biodiversity is not recovering at the required pace. The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs has emphasized the need for sustained investment and coordinated action.