Draft Environment Strategy

Draft Environment Strategy for Northern Ireland

Environment Strategyfor Northern Ireland

Draft


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Contents1.Foreword 4

2. Strategic Context 6

A. Sustainability 9

B.GlobalClimate&BiodiversityAction 11

C.GreenGrowthStrategy 11

D.EnvironmentalGovernance&Co-operation 12

E.Agriculture&Environment 14

F.MarineEnvironment 15

G.Built&HistoricEnvironment 15

3.OurNaturalEnvironment 17

4.NaturalCapital 18

5. Strategic Environmental Outcomes 20

Strategic Environmental Outcome 1 22 Excellent Air, Water, Land & Neighbourhood Quality

Strategic Environmental Outcome 2 33 Healthy&AccessibleEnvironment&Landscapes Everyone Can Connect With & Enjoy

Strategic Environmental Outcome 3 45 Thriving, Resilient & Connected Nature & Wildlife

Strategic Environmental Outcome 4 52 SustainableProduction&ConsumptionOnLand&AtSea

Strategic Environmental Outcome 5 63 ZeroWaste&HighlyDevelopedCircularEconomy

Strategic Environmental Outcome 6 69 Fair Contribution To UK Net Zero GHG Emissions &ImprovedClimateResilience&Adaptability

6.DepartmentalActivities 71

7.NextSteps 74

8.HowToRespond 75

9.ConfidentialityofConsultations 76

Annex A - Public Discussion Exercise 77


1. Foreword

It is no exaggeration to say that never before have we faced such environmental challenges as those which confront us today.Onaglobalscaleourworldisunderunprecedentedpressurefrompopulationgrowth,theimpactoffossilfuelsandunsustainableliving.Theimpactsofclimatechangesuchasrisingsealevels,droughtsandwildfiresposearealrisktoour communities and livelihoods across the world. Locally, our environmentisunderthreatfrompollutioninitsmanyforms.

Actionisrequiredifwearetorealisticallyrespondtothechallengesofclimatechange,thedestructionofhabitats,thelossofbiodiversityandtheimpactsofpollutiononlandandatsea,includingplasticpollution.Meetinganddealingwiththesechallengesissomethingthatcanonlybeachievedthroughglobalcooperationintandemwithlocal,grassrootsinitiatives.Weallhavearesponsibilityinmeetingthesechallengesanditisincumbentonallofustoprotectandpreserveourlocalenvironmentaswestrivetoprotectandpreserveourplanetforfuturegenerations.AgainstthisbackgrounditismyprivilegetolaunchtheNorthernIrelandExecutive’sEnvironmentStrategy.BuildingonthepublicdiscussionexerciseundertakenbymyDepartmentin2019/20(AnnexA),thisStrategysetsoutavisionforthefutureofNorthernIreland’senvironmentandtheExecutive’sroleindealingwiththechallengesweface.

Ourenvironmentaffectseveryaspectofourexistence.Itiscentraltoalllife,whatwedo,whatweeat,howwework,whereweliveandplay,itisunquestionablyourmostpreciousasset.ThisStrategysetsoutourplansforprotectingourlocalenvironmentbymakingsustainablelivingcentraltoeveryaspectofourlivesinthecomingdecades.

In the last decade we have made some notable advances in tackling local environmental issues -perhapsforemostinthepublic’smindwouldbethesuccessfulintroductionofthecarrierbaglevyandtheremarkableriseinourhouseholdrecyclingratestoover50%in2019/20.OnbehalfoftheExecutive,DAERAisleadingindevelopingtheover-arching,multi-decadeGreenGrowthStrategy,theaimofwhichistotransformoursocietybyprotectingandenhancingtheenvironment, transitioning to a more sustainable economy which is fair and just and making our contributiontoUK‘netzero’greenhousegasemissionsby2050.TheEnvironmentStrategywillbeakeypillarinthedeliveryofGreenGrowth.

ThisStrategysetsoutsixStrategicEnvironmentalOutcomes(SEOs)whichencompassallofthe main environmental challenges we will face in the coming decades. These SEOs will form thebasisofhowNorthernIrelandfacesuptothechallengesofimprovingourenvironmentandourabilitytoconnectwith,understandandenjoythatenvironmentinaresponsibleway.Theyprovideuswithaframeworktofosterenvironmentalawarenessandengagementthrougheducationandtoliveinharmonywithourenvironmentthatprovidesuswithahome,alivelihood


andsomewheretorelax.Inshort,thisStrategyisaguidetohowwecanpreserve,protectandimproveourenvironmentforourchildrenandourgrandchildren.

TheStrategyisanopen-ended,livingdocumentthatwillbesupportedbyaseriesofactionplansandtargetsanditconfirmsourenvironmentalprioritiesforthecomingdecades.Therewillbecostsassociatedwithmanyoftheproposedactionstoachievetherequiredoutcomeswhichwill require adequate funding through a variety of mechanisms. I and my Executive colleagues willworktoensurethatNorthernIrelandhasthenecessaryresourcestotacklethesignificantenvironmental challenges we face.

ItisenvisagedthatthisStrategywillbeadoptedasNorthernIreland’sfirst‘Environmental Improvement Plan’which,subjecttotheapprovaloftheNIAssembly,willbeastatutoryrequirement under the future UK Environment Act, setting the Strategy in a legal context and puttinginplaceastatutoryrequirementtomonitorenvironmentalprogressagainsttheStrategyonanannualbasis.Recognisingthis,sections3and4ofthisplanprovideamorespecificfocuson natural environment issues

Asweemergeintothepost-Covid19world,outsideoftheEuropeanUnion,morethaneverweneedtobepreparedtofacetheenvironmentalchallengesoftodayandthoseoftomorrow.Everyoneofuscollectivelyandindividually,hasanimportantroleinhowwemanage,preserveandprotectourlocalenvironment.Ifweallplayourpartandareambitiouswithourplanswecanmakeathriving,sustainableenvironmentarealityhereanddemonstrateleadershiponthiscrucial issue.

Edwin Poots MLA

Issued on behalf of the Executive


2. Strategic Context

NorthernIrelandfacesarangeoflocalenvironmentalchallengesincludinghabitatandspeciesloss,greenhousegasemissions,climatechange,wastemanagement,thedevelopmentofacirculareconomy,soilquality,airquality,wastecrime,etc.Inaddition,theUnitedKingdom’swithdrawalfromtheEuropeanUnionprovidesnewenvironmentalopportunitiesand,asenvironmentaldegradationposesanincreasingchallengetoallpartsofourglobe,thereisaclearimpetusforthefirstlong-term,over-archingEnvironmentStrategyforNorthernIreland.

NorthernIreland’sfirstEnvironmentStrategywillformthebasisforacoherentandeffectivesetofinterventionsthatcandeliverrealimprovementsinthequalityoftheenvironmentandthereby:improvethehealthandwell-beingofallwholiveandworkhere;createopportunitiestodevelopoureconomy;elevateNorthernIrelandtoanenvironmentalleader;andenableustoplayourpartinprotectingtheglobalenvironmentformanydecadestocome.

Partofthestrategyidentifieswhatwehaveachieved,wherewearenow,andwhatstrategicinitiativesarealreadyinplaceandhowthesecanbeenhancedthroughnewapproachestotheissues we face going forward.

ThenewProgrammeforGovernment(PfG)OutcomeswillprovidethestrategicbackdropanddriversforthehugerangeofactivitiesundertakenbyNorthernIrelanddepartments.TheEnvironment Strategy seeks to build on the valuable work that has been, and continues to be, doneacrossawiderangeofrelevantpolicyareas,takingasitsstartingpointthecommitmentcontainedwithinthedraftPfGOutcome(asconsulteduponin2021):“Weliveandworksustainably-protectingtheenvironment.”

DAERAhasbeenworkingwithstakeholdersandacrossNorthernIrelandExecutivedepartmentstodevelopstrategicoutcomestosupportthepremisethatabetterenvironmentcanprovidegreateconomic,socialandhealthbenefitsforindividualsandforsociety,andoutlineapathwaytorealisingthesebenefits.UnderpinningthisongoingworkisDAERA’sScienceStrategyFramework, which guides and directs how DAERA utilises science in delivering services andoptimisesthevalueDAERAachievesfromscience,deliveringpositiveimpactsforourenvironment.

TheEnvironmentStrategyformspartoftheExecutive’swiderGreenGrowthagendaand,forthemostpart,isintendedtobeahigh-level,Executive-endorsedstrategythatwillsitalongsidebothnewandexistingstrategies.Figure1outlinesmajorExecutiveanddepartmentalstrategies,relevantdepartmentalstrategiesandprogrammeswithenvironmentalelements/interfaces,actionplansandsomeofthekeylinkagesbetweenthese.

For a high-level Environment Strategy to be meaningful it is essential that it is ambitious in termsofitsbreadthanddepth.TheStrategyaimstofocusonambitiousoutcomesforthebigenvironmental issues facing us that will make a difference to the lives and well-being of current and future generations.


Enhancing our environment matters, as a healthy environment is interlinked with our health andwell-being.Whatwedoandhowwedoitimpactsonthelivesandneedsofourcurrentandfuturegenerations.Longtermplanningisessentialtoinfluenceanddeliverthenecessaryprotectionandenhancementofournaturalandculturalcapitalandtoensureitslongtermfuturefor those generations who will inherit it from us.

Thefollowingsub-sectionsprovidesomefurtherdetailonthekeystrategicdriversunderpinningthe Environment Strategy.


International RelationsStrategy

Social Inclusion

Strategies^

Public Health Strategy:

Making Lives Better

Water Strategy ‘Sustainable

Water’

Housing Supply Strategy

Green Growth Strategy

Environment Strategy

Energy Strategy

Sustainable Development

Strategy

10X Economic

Vision 1

Programme for Government 2021

Green Growth Foundation

Programmes

Climate Action Plan: Climate Change Mitigation

& Decarbonisation

2

3

DAERA International Action Plan

Marine Plan for NI

Eliminate Plastic

Pollution Plan

Efficient Farming GHG

Implementation Plan

Historic Environment

Sectoral Delivery Plan

Local Development

PlansAction Plans

DAERA 30 Year Plan

Circular Economy Strategic

Framework

State Care Monument Investment Programme

Historic Environment

Culture, Arts & Heritage Strategy

Planning

Regional Development

Strategy

Future Landscape Strategy

Forestry Strategy

Land

River Basin Management

Plans

LWWP Strategic Drainage

Infrastructure Plans

Water

Clean Air Strategy

Air

Future Agricultural

Policy Framework

SALMS*

Nutrient Action Plan

Draft Ammonia Strategy

Agriculture

New Biodiversity

Strategy

Draft Peatland Strategy

Biodiversity

Strategy for Marine

Protected Areas

Marine Litter Strategy

Inshore Fisheries

Statement

Joint Fisheries Statement

UK Marine/ Fisheries Strategy

Regulatory Transformation

Programme

Regulatory Transformation

Waste Management

Strategy

Circular Economy

Climate Change Adaptation Programme

Climate Change

1

2

3

Major Executive/ Departmental Strategies

Major Policy Areas

Departmental Strategies & Programmes

^- Anti-Poverty- Disability- Gender Equality- LGBTQI+- Active Ageing

*Sustainable Agricultural Land Management Strategy

Outdoor Recreation Action Plan

Line 1 is not an exhaustive list of strategies and it in no way represents any form of hierarchical structure.

Figure 1: Strategy Map


A. SustainabilityTheUnitedNationsSustainableDevelopmentGoals(SDGs)areacallforactionbyallcountriestopromoteprosperitywhileprotectingtheplanet.Theyrecognizethatendingpovertymustgohand-in-hand with strategies that build economic growth and address a range of social needs includingeducation,health,socialprotection,andjobopportunities,whiletacklingclimatechangeandprotectingtheenvironment.

TheEnvironmentStrategyaimstolinkeachsetofproposedactionsandtargetstoimproveourenvironmenttotherelevantSDGs.The17SDGsaredetailedinFigure2.


Figure 2: United Nations Sustainable Development Goals

Azote for Stockholm Resilience Centre, Stockholm University.


B. Global Climate & Biodiversity ActionIn committing to action under the UN SDGs:, the UK is signatory to a number of international agreementsontheenvironment,manyofwhichunderpinourlocalstrategies,policyandlegislationinNorthernIreland.AnumberofspecificInternationalagreementsguideourlocalresponseandactionstoaddressglobalconcernsonclimatechangeandsustainableuseofbiological diversity in our natural environment, both on land and at sea.

TheConventiononBiologicalDiversity(CBD)andassociatedAichitargetsshapethecurrentNIBiodiversityStrategy2015-2020andthedraftPeatlandStrategywhichwillsupporttheEnvironmentStrategy.TheConventiononBiodiversityCOP15conferencein2022iscrucialtothedevelopmentofthepost-2020globalbiodiversityframeworkandwilldirectournewBiodiversityStrategy2030andaccompanyingtargetsandactionsforconserving,protectingandenhancing biological diversity in our natural environment ecosystems both on land and at sea. Inthesameperiod,theCOP26summitisbringinginternationalpartiestogethertoaccelerateaction on climate change.

TheEnvironmentStrategywillthereforeprovideacoherentresponsetotheglobalchallengesofclimatechangeandbiodiversitylossaddressedbythesepost-2020internationalagreements,andtheopportunitytoaligntheactionsandmeasuresneededtoaddressbiodiversityandclimate simultaneously.

C. Green Growth StrategyTheGreenGrowthStrategyistheExecutive’soverarchingmulti-decadeplanforbalancingclimate,theenvironmentandoureconomy.Itwillinvolveallpartsofgovernmentandwidersocietyworkingincollaborationfrompolicydevelopmenttodelivery.1

TheEnvironmentStrategywillbeoneofthemainstrategiesunderpinningGreenGrowth.Whileotherstrategies will contribute more to the Green Growth aim regarding net zero carbon and a sustainable economy,theEnvironmentStrategyprovidesthefocusforconservingandenhancingournaturalenvironment for the coming decades. The Environment Strategy and Green Growth Strategy are alignedandcomplementary.

Intacklingclimatechange,theExecutiveisadoptingaGreenGrowthapproach-thismeanslookingat climate action more holistically and considering it in the context of jobs and the environment. Itmeansusingthemovefromahightoalowgreenhousegasemissionseconomytoalsoimprovepeople’squalityoflifethroughgreenjobsandacleanenvironment.

1 https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/consultations/consultation-draft-green-growth-strategy-northern-ireland


D. Environmental Governance & Co-operationEnvironmental Governance

Environmentalgovernanceisaboutmakingappropriatedecisionsontheenvironmentaloutcomesweareseekingtoachieveandtheeffectiveandefficientdeploymentofourlimitedresourcestoachievethoseoutcomes-takingastrategicapproachtotheenvironmentalchallengesthatwefacebothhereandontheglobalstage.ThisStrategywillplayakeyroleinthis regard.

TheNewDecade,NewApproachagreementincludesacommitmenttoestablishanindependentenvironmentalprotectionagency(IEPA).Whilstsuchabodycannotbecreatedovernight,considerationwillbegiventoappropriateoptionswhichwillallrequirerobusteconomicappraisaltodeterminethebestoptionforNorthernIreland.Theeconomicappraisalwillneedtoscopeallofthepotentialimpacts,includingsignificantlegislative,financialandhuman resource issues, before decisions can be made and an IEPA included in a future Programme for Government.

TheforthcomingUKEnvironmentAct(the‘Act’)coversawiderangeofenvironmentalmattersandsetstheagendaforenvironmentalgovernancenowthattheUKhaslefttheEuropeanUnion.ThecoreprovisionsoftheActarethe:

•establishmentoftheOfficeforEnvironmentalProtection(OEP),anewindependentenvironmentaloversightbodytoassumearolepreviouslyundertakenbytheEuropeanCommission;and

•preparation&publicationof:

-anEnvironmentalImprovementPlan(EIP)(itisintendedthatthisStrategywillbeadoptedasthefirstsuchplan);and

-apolicystatementonenvironmentalprinciples,towhichallNIdepartmentsandUKGovernmentMinistersmakingpolicyforNorthernIrelandmusthavedueregard.

AnEIPisdefinedintheActas:“a plan for significantly improving the natural environment”. It is notenoughthatitprotectstheenvironment,itmustbedesignedtomakeitbetterandDAERAisrequiredtosetoutthestepsNIdepartmentsintendtotaketoimprovetheenvironment.Theplanmayalsosetoutstepstoimprovepeople’senjoymentofthenaturalenvironment.

ThefirstEIPmustbepublishedwithin12monthsoftherelevantrequirementsbecominglawandDAERAmustpublishannualprogressreports.TheEIPmustbereviewed(andifnecessary,revised)withinfiveyearsofitspublication.DAERAmustalsoobtain(andpublish)appropriatedatainordertomonitorprogressonenvironmentalimprovement.


TheOEPwillbeindependentofboththeNIExecutiveandUKGovernmentandperformanumber of statutory functions:

• Monitoring & reporting on: (i)theEIP;and(ii)environmentallaw(EL);

• Handling complaints ofpublicauthorities(PAs)failingtocomplywithEL;

• Taking enforcement actionagainstPAs;and

• Advising on changes to NI EL.

TheOEPwillbetaskedwithholdinggovernmenttoaccountfortheproperimplementationofEL.TakingactionagainstindividualsorprivatebusinessesremainstheresponsibilityofNIEAandother enforcement agencies.

TheOEPisrequiredtomonitorprogressagainsttheEIPandpublishannualreportswithin6monthsofDAERA’sprogressreport.Itmayincludeconsiderationofhowprogresscouldbeimproved,andwhetherthedatapublishedbyDAERAisadequate.DAERAmustthenrespondtotheOEP’sannualreport,addressinganyrecommendationsmade.Thiswilldeliveranewrobustandindependentmechanismtomonitorenvironmentalimprovement,withreportspublishedandlaid before the NI Assembly.

Local/National/International Co-operation

Thestrategyseekstoadoptaholisticapproachbearinginmindthatenvironmentalissuesdonotrespectborders.Wesharethesameairandwateracrosstheseislandsandhavecommonlandscapes,habitatsandwildlifemovement.Thiswillrequireco-operationonaNorth/SouthbasisasasinglebiogeographicunitaswellasworkingonanEast/WestlevelwiththeotherUKadministrationstoassessandreportontheconditionofourbiodiversity,habitatsandspecies.

AspartoftheimplementationoftheEnvironmentStrategywewillseek,considerandshareinternationalknowledgeandbestpractice,andembracecollaborationwithinternationalpartners(includingtheotherconstituentnationsoftheUnitedKingdomandtheRepublicofIreland)todeliverimprovedbenefitsforNorthernIreland’senvironment.

SuccesswillbeachievedthroughpartnershipworkingbetweenDepartments,DistrictCouncils,community and voluntary organisations, business (including the agriculture sector) and environmentalNGOpartners.Suchpartnershipshavealreadyplayedacrucialroleinhelpingtoprotectourenvironmentandbuildingonthesewillbeessentialtoprotectandsignificantlyimproveourenvironmentintheyearsahead.


E. Agriculture & EnvironmentNorthernIrelandhasauniqueopportunitytoredefineitsagriculturalpolicyforthefirsttimeinalmost50years,withtheaimofdevelopingaframeworkthatisbettersuitedtolocalneedsandonethatwillunderpinlongtermsustainabilitywithintheindustry.Businessasusualformanyfarmswillnotbeanoption;thefutureisaboutdoingmorewithless,inasustainableandinnovativeway.Naturefriendlyfarmingiscentraltothis,andfuturepolicymustallowfarmerstohavethebestpossibletoolsattheirdisposaltodeliveronenvironmentaloutcomes.

Therewillbeastrongcentralroleforfutureagriculturalpolicymeasuresthatwilldeliverclearoutcomes.Airquality,waterquality,biodiversity,soilhealthandlandscapeareallheavilyinfluencedbyfarming.Ourenvironmentalchallengescanonlybeaddressedifagricultureandfarmersarepartofthesolution.Wemustjoinupourenvironmentalambitionswithfarmeconomicactivity,wheremanagementoftheenvironmentbecomesaprofitcentrewithinthefarm business rather than a cost centre.

Workisongoingwithfarmersaswellasfarmerandenvironmentalorganisationstodevelopfutureagriculturalpolicyandschemes.Schemestofacilitateecosystemrestoration,andtoaddressbiodiversityloss,andwaterandairqualityareunderconsiderationaspartofthispolicydevelopment.Thepotentialfornaturefriendlyfarmingtohaveapositiveimpactonthesuccessoffutureschemesisclearlyrecognised.Ensuringthatfarmersandlandownersaresupportedtodeliverenvironmentaloutcomeswillmakeasignificantcontributiontorestoringnature.

Asustainableagri-foodindustrywhichpromoteshealthandwell-beingthroughlocallysourcednutrition,whichpromotesapositivefoodcultureandwhichconnectspeopletotheirenvironmentcanbeadriverofsocietaltransformation.Natureisgoodforpeople,physically,mentallyandspiritually.TheCovid-19pandemichasunderlinedthisandtherehasbeenincreasedpublicinterestintheenvironment, traceable and safe food, and connections across rural society more generally.

Aworldclassagri-foodsectoriscentraltothehealthofNorthernIreland’seconomyandpeople.Itnotonlyimpactsonthehealth,well-beingandprosperityofthenearly1.9millionpeoplewholivehere,butalsovisitorstoourcountryandpeoplelivinginourexportmarkets.

Ourfutureagriculturalregimemustprotectourenvironment,animalhealth&welfare,andpublichealth-utilisinggreaterinnovationandcapacitytopromoteefficient,productivepractices.Consumers will increasingly demand high environmental, animal welfare and food safety & integritystandards,withanincreasedfocusontransparency,traceabilityandprovenancealongthe food chain.

TheprimaryroleofDAERA’sKnowledgeAdvisoryServiceistheholisticdevelopmentoffarmandfoodbusinesses,whereenvironmentalandeconomicperformanceareinextricablylinked,throughthedevelopmentanddeliveryofKnowledgeandTechnologyTransfer,industrytraining,benchmarkingandtechnicalsupporttotheindustry.Thisensuresthattheenvironmentalsustainability,resilienceandproductivityofourlandbasedandfoodprocessingindustriesaretheprimaryfocus,allowingbetterintegrationofenvironmentaladvicetosupporttheagri-foodsector.


Theobjectivewillbeanindustrythatisenvironmentallyresponsible,efficient,adaptable,responsiveandresilientintimesofcrisisandusesknowledgeandevidenceasprimarytoolstodeliversustainedsuccess.NorthernIrelandcanbecomeanexemplarastohow,withasmallenvironmentalfootprintandthehigheststandardsofanimalhealth&welfare,tobothprotecthealthandfeedlargenumbersofpeoplesustainably,efficientlyandprofitably.

F. Marine EnvironmentNorthernIreland’smarineareais6,819km2andrepresentsapproximatelyonethirdofournaturalenvironment.Thecoast,andtheseasaroundit,includehighlyproductiveandbiologicallydiverseecosystems.Theseasprovidetheoxygenwebreathe,storecarbondioxideweproduceandareanimportantpartofthewatercycleandclimatesystem.Ourmarineenvironmentsupportsfishing,aquaculture,tourismandothermarineindustriesthatmakeupthe‘blue economy’.

TheMarineandCoastalAccessAct2009andtheMarineAct(NorthernIreland)2013providemechanisms for managing the marine environment, including Marine Licensing, Marine Planning andMarineProtectedAreas(MPAs).TheFisheriesAct2020providesaframeworkforthemanagementoffishingandaquacultureactivities.

NorthernIrelandworkswiththeotherUKadministrationstodevelopandimplementtheUKMarine Strategy to achieve good environmental status (GES) in our seas. Achieving GES is aboutprotectingthemarineenvironment,preventingitsdeteriorationandrestoringitwherepractical,whileallowingsustainableuseofmarineresources.GESisunderpinnedbyanecologicallycoherentnetworkofmarineprotectedareas.

G. Built & Historic EnvironmentThebuiltenvironmentisamajorcomponentofourenvironment.Howwemaintain,reuseandenhance our built environment - whether in our large towns and cities, or in the countryside - will beavitalelementinthesuccessoftheEnvironmentStrategy.TheDepartmentforCommunities(DfC)hasasignificantroleinthisarea,withitsresponsibilitiesincludinghousing,urbanregenerationandthehistoricenvironment.TheDepartmentworkscloselywithDAERA,theDepartmentforInfrastructure,theDepartmentfortheEconomy,districtcouncilsandothersinfulfillingitsremit.

Urbanareasarecentresofinnovationandgrowth,andenginesofeconomicdevelopment;buttheyarealsomajorcontributorstoclimatechange,generatingsignificantgreenhousegasemissions.Manycitieshavedevelopedinlow-lyingareasandarevulnerabletotheimpactsofclimatechange-Belfastisaprimeexampleofsuchacity.Blue/greeninfrastructurecannotonly assist the greening of our urban environment but also facilitate better water management andsupportsafer,cleaner,sustainablespacesthatallowinterconnectivity,providerecreationspaces,andhelpcommunitiestothriveeconomicallyandsocially.Thereisalsoaneedtoexamineincentivestorepurposingexistingbuildingstoaddressembodiedenergy,increasingenergyefficiencyandusingrenewableenergy.


Accesstogoodquality,affordableandsustainablehomesthatareappropriatetopeople’sneedsprovidesenhancedsocietalbenefitsincludinghealthandwellbeing.Butuseandreuseofhousing,includingappropriateconstruction,renovationandrepurposing,canalsoplayavitalrole in emissions reduction while seeking to ensure a fair and just transition to carbon neutrality. TheHousingSupplyStrategyseekstoputpeopleatthecentreofsupply,deliveringonobjectiveneedunderpinnedbyprinciplesoffairnessandequality.Itwillfocusonmeetinghousingchallenges, including reducing whole-life carbon emissions from both new homes and existing homes,increasingtheprovisionoftherighthomesintherightlocations,andthecreationofthriving,attractiveandsustainablecommunitieswherepeoplewanttolive.ArevisedFuelPoverty Strategy will align with other Executive Strategies and the overarching direction they set forourenvironment,climatechangeandenergyefficiency.

Our historic environment and cultural heritage are major draws for visitors - from near and far - and a critical element of who we are and how we feel about ourselves. Our heritage is our authenticvoiceanddistinctivecharacter;itisthebasisforourconfidence,ourprosperity,andourhealth.Itbindsustogether,attractsinvestment,andimprovesqualityoflife.DfCisleadinginthedevelopmentofanExecutiveCultureArtsandHeritageStrategythatwillcomplementthisEnvironmentStrategyandsupportachievementofthedraftPfGOutcomethatpeoplewanttolive, work and visit here.

PlansforcreatingwelcomingandsustainableplaceswillthereforebevitalinachievingtheEnvironmentStrategy,aswellasdeliveringcommunityandeconomicbenefits.


3. Our Natural Environment

Ournaturalenvironmentisourlifesupportsystemandourgreatestasset.Foritssize,NorthernIrelandisamongstthemostgeologicallydiverseareasintheworldandthisshapesitsvariedandbeautifullandscapesandrichnature,wildlifeandhabitats.Thevalueofournaturalheritageisreflectedintheabundanceanddiversityofourwildlifeandhabitats,fromourdiversemarinelifeandinternationallysignificantcoastalwaters,riverandlakesystems,toourimportantpeatlands,oakwoodlands,semi-naturalgrasslandsandcoastalhabitats.

Ournaturalenvironmentcontributestoourprosperityandwell-beinginnumerousways.Itprovidestheessentialservicesforourlifeandwork,fromtheairwebreathe,thefoodweeatandthewaterwedrink,totheresourcesforbuildingourinfrastructure.Itprotectsourcommunitiesfromfloodingandextremeweatherandsupportsourhealthandqualityoflife,providingopenspacesforexercise,socialengagementandmentalwell-being.

Ourenvironmentisalsovitaltooureconomy.Ourlandscapesandseascapes,wildlife,habitats,waterandsoilsupportourfarming,foodindustry,businessandtourismsectorsandlocaleconomiesinourruralareas.Healthyecosystemswillplayakeyroleincombatingclimatechange,removingcarbonfromtheatmosphereandlockingitintohabitatsonlandandinsea,andhelpingustoadaptthroughfloodalleviation.Wewillbeincreasinglyreliantonaresilientandfullyfunctioningnaturalenvironment,capableofcontinuingtoprovideawiderangeofecosystems services vital to the economy and society as a whole.

Howeverournaturalenvironmentisunderthreatandsignificantactionisneededtorestorethe health and vigour of the natural systems that sustain us. Pressures such as changes in agriculturalpractices,waterandairpollution,developmentandinvasivespecies,leadtohabitatlossandfragmentationandassociatedspeciesdecline.Betterprotectionandmanagementofournaturalcapitalassetsisrequiredtoenhanceecosystemresilienceandcapacitytoprovidenature-basedsolutionstotoday’ssocio-environmentalchallenges.

Thepost-2020globalbiodiversityframework,whichisbeingnegotiatedundertheConventiononBiologicalDiversity(CBD)beforeitsadoptionattheConferenceoftheParties(COP15)in2022,setsoutanambitiousplantoimplementbroad-basedactiontobringaboutatransformationinsociety’srelationshipwithbiodiversity,ensuringthatby2050thesharedvisionoflivinginharmonywithnatureisfulfilled.Theinitialfocusistoreversebiodiversitylossandcreateanature-positiveworldby2030,withtheemphasisofthisdecadebeingonecologicalrestoration.

TakingactionwillcreateexcitingopportunitiesforNorthernIreland,supportingourambitionsforGreenGrowthanddevelopingnewskillsandproductswhilstsupportingcommunitiesandhelpingnaturetoflourish.Oureconomywillbestrongerandmoreresilient,andsocietywillbehealthier, fairer and more inclusive.


4. Natural Capital

NaturalCapitalreferstotheworld’sstockofnaturalresourcesandincludesgeology,soils,air,waterandalllivingorganisms.Theseareallelementsoftheenvironmentaroundusthatprovideuswithfood,cleanairandwater,wildlife,energy,wood,recreationandprotectionfromhazards.

Naturalcapitalassetsprovideawiderangeofvaluableecosystemservicesthatunderpinoureconomyandsociety.Weobtainbenefitfromtheseassetseverydaybutifwekeepdrawingdownourstockofnaturalcapitalwithoutallowingorencouragingnaturetorecover,weruntheriskoflocal,regionalorevenglobalecosystemcollapse.Workingagainstnaturebyoverexploitingnaturalcapitalcanbedisastrousasadeclineinecosystemproductivityandresiliencemakessomeregionsmorepronetoextremeeventssuchasfloodsanddroughtswhichmayresult in substantial costs.

ValuingournaturalcapitalisthereforecentraltotheenvironmentandconnectseachoftheStrategic Environmental Outcomes set out in this strategy. A better understanding of the value andbenefitsthatflowfromnaturalcapitalwillhelptoencouragemoreefficient,effectiveandsustainable use of our environment.

Thedevelopmentofarobustnaturalcapitalaccountingandecosystemconditionframeworkwillenablebetterconsiderationoftheroleofnatureinoureconomyandourwell-beingandunderpinothercross-cuttingNIstrategiesandprogrammes.Itwillsupportactionsinareassuchasthecirculareconomy,climatechange,biodiversity,resourceefficiencyandsustainableproduction.Itwill also encourage more long-term thinking and consideration of all costs involved in a decision.

TherecentDasguptaReviewontheEconomicsofBiodiversity,commissionedbyHMTreasury,has called for transformative change in how we consider nature in national accounting and economic decision making.

InadoptingaNaturalCapitalapproachinNorthernIrelandwewillneedtodrawtogethereconomic,socialandscientificevidenceandprovidepracticalapproachestoenablepeopletovalue nature systematically and fully when they are making decisions on the ground. This will requirehighqualitydataonthelocationandconditionofournaturalassetsandecosystems;comprehensivemodellingandassessmentofhowtheseecosystemsarechangingovertime;andaccessiblesourcesofinformationinastandardformatwhicharekeptuptodate.

TheaimistointegrateaNaturalCapitalapproachintoallpolicymakingandinvestmentdecisions,andensurewevalueandprotectournaturalassetstomakeNorthernIrelandmoreresilient and deliver sustainable economic growth and well-being.


Figure 3: Natural Capital & Ecosystems

Natural CapitalStock of natural

resource

Ecosystem Services

Flows

ValueBenefitstobusiness

and society

Biodiversity


5. Strategic Environmental Outcomes

The six Strategic Environmental Outcomes (SEOs) for the Environment Strategy are as follows (Figure 4). These are based around the DAERA core vision of sustainability at the heart of aliving,working,activelandscapevaluedbyeveryoneandlinktotheoutcomesfromthe‘Programme for Government Draft Outcomes Framework’ (asconsulteduponin2021),includingdraft PfG Outcome: “We live and work sustainably - protecting the environment”.

UndereachSEOaresetsofproposalstoimproveourenvironment.Eachsetincludes:

• Current Position: A summary of the current position in respect of the relevant environmental issue including an indication of performance against targets where appropriate.

• Actions: The steps departments intend to take to improve the environment (natural, built or historic).

• Targets: Specific goals or outputs relating to the actions set out in the proposal - these could be to achieve a defined level of performance or publish a key document such as a consultation or guidance for example.

• Vision/Outcomes: the intended/desired future outcome(s) which will in turn contribute to the achievement of the SEOs.

TheotherrelevantSEOsandUNSustainableDevelopmentGoals(SDGs),whicheachsetofactionscontributesto,areshownforeachsetofproposals.


Figure 4: The Strategic Environmental Outcomes

Excellent air, water, land & neighbourhood quality.

Healthy & accessible environment&landscapes everyone can connect with & enjoy.

Thriving, resilient & connected nature and wildlife.

Sustainableproduction&consumptiononlandand at sea.

Zerowaste&highlydevelopedcircular economy.

Fair contribution to UK net zero greenhouse gas emissions & improvedclimateresilienceandadaptability.

Sustainability at the heart of a living,

working, active landscape valued

by everyone.


Strategic Environmental Outcome 1 Excellent air, water, land & neighbourhood quality

This Strategic Environmental Outcome covers key elements of our environment including: airquality;waterquality;landquality;andlocalenvironmentquality.Formanypeople,theseenvironmentalissuesrepresenttheirday-to-dayexperienceof‘theenvironment’-fromtheairthey breathe, to the quality of their drinking water and the condition of their local neighbourhood.

1. Air Quality

Current StatusMonitoringstationsmeasureairqualityandgeneratereliabledatademonstratingcompliance,or otherwise, with legislation.OfthethreesitesthatmeasurePM2.5,allpollutantsmettheEUStage1(25µg/m3) and EUStage2(20µg/m3)limitvalues(2019report).Whilsttherearepositivechangesinsomepollutantlevels,otherscontinuetoexceedthemorestringent Air Quality Standards objective.96%ofNI’sammoniaemissionscomefromagriculture.From2010to2017agriculturalammoniaemissionsincreasedby20%,reachingalevelequivalenttothepeakemissionsofthelate1990s.Riseduetoincreasinglivestocknumbers;greateruseofindoorhousingsystems;andinsufficientuptakeofammoniareductionmeasures.Themajorityofdesignatedsitesareexperiencingammoniaconcentrationsandlevelsofnitrogendepositionatwhichdamagetoplantlifemayoccur.

Actions & Targets

•Improvetrafficdataonwhich to base modelling andprojections.

•2022:PublishNI’sfirstClean Air Strategy and developnewSMARTtargets and actions.

• Address ammonia emissions andtheirimpactsthroughthe forthcoming Ammonia Strategy.

•Continuefundingimprovementsinlocalairqualityandexplorefurther funding available.


•Developimprovedmonitoringanddatacollectiontoallowustomeasuretheimpactsofenergydecarbonisationpoliciesonairquality.

•IntegrateFarmBusinessSupportSchemeswithAmmoniaStrategy.

Future Vision/OutcomeCleaner air in Northern Ireland.Fewerpollutantsreleasedbyhomeheatingsystems.Increasedpublicawarenessofhealtheffectsofpoorairqualityandsourcesofpollution.Improvedmonitoringnetwork.Ammoniaemissionsreducedtoapointwherecriticalloadsofnitrogendepositionandcriticallevels of ammonia are not being exceeded at any designated sites.

Actions also contribute to SEOs UNSustainableDevelopmentGoals2 3 4

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2. Water Resources: Quality & Quantity

Current StatusUK Water Framework Regulation water quality indicators:No. or % achieving Good Environmental Standard (GES):

• All Waterbodies: 37% •Marine:10of25(TRaC)•Rivers:31%• Groundwater: 84%•Lakes:1of21

Rivers and lakes are showing deterioration, whilst our coastal and transitional water bodies remain unchanged.Insomeareas,phosphoruslevelsinfreshwatersarenowincreasingduetoagriculturalinputswhich is a major concern, as around 39% of our water bodies do not meet targets for good water quality for this reason.NutrientsActionProgramme(NAP)measuresinplacefor2019-2022.NIWaterhasanumberofstatutoryenvironmentalresponsibilitiesandobligations.Theseincludedrinkingwaterquality,wastewaterquality,reducingpollutionandadutytoprepareandmaintainawaterresourcesmanagementplan(nowcalledthe‘WaterResourceandSupplyResiliencePlan’).NIWater’sWaterStrategy2021-2046emphasisesthatitcontributesto,andreliesupon,thequalityofthenaturalenvironmentandsetsouthowitstrivestoprotectitbyworkinginanenvironmentallyresponsiblemanner,demonstratinghighstandardsofenvironmentalcareandoperationalperformance.

Action, Targets

• Integrated ecosystem models: Lough Foyle;CarlingfordLough;&BelfastLough.

• Investment in sewage infrastructure &treatmentworks(PC21).

• By 2027: 70% of waterbodies at Good Status.

•By2031:achievethesustainable management andefficientuseofnatural resources including water & soils.

• 2022: Publish finalRBMP.

•Implementthe‘Living With Water in Belfast Plan’.

• Publish conservation management plans&sitenutrient action plans.


River Basin Management Plans (RBMP) Programme of Measures:•Reducephosphorusandnutrientcontentofconcentratefeed.• Reduce use of chemical fertilisers.•Minimisedandcorrectuseofpesticides.•Licencingofslurryspreadingcontractors.•Addressgaponfarmlevelnutrientmanagementdata.•GreaterphasinginofLowEmissionSlurrySpreadingEquipmentrequirementsformore

farms.•PotentialnewoverallPhosphorus&NitrogenBalancetargets.•Consider&implementrecommendationsoftheNAPreview2019-22;andconsiderforfuture

NAP 2023-26.•By2031thenutrientsurplusinsoilshasbeenreduced.

Future Vision/OutcomeAnenvironmentwithhighwaterenvironmentstandardswhichsupportsbiodiversityandcontributestohealthandwell-beingandalivingandproductivelandscape.More sustainable nutrient management on farms - chemical and organic fertilisers are only appliedbasedonsoilrequirementsandintendedlanduse.ReducedlevelsofnitratesandphosphorusinNIwaterbodies.

Actions also contribute to SEOs UNSustainableDevelopmentGoals

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3. Marine and Coastal Water Resources: Quality & Quantity

Current StatusUKWaterFrameworkRegulationstandards-in2018,10of25marinewaterbodiesachievedGood Status (TRaC). 60%failedtoachieveGoodStatusduetoelevatednutrientlevelsandthepresenceofcertainpesticides.Maincauseoffailureisfromcatchment-basedinputs.Eutrophicationisnotanissueinwatersmorethanonemilefromshoreandoutsidethesealoughs.UKMarineStrategyenvironmentalstatusassessmentsin2018:forEutrophication,Contaminants, and Contaminants in Seafood - Good Environmental Status (GES) was largely achieved.MarineLitterdidnotachieveGES.UnderwaterNoiserequiresmorestudyofimpactsbefore a status assessment can be made. In202033%ofShellfishWaterProtectedAreasmetguidelinestandards.In2020100%ofidentifiedbathingwatersachievedtheminimumstandard,with65%achievingthe excellent standards.ClimatechangepressuresontheNorthernIrelandmarineareainclude:sealevelrise,increasedstorminess,oceanacidification,andrisingtemperatures.Action & Targets

•ImplementUKMarine Strategy Programme of Measures.

•Integratepost2020international targets relating to clean seas & climate change into DAERA strategies.

•Developintegratedecosystem models to link catchments with marine waters.

• Conduct review of Bathing Waters andimplementbathingwaterpredictionmodelstoprovideearlywarningofshorttermpollutionriskatidentifiedbathingwaters.

•ImplementandreviewShellfishWaterProtected Area Action Plans.

• Achieve Good Environmental Status in our seas (UK Marine Strategy)

Within the context of the Northern Ireland Marine Plan: •ImplementtheWaterFrameworkRegulationsthroughdeliveryofThirdCycleRiverBasin

Management Plans (2022-27).


•Implementwaterqualityimprovementprojectsandcatchment-basedimprovementprojects,andinvestinsewageinfrastructure&treatmentworks(PC21):

- Dundrum Bay Pilot -SWELLproject -LivingwithWaterprogramme

•DevelopandimplementNIPlasticsStrategyandreviseandimplementDAERAMarineLitterStrategy(oraspartofaproposedwiderLitterStrategy).

•Establishanoceanacidificationmonitoringprogrammeandraiseawarenessofpotentialimpactsonmarineecosystems,includingfisheries&aquaculture.

•CollaboratewithotherUKadministrationsandOSPARcontractingpartiestomanagemarinenoise.

Future Vision/OutcomeA healthy NI marine area which is managed sustainably for the economic, environmental and socialprosperityofpresentandfuturegenerations.Weaimtoachievethisbymanagingandprotectingthemarineenvironment,preventingitsdeteriorationandrestoringitwherepractical,whileallowingsustainableuseofmarineresources,andensuringitisresilientandadaptabletoclimatechange.


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4. Sustainable Drainage & Wastewater Management

Current StatusTheLong-TermWaterStrategy(2015-2040)currentlylinksallaspectsofwatermanagementandsetsouttheprinciplesbehindtheneedforanintegratedapproach.WaterRegulationReformisatitsearlystageswithasignificantnumberofworkpackagesfocusing on the delivery of sustainable drainage and wastewater.‘LivingwithWaterProgramme’(LWWP)projectsandStrategicIntegratedDrainageProgramme(SIDP)ledbyDfIseekingtoapplyaholisticintegratedapproachtodesigningurbandrainageand wastewater systems.Pilot case studies underway for inclusion of Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) at the designstageofhousingdevelopments.FloodRiskManagementPlansareanimportantpartoftheimplementationoftheWaterEnvironment (Floods Directive) Regulations (NI) 2009.TheSocial&EnvironmentalGuidanceforWaterandSewerageServices(2021-2027)aimstoensureNIWatermeetsitsenvironmentalobligationsandworkstooperatesustainably,takingaccount of climate change.

Actions & Targets

•ImplementationofSuDSinallcapitalschemes delivered byNIDepartments,wherepossible.

• Inclusion of SuDS training for relevant sectors.

• Undertake Water Regulation Reformworkprogramme.

•ImplementationofIntegratedEcosystem Modelling in the consenting methodology to design sustainable technology.

• Engagement with district councils to include SuDS in LocalDevelopmentPlans.

•ImplementFlood Risk Management Plan2021-27.

•Commencerequiredsixyearlyreviewof2015-40Strategy.•EstablishmentofanappropriateapprovalsystemforSuDSatthedesignstage.•DeliversignificantcapitalinvestmentinEventandDurationMonitorstoassesstheperformanceoftheNIWaterassetandfullyunderstandthevolumeofuntreatedsewagespilledtotheenvironment.


•PotentialnewNIspecificSuDSGuidelinesforSectors.•Reviewofthe‘StatementofRegulatoryPosition&Intent’forNIWatertoclearlysetouthow

NIEA will regulate NI Water over the next 2 decades.•ThroughtheLWWP,developanddeliverstrategicdrainageinfrastructureplansforBelfastandotheridentifiedAreasofPotentialSignificantFloodRisk.

Future Vision/OutcomePrinciplesofsustainabledrainageappliedacrossallindustriestomanagewaterinamoresustainablemanner,wherepossible,resultinginimprovementsintheenvironment,prevention/reductionoffloodrisk,andreductionofpollutionfromcombinedwastewatersewers.Reformedregulationofpointsourcesdischargestoensuresustainabledrainageprinciplesareappliedwherepossible.

Actions also contribute to SEOs UNSustainableDevelopmentGoals2 3 4 6


5. Neighbourhood Environment Quality

Current StatusDAERAintroducedthe2011CleanNeighbourhoods&EnvironmentAct.Councilscancurrentlyissuefinesofupto£80forlitteroffences.Thenumberoffixedpenaltiesissuedrosetoapeakof4,218in2017buthasdeclinedsince.The annual litter survey indicates that litter volumes have been increasing again in recent years andmanyCouncilshaverequestedthepowertoincreasefines.NorthernIrelanddoesn’tcurrentlyhaveanoverarchingLitterStrategy.KeepNIBeautiful’s‘LiveHere,LoveHere’annualsurveyincludes‘admittedlittering’.Thiswillbe the initial means of measuring societal attitudes to littering.

Actions & Targets

• Include litter in Extended Producer Responsibilitylegislation.

• Increase the maximum Fixed Penalty Notice for litter and dog fouling offences to£200by2023.

• Publish Northern Ireland’sfirstLitterStrategy by 2024.

• Amend the Environmental Offences (Fixed Penalties) (MiscellaneousProvisions)Regulations(NI)2012togiveCouncilsgreaterpowerstovaryfinesby2023.

•IntroduceaDepositReturn Scheme for Drinks Containers in 2024.

•Adopt-a-Spot:Anetwork of 500 groupsengaging300,000 volunteers from 2025.

• Continued grant supporttoimprovelocal environment quality&civicpride.


Future Vision/OutcomeBy2030,createcleanercommunitieswithlesslitterandinstilcommunitieswithcivicpride.By2035,bringaboutasocietalbehaviouralshift,wherelitteringissociallyunacceptableandthecostsforclearinglitteraresignificantlyreducedinrealterms.


2 3 4

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6. Dilapidated Buildings & Neglected Sites

Current StatusDilapidatedbuildingscanruintheappearanceofanareawithnegativeimpactsonbusiness,propertyvalues,anti-socialbehaviour,tourismpotentialandcivicpride.Muchofthelegislationusedbycouncilsdatesbacktothemid-19thcenturyand/orappliestolimitedgeographicalareas.ThereisalsoasignificantlegislativedeficitinNIcomparedwithotherjurisdictions,whichhaveaccesstopowertodealwithdilapidationatamucheasierstage.

Actions & Targets

• Engage with Councils through Local DevelopmentPlansprocesstoprioritisederelictioninplanstrategies&policies.

•Developawide-rangingDilapidationBill.Introducetothe NI Assembly by 2023.

•Newprovisionsto tackle low level dilapidation.

•Significantlyenhancedistrictcouncils’costrecoverypowers.

Future Vision/OutcomeProvidealldistrictcouncilswithamodern,fit-for-purposeNI-wideenforcementregimetodealwiththenegativeimpactofdilapidated/dangerousbuildingsandneglectedsites.Themaintenanceofattractiveandsuccessfulplacesinwhichpeoplearehappytolive,work and visit.

Actions also contribute to SEOs UNSustainableDevelopmentGoals2 3


Strategic Environmental Outcome 2 Healthy & accessible environment & landscapes

everyone can connect with & enjoy

There is no debating the fact that our environment is our single greatest asset. It is key to our well-being,bothinaneconomicsenseandintermsofourgeneralphysical,mentalandsocialhealth - as individuals and as a society.

Engagingwithpeopleofallages,communities,business,localandcentralgovernmentandthethird sector will be crucial to the delivery and success of the Environment Strategy. This includes bothphysicallyengagingpeoplewiththenaturalandhistoricenvironment-throughtheprovisionofqualitynaturalspacesandopportunitiesforoutdoorrecreation&learning-andengagingpeopleandorganisationswiththeprocessesandinterventionsthatwillimproveourenvironmentin the coming years and decades.

7. Connecting People to the Environment: Landscapes, Seascapes & Natural Beauty

Current StatusNorthernIreland’sstunningrangeoflandscapesandseascapesareavitalresource,valuedfortheirscenic,ecologicalandhistoricalqualitieswhichcontributetoNI’sdistinctiveidentity.Shapedbynatureandpeople,thevariationsingeology,soils,landform,biodiversity,landuse,vegetation,fieldboundaries,settlementpatterns,buildingstylesandculturalorhistoricalassociationsallcombinetogiverisetodifferentlandscapes,eachwithitsowndistinctivecharacterandsenseofplace.TheincrediblediversityofNI’slandscapecharacterhasbeenhighlightedintheNILandscapeCharacterAssessmentSeries,theNIRegionalLandscapeCharacterAssessmentandtheNIRegionalSeascapeCharacterAssessment.TherearealsospecialconcentrationsoflandscapeandseascapeassetsacrossNI,manyof which have been recognised by their designation as Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs)forreasonsofscenicquality,unspoiltcharacter,senseofplace,conservationinterest,culturalandrecreationalvalue.InadditionNIhoststhespectacularGiant’sCauseway&Causeway Coast World Heritage Site (WHS) which is recognised worldwide for its outstanding universal value.TheUKgovernmenthassignedandratifiedtheEuropeanLandscapeConventionwhichisdedicatedtotheprotection,managementandplanningofourlandscapes.Itprovidesapeople-centred and forward-looking way to reconcile management of the environment with the social andeconomicchallengesofthefuture,andaimstohelppeoplereconnectwithplace.


Actions & Targets

•Landscapepolicy/legislation review.

•By2025:110internationally awarded Green & Blue sites.

•PublishandupdateAONBand WHS Management & Action Plans.

• Use of new technological solutions tomonitorlandscapechange.

•PublishSperrins AONB Management Plan.

• Publish refreshed AONB guide to designation.•UpdateLandscape&SeascapeCharacterAssessments.•By2027developlongtermstrategicwaysforwardforthemanagement,planning,enhancement&protectionofourlandscapes&seascapes.

•TheDepartmentforInfrastructurewillworkco-operativelywithDAERAonchangestoregionalplanningpolicy.

Future Vision/OutcomeThenaturalbeautyandcharacterofourlandscapes&seascapesisprotected,maintained,enhanced & enjoyed by everyone.

Actions also contribute to SEOs UNSustainableDevelopmentGoals2

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8. Connecting People to the Environment: Outdoor Recreation & Natural Space Provision

Current StatusThereisevidencethatincreasedconnectionwithnatureduringtimespentoutdoorsisalignedwithgreatercareandconcernfortheenvironmentandincreasedpro-natureconservationbehaviours.OutdoorrecreationplaysavitalroleinNI,bringingbenefitstosocietybycontributingtoawiderangeofareas,includingimprovinghealthandwell-being,protectingtheenvironment,tackling inequality, growing and greening the economy, increasing active travel, and enhancing education and learning.TherearelessonstobelearntfromtheCovid-19Pandemicandhowpeoplereliedonoutdoorphysicalactivitiesfortheirdailyexercise.Thishighlightedtheneedforsafe,highquality,accessibleandwelcomingspacesandplaces.Thereisfragmentedprovisionofvaryingqualityandaccessibilityofwalking,cyclingandequestrianroutesandgreenspacesacrossNI.OpenSpaceStrategiesandoutdoorrecreationplanshavebeendrawnupforanumberofcouncils and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.ProtectionandPromotionofAccesstoandsustainableuseofpubliclyownedlandforsportandphysicalactivity.ImplementationofStrategicPlanningPolicyStatementincludingsectiononOpenSpace,Sportand Outdoor Recreation. Existinglegislationfortheprovisionofoutdoorrecreationisunderreview.Recentresearchshowsthat29%ofpeopleconsideredthattheydonothavegreenspacewithineasywalkingdistanceoftheirhomeandonly27%ofthepopulationweremeetingtheChiefMedicalOfficer’sphysicalactivitytargetsthroughleisuretimespentoutdoors(150+mins/weekor75+minsatavigorouslevel).In2019outdoorrecreationinNIwaswortharound£130mandwasassociatedwithnearly5,000fulltimeequivalentemployees.


Actions & Targets

•UpdateOutdoorRecreationAction Plan for NI.

•DevelopCommunityPath Network & Places Plans.

•Developmentofrevised/new outdoor recreation legislation.

•DevelopmentofanewStrategyforSportandPhysical Activity for thenext10yearsandbeyond.

•Facilitation/provisionofrecreation facilities on government owned land.

•Improvequantity,quality & accessibility of existing natural spaces,parks,recreational routes and marine & freshwaters.

•Expandoff-roadnetworkof both local community pathsandregionallysignificantNIwideroutes.• Create a consolidated and

expandedGImapofallpubliclyaccessiblenaturalspace.

•Continuedgrantstosupportdevelopmentofnewandimprovedoutdoorrecreationroutesandaccessiblenaturalspaces,andprogrammestoencouragepeopletounderstandandusetheseplaces.

•3-yearlypopulationlevelsurveyofoutdoorrecreationuse&engagementwiththenaturalenvironment.

•Developmentofa‘ChangingPlacesActionPlan’foraregionalnetworkofsuitableoutdoorrecreationlocationsandtoincreasetheaccessibilityofoutdoorrecreationforpeoplewithspecialneedsordisabilities.

•Reviewandrollforwardthe‘ActiveLiving-NoLimits’DisabilitySportActionPlanto2029.•FormpartnershipsbetweenrelevantDepartments,Councils,OutdoorRecreationNIandotherbodiestoencourageanddevelopaninclusiveoutdoors.

•Implement‘Exercise-Explore-Enjoy:AStrategicPlanforGreenways’&‘MakingBelfastanActiveCity:BelfastCyclingNetwork2021’.

•Increaseawarenessofaccessiblecommunitytransportschemestoreducebarrierstoaccessandparticipationinoutdoorsportandrecreationalopportunities.

•Developinclusiveoutdoorprojects&initiativeswithoutdoorrecreationproviderstosupportthedeliveryoflocalarearecreationplans.


•Developprogrammesofactivitytoincreaseparticipationinoutdoorrecreationinthenaturalenvironmentinsectionsofthepopulationwherelevelsarelow.

•TheDepartmentforInfrastructurewillworkco-operativelywithDAERAwithregardtoregionalplanningpolicyandlocaldevelopmentsplans.

Future Vision/OutcomePeople,placesandnatureareconnectedthroughnaturerichroutes.Everyone is enabled to connect to the natural environment, each other and their local services throughanetworkofsustainablequalityoff-roadgreenroutesandspaces.Everyonehasaccesstoinclusive,shared,welcomingandhigh-qualityoutdoorsportsandphysicalactivityinfrastructure.Asafe,economicallyandenvironmentallysustainablelocalandregionalsportsandphysicalactivity infrastructure.Anationalgreenwaysnetworklinkingpopulationcentresandourbestlandscapesandhabitats,encouragingactivetravel,understandingofandbenefitsfortheenvironment,people’shealthand well-being and the rural and tourism economy.Localpeopleareengagedinprotecting,managingandimprovingtheseroutesandplaces.Everyoneappreciatesandrespectstheenvironmentstheyvisitandthosethatmanageandvisit them.Landownersandmanagersareenabledtoprovideinformaloutdoorrecreationontheirpropertieswithoutsignificantdisruptiontotheirbusiness.By 2050:90%ofhouseholdshavepublicallyaccessiblequalitynaturalspace>2hawithin400moftheirhomeandatleastonesite>20hainsizewithin2km.90%ofthepopulationvisitingthenaturaloutdoorsatleastonceaweek.Everychildaged4-11spends1+hoursinnaturerichsettingseachmonth.


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9. Environment Engagement Index (EEI)

Current StatusTheEEIisuniquetoNIandexploresengagementandconnectiontonaturethroughanannualsurvey.Researchhasshownifpeoplearemoreconnectedtonaturetheyaremorelikelytolookafterit.Abaselinesurveyhasbeencompletedacrossawiderangeofdemographics(datacollectedfromonline/telephonesurveysandfromnaturalreachthroughtheweb-app).Theannualsurveyresultswillbeusedtotrackchangesintherelationshipbetweensocietyandnature over time.

Actions & Targets

•Improvescoresagainst the baseline.

• Dissemination to other UK regions and internationally.

• Increases to engagement through sponsored/paidadvertising.

•Usesurveyresultstobetterunderstandpeople’sconnectionwiththeenvironment.•Furtherdevelopthesurveytofocusondifferentaspectsofenvironmentalengagement.

Future Vision/OutcomeTodemonstratehowDAERA’seducationandawarenessraisinginitiativesarehavingapositiveimpactonpeopleandtheirrelationshipwiththeenvironment.



10. The Next Generation

Current StatusEco-SchoolsisahighlysuccessfulglobalprogrammeinwhichNIhasbeenaleadingperformer.Asof2015,everyschoolinNorthernIrelandisaregisteredEco-School-aworldfirst.PartneringwithorganisationssuchasKeepNIBeautiful(KNIB)andUlsterWildlifehasplayedacentralroleinengagingyoungpeopleinenvironmentalissues.KNIB’sEco-SchoolsprogrammeandUlsterWildlife’s‘Our Bright Future’(apartnershipledbythe Wildlife Trusts, bringing together the youth and environmental sectors to deliver change for the local environment) have been instrumental in engaging the next generation in the developmentoftheEnvironmentStrategy.TheNIExecutive’sChildren&YoungPeople’sStrategy2020-2030aimstoimprovetheenvironmentalwell-beingofallourchildrenandyoungpeopleNationalMuseumsNI’s(NMNI)NaturalSciencescollectionsandtheCentreforEnvironmentalDataandRecording(CEDaR)aretwokeyresourcesforunlockingpublicaccesstoandunderstanding of environmental issues.NMNIrecentlyjoinedtheEC’sGlobalCoalitionforBiodiversity.LibrariesNIreadingprogrammesforchildrenencouragegreaterunderstandingofenvironmentalissues.Readingchallengeshaveencouragedmorethan12,000childrentoreadmore and to engage in environmental activities.

Actions & Targets

• Engage with our children and young peopletoprovidethemwithopportunities to learn about, actively engage with,andpositivelyshapethenaturalenvironment.

•2023:Championingagroupof‘30under30’environmental leaders.

• 2025: 50% of schools will have an Eco-Schools Green Flag.

•2025:160,000pupilsand students actively engaged in Eco-Schools.

•500AdoptASpotGroupsand300,000 volunteers engagedinpracticalenvironmental programmes.


•ExploreopportunitiestopartnerwithathirdpartyorganisationtoestablishEducationBasesatupto4outdoorDAERAsiteswithvaryinghabitats(coastal/marine,woodland,ponddipping,wildflowermeadows,riverine,freshwater,peatland,groundwater),anddeliveranon-siteenvironmentaleducationprogrammeencompassingbiodiversity,climatechangeandresources.

Future Vision/OutcomeHighly engaged and well educated future generations with the necessary knowledge, skills and behaviours to drive societal change.Childrenandyoungpeoplecan:accessandinteractwiththenaturalenvironmentathome,inschoolandindailyactivities;andworktoimproveandenhancethequalityoftheenvironmentsinwhichtheylive,learnandplay.Museum collections and the knowledge we hold about them will be recognised as essential ‘big data’,routinelyaccessedtoprogressresearch,informdebateandinfluencedecisionmaking.NMNINaturalSciencesexpertswillhelpaudiencesunderstandtheenvironmentalissuesthataffectsocietyandhowtheycantakeactionandmakeadifference,atapersonalandlocallevel.


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11. Sustainable Settlements

Current StatusTheproblemsfacingoursettlementsreflectthechangingwaythatweusethem.Thischangesthenatureofwhatmakesa‘highstreet’sustainable.Fromapolicyperspective,weneedtosupportinterventionswhichdeveloptowncentresasmultifunctionalsocialcentres.TheimpactoftheCoronavirusPandemicandtheresultantimpactonvillage,townandcitycentreshasreinforcedtheneedforacoordinatedstrategicresponsetoboththeimmediateandlongertermrecoverypriorities.Thisprovidestheopportunitytoshifttheperceptionofthehighstreetawayfromthetraditionaleconomic model and towards one that addresses social, environmental and economic sustainability.DfCcurrentlysupportsthedevelopmentofMasterplansandprovidesfinancialsupportforPublicRealmandEnvironmentalImprovementschemes,ComprehensiveDevelopmentschemes,theawardofUrbanDevelopmentGrants,Revitalisationschemes,theHeritageRegenerationFundandsupportforthedevelopmentofBusinessImprovementDistricts.DfIhasinvestedinwalking&cyclinginfrastructureandsustainablepublictransport,andhascreateda‘Blue/GreenInfrastructureFund’tosupporttransformationofourcommunitiesandpromotionofactivetravel.PublicRealmschemesincreasinglysupportwalking,cycleprovision,andincreasedsoftlandscapingtoimproveactivetravelandincreasegreeninfrastructureandsustainableenvironments.Quite a number of our city and town centres currently use unsustainable water management techniquesandarenotfutureproofedforclimatechange.Actions & Targets

• Drive inclusive growth through our rich and diverse cultural heritage.

• Build and strengthen the resilience of our villages, towns and cities by creating placeswherepeoplewant to live and work, to visit and invest.

•Developand support sustainability and Green Growth.

• Work across Government to promotetheGreenwaynetworkencouraging walking and cycling andreducingcardependency.

• Secure the long-term future oftheHousingExecutive’ssocial housing stock for future generations.

• Grow and scale community wealth buildingtosupporteconomic recovery.


•Investinregeneration,communityassetsandallpartsofourhousingeconomy,includingmakingbestuseofpubliclandforhousing,maximisingsocialvalueandadoptingapeoplecentredapproachtoinvestmentinourtownsandcities.

•ImplementationofGreenwaysandBicyclePlans;DevelopmentofTransportPlansanduseBlue/GreenInfrastructureFundtopromotehealthandwellbeing,bettercitiesandtownsandsustainabletransport.

•BuildfinancialcapabilityandsustainabilityofLocalGovernmenttoensuretheycandeliverkeypublicservicesandsupportalignedtotheProgrammeforGovernment.

• Ensure scheme designs are climate resilient, including Belfast Tidal Project, water management such as attenuation of storm water run-off (SuDS), and address air quality issuesthroughtheuseofsoftlandscaping.

•Integrateexisting,andincorporatenew,naturalfeaturesintohousingdevelopmenttosupportqualityofplace,biodiversityandwatermanagement,andaddressclimatechangemitigationand resilience.

Future Vision/OutcomeSustainablecity,townandvillagecentreswhicharethrivingplacesforpeopletodobusiness,socialise,shop,becreativeandusepublicservicesaswellasbeinggreatplacestoliveChangedperceptionsfromatraditionaleconomicmodeltoamoresustainable,LivingHighStreetsmodelthataddressessocial,environmentalandeconomicaspectsofourHighStreetsWell-designed,sustainableplaceswithastrongidentitygivetheirusers,occupiersandownersasenseofpride,helpingtocreateandsustaincommunitiesandneighbourhoodsBetterhealthandwell-beingthroughpromotionofwalking,cyclingandsustainabletransportBetter connected communities and city centres through greenway & cycleway networksSustainable water management is the norm for our settlements


Strategic Environmental


12. Historic Environment

Current StatusThehistoricenvironmentisthebasisforourconfidence,ourprosperity,andourhealth.Thereareover17,000heritageassetsontheSitesandMonumentsRecord,andover9,000listedbuildings. Condition surveys have shown that overall condition of the assets is declining, and there is growth in the number of entries on the Heritage at Risk register. Around 90% of monuments are on agricultural land and the condition of many of them is deteriorating. Currentagriculturalsupportarrangementsdonotencouragefarmerstocareforhistoricmonuments on their land.Theplanningpolicyframeworkinplaceforthelast20yearsisbeingreplacedwithLocalDevelopmentPlans.HeritageassetsarebecomingsubjecttonewandvariedthreatsthroughtheimpactsofClimateChange.Healthandwell-beingbenefitsofthehistoricenvironmentforcommunitiesneedtobebetterunderstood and valued.TheUKFisheriesAct2020hashighlightedthatheritageassetsareanintrinsicpartofthemarine & aquatic environment.TheRulesannexedtothe2001UNESCOConventionontheProtectionoftheUnderwaterCulturalHeritagehavebeenadoptedbyHMGovernmentasbeing‘best practice’.Actions & Targets• Developandimplementa

Culture Arts and Heritage Strategy which embeds environmental outcomes.

• Updateconditionsurveys and ensure appropriate actions are plannedasa result of them.

• Bringforwardclearplansandoptionsforthefuturemanagement and conservation of the State Care Monuments.

• Continue to work across the historic environment sectorandwithcommunitiestoprogressactionswhichsupportdeliveryofPfGoutcomesandkeystrategies.

• Integrate marine and aquatic historic environment considerations into all decision-making processesandassessments of environmental impacts.

• Continuetosupportownersandcommunitiesto identify sustainable uses and management of heritage assets for current and future generations.


• Workwithcouncilstoinformlocaldevelopmentplansanddevelopmentmanagementdecisionswhichalignwithtreatiesandbestpracticetoconserve,protect,enhanceandrealisethevalueofourhistoricenvironment;alongsidemanagementoflicensingandconsentingregimeswhichalsosupportthis.

• Work with DAERA to ensure heritage assets are included within marine and aquatic environmentlegislationandpolicies.

• WorkwithTNIandCouncilstobuildfurtherontheProspectusforChangeasablueprintforour cultural heritage tourism offering.

• WorkacrossDepartmentsinrelationtofutureagriculturalsupportinordertorecognisetheextentandimportanceofthehistoricenvironmentwhichissituatedonagriculturalland.

• Progressresearchonthespecificclimatechangechallengesandopportunitiesforheritageassets, and use this as the basis for advice, guidance and action.

• EnsurethatGovernmentDepartmentsandtheirALBsleadbyexample,asrequiredbytheProtocol for the Care of the Government Historic Estate.

Future Vision/OutcomeAwell-maintainedhistoricenvironmentwhichsupportsourprosperity,strengthensoursocietyandshapesourcharacter.Anhistoricenvironmentwhichisprotectedforfuturegenerations.Resilientcommunitieswhichgainphysical,educationalandwell-beingbenefitsfromthehistoric environment.Anhistoricenvironmentwhichissustainableconnectedandmanagedasavitalpartofourdiverse environment.Increasedunderstandingoftherelationshipsbetweenournaturalandhistoricenvironment,cultureandarts,enablingcollaborationandleadingtobenefitsforourlocalcommunitiesandeconomy.


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Strategic Environmental Outcome 3 Thriving, resilient & connected nature and wildlife

Weareanintegralpartofnature,andreliantonnaturetosustainlife.Wecanpositivelyimpactnatureasweengagewithit,protecting,maintainingandenhancingacleanandhealthyenvironmentaswelive,workandplay.Howeverwecanalsocauseharmtotheenvironment,andthisnegativeengagementisincreasinglycausingimpactstohealth,well-beingandfuturesustainability.

13. Protecting Nature on Land

Current StatusFurtherworkisrequiredtoachievefavourableconservationstatusacrossNorthernIreland’spriorityhabitatsandforourpriorityspecies.TheprotectedsitenetworkofSpecialAreasofConservation(SAC),SpecialProtectionAreas(SPA)andAreasofSpecialScientificInterest(ASSI)covers8.9%ofNorthernIreland.NorthernIreland’sbiodiversityisunderpressureduetovariousfactors,withmuchinunfavourableconditionand~11%ofspeciesthreatenedwithextinctionacrosstheisland. Keyreportsin2019reportedconcerningtrendsinabundanceindicatorsforasuiteofspeciesinNIandwidespreadloss,degradationandfragmentationofhabitats.Conservationmanagementplansarebeingdevelopedforour54terrestrialSACs.DAERAisconsultingonadraftPeatlandStrategyforNI2021-2040,whichsetsoutaframeworkforconservingandrestoringourpreciouspeatlandhabitatsandbiodiversityandprovidingnature-basedsolutionstoclimatechange.Light PollutionLightpollutionhasincreasedasaresultoftheIlluminationofourstreetsandroads,our buildings and agricultural greenhouses, as well as other sites. It is known to cause environmentalharm,hasaprobableadverseeffectonhumanhealth,andwasteselectricity.WhiteLEDslamps,oftenfoundinstreetlightsemitwavelengthsofbluelight,potentiallyincreasing sky glow. These wavelengths are also known to affect animals, including humans morethanLEDlampsemittingwarmamberglow.


Actions & Targets

• 30% of land and waterprotectedfornature by 2030.

• Increase NI woodland cover to8.8%(122,000hectares) by 2030.

• Publish the NI Peatland Strategy andImplementationPlan by 2022.

•Allsemi-naturalpeatlandsare conserved or restored to healthy, functioning ecosystems by 2040.

•Developandimplementnew legislation and measurestosupportdelivery of 30x30 and other CBD targets.

• Extend the protectedareasnetworktoprovidefor bigger, better areas for nature.

•DevelopandpublishanewBiodiversityStrategy2030by2022toenableachievementofpost-2020internationalcommitments(CBD)anddeliveryofUKBiodiversityFramework.

•Developandimplementactionplanstoaddressspecificpressuresonnatureincludingammonia,wildfires,invasivespecies,pollinators,andclimatechangeadaptation.

•Developandimplementnaturerecoveryplansandprogrammes,includingnaturebasedsolutions,forprotectedsites,priorityhabitatsandspecies,andnaturerecoverynetworks.

•DAERAwillworkco-operativelywithotherGovernmentDepartments,authoritiesandstakeholderstoenhanceprotectionfornature,deliverbiodiversitygainandsupportlandscapescale ecosystem restoration.

•Integratepost2020internationaltargetsagreedattheBiodiversityConferenceoftheParties(COP15)andclimatechangeintoDAERAstrategies.

• Enhance our terrestrial biodiversity monitoring and evidence base and integrate into national accountingandreportingsystems.

•Deliverthe‘ForestsforourFuture’Programmeincludingassociatedconservationandprotectionmeasuresforlongestablishedwoodlandandhabitatsofconservationconcern

•Developfundingmechanismstosupportstakeholderactiontowardsbecoming‘naturepositive’by2030includingpartnershipandGreenFinancesolutionsfornaturerecovery.

•Createorrestore75,000haofwildliferichhabitatoutsidetheprotectedsitenetwork(focusingonpriorityhabitatsandsupportedbynature-friendlylandmanagement).


•Restore75%of150,000hectaresofterrestrialandfreshwaterprotectedsitestofavourablecondition (securing their wildlife value for the future).

•Promotionoftheconceptofa‘DarkSkyCity’,utilisingsmartlightingmanagementsystems,lowcolourtemperatureamberLEDs,minimisingwaste,promotingasustainableenvironment.

• Reducing unnecessary light emissions as an element in reducing energy usage and the impactonnature.

Future Vision/OutcomeNorthern Ireland will be Nature Positive by 2030 and living in harmony with nature by 2050.Our vision is to have healthy, functioning, thriving and resilient nature and ecosystems across NorthernIreland’slandscapes,whichcontributesvaluableecosystemservices,climateresilience and well-being for current and future generations.Wewilldothisbyprotecting,managing,restoring,extendingandconnectingournaturalecosystemsandthespeciesthatrelyonthem.Measuresareinplacetoaddresspressuresandthreatsoriginatingfromhumanactivityandensureournatureisresilientandadaptabletoclimatechange.Biodiversity loss in NI is halted, gains in biodiversity are real and measurable, habitats and specieshaveachievedfavourablestatus.Increasedwoodlandcoverhasimprovedourcarbonsink,creatednewwoodlandhabitatandenhancedbiodiversityaspartofawidernaturerecoverynetwork,helpedwithfloodalleviation,improvedwaterqualityandisvaluedandprotectedasanintegralpartofthelivesofallcitizensliving in NI.Reducedlightpollutionthroughreductionsinlightemittedfromourhomesandbusinessesatnight.


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14. Protecting Nature at Sea

Current StatusFurther work is required to achieve Good Environmental Status under the UK Marine Strategy descriptorsforbiodiversityandfoodwebs.TheMPAnetworkrepresents38.1%oftheNorthernIrelandinshoreregion.Areaofmarineprotectedsitesunderfavourablemanagement=115km2in2020/21.ManagementplansarebeingdevelopedforallMPAsandduetobepublishedin2022.ClimatechangepressuresontheNorthernIrelandmarineareainclude:sealevelrise,increasedstorminess,oceanacidification,andrisingtemperatures.

Actions & Targets

• By 2030: 30% of seas protected,ensuringanecologically coherent & well managed MPA network.

• By 2030: DAERA willdevelop specificmeasures toprotectandenhancerelevant carbon sequestration and storage habitats. •Develop&implement:

-Marineinvasivespeciesactionplans; -EffectiveMPAmanagement&restorationplans.

•Developfisheriespoliciesalignedtoobjectives in UK Fisheries Act 2020.

• Achieve Good Environmental Status in our seas (UK Marine Strategy).

• Through the Coastal Forum DAERA, DfI, district councils and environmental stakeholders will workcollaborativelytoprogresscoastalmanagementissues.

•Integratepost2020internationaltargetsrelatingtobiologicallydiverseandhealthyseas,andclimate change into DAERA strategies.

•ImplementUKMarineStrategyProgrammeofMeasuresandUKDolphinandPorpoiseConservation Strategy.

•Developandimplementpost2020MPAStrategyandSeabirdConservationStrategyforNI.•ExtendandadapttheMPAnetworktodevelopclimateresilienceandincreaseprotectionof

carbon storage habitats.•Integratemarinebiodiversityintoaccountingandreportingsystems.


Future Vision/OutcomeA healthy Northern Ireland marine area which is managed sustainably for the economic, environmentalandsocialprosperityofpresentandfuturegenerations.Weaimtoachievethisbymanagingandprotectingthemarineenvironment,preventingitsdeteriorationandrestoringitwherepractical,whileallowingsustainableuseofmarineresources,andensuringitisresilientandadaptabletoclimatechange.


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15. Natural Capital

Current StatusThereisarecognisedneedforacomprehensiveNaturalCapital(NC)andecosystemframeworkforNIincorporatingecosystemconditionmonitoringandNCecosystemassessmentsystemswhichalignswithprogressintherestoftheUK.PreliminaryworkinNIincludes:reviewofnaturalcapitalassetregisterneedsandevidencefornaturalcapitalassessments,developmentofa‘Living Map’ of NI, enhancement of evidence base,includingpreparationsforanewNICountrysideSurvey,andcasestudiesonnaturalcapitalvalue.

Actions & Targets

•By2022:Develop&publishaninitial Northern Ireland Natural CapitalAssetRegister.

•Scope&developa robust NC and ecosystem assessment framework for NI.

•ApplyaNCaccountingframeworkacrosspublicsectordevelopmentandactionplansandintegratebiodiversity values into all decision-making processesatalllevels.

• Consider extension toCulturalCapital,connecting to work by HM Treasury & DCMS.

• Enhance & maintain our datasets for determining ecosystem condition of broad NI habitats and associated ecosystem services.

• Enhance our evidence on the extent, condition, functioning and connectivity of NI ecosystems, using a range of earth observation, survey methodologies and land cover assessments.


Future Vision/OutcomeThe value of our natural resources is recognised and embedded in all our investment decisions andisanintegralpartofeverydaylifeandwork.



Strategic Environmental Outcome 4 Sustainable production & consumption on land and at sea

Sustainableproduction&consumptioninvolvestheproductionanduseofproductsandservicesinamannerthatisenvironmentallybenign,sociallybeneficialandeconomicallyviableovertheir whole life cycle. Key to this is ‘resource efficiency’,commonlydefinedasusingtheEarth’slimitedresourcesinasustainablemannerwhileminimisingimpactsontheenvironment.Thisissomethingthatappliesacrossallsectors-includingindustry,agricultureandenergy.

16. Future Agricultural Policy

Current StatusFutureAgriculturalFrameworkportfoliounderdevelopment.

Action & Targets

• Public consultation on policyproposals.

Future Vision/OutcomeAn industry that: is environmentally sustainableintermsofitsimpacton,andguardianshipof,air and water quality, soil health and biodiversity, while making its fair contribution to achieving netzerocarbontargets;pursuesincreasedproductivityininternationaltermsasameansofsustainedprofitability,closingtheproductivitygapwhichhasbeenopeningupwithothermajorsuppliers;displaysimprovedresiliencetoexternalshockswhichareevermorefrequentandtowhichtheindustryhasbecomeveryexposed;andwhichoperateswithinanintegrated,profitable,efficient,sustainable,competitiveandresponsivesupplychain,withcleartransmissionofmarketsignals and an overriding focus on high quality food and the end consumer.



17. Energy

Current StatusUnderthe2010StrategicEnergyFramework,theNIExecutivesetatargetthat40%ofelectricityconsumedinNIwouldcomefromrenewablesourcesby2020.Forthe12monthperiodending30June2021,45.4%oftotalelectricityconsumptioninNIwasgeneratedfromrenewable sources located here. Thishasledtoasignificantdecreaseingreenhousegasemissionsfromtheenergysupplysectorwhichhasseena45%reduction(-2.4MtCO2e)between1990and2018.Whilelaudable,itshouldbeborneinmindthattheenergysupplysectorstillaccountsfor15%ofallGHG emissions in NI.SubjecttoExecutiveapproval,anewEnergyStrategywillbepublishedbeforetheendof2021whichoutlinesthepathtoachievingnetzerocarbonenergyinawaythatissecure,affordableand clean.Actions & Targets

•Byendof2021:PublishanActionPlanthatwillidentifyarangeofsupportingactions to deliver a forthcoming Energy Strategy.

Future Vision/OutcomeTheEnergyStrategywillleadto‘netzerocarbonandaffordableenergy’.Itwilldothisbyfollowingfiveprinciples:•Placingyouattheheartofourenergyfuture;•Growthegreeneconomy;•Domorewithless;•Replacefossilfuelswithrenewableenergy;and•Createaflexible,resilientandintegratedenergysystem.



18. Productive & Sustainably Used Seas

Current StatusTheNorthernIrelandmarineareais6,819km2andprovidesopportunitiesforGreenGrowththrough a sustainable blue economy.UKMarineStrategy2018EnvironmentalStatusassessmentofcommercialfishandshellfish-GoodEnvironmentalStatuswasnotachieved,buttherehasbeenanimprovingsituationsince2012.AdraftMarinePlanforNIhasbeenproducedandconsultedonin2018.UKFisheriesAct2020establishestheframeworkformanagingallUKfisheriessustainablyasanindependentcoastalstate.FishingandaquaculturemakesanimportantcontributiontotheNorthernIrelandeconomyandinparticulartheeconomyofcoastalcommunities.In2018,therewere854fishersinNorthernIrelandandfishlandingswere22,417tonnes,withavalueofapproximately£27.7million.Indirectly,commercialfishingsupportsavarietyofotherjobs,suchasancillaryengineeringandserviceindustries.Thefishandshellfishprocessingsectoremployed643fulltimeequivalentsin2018andhadavalueofapproximately£94m.In2018aquacultureproductiontotalled4078Tonneswithavalueofapproximately£11.6m.ClimatechangepressuresontheNorthernIrelandmarineareainclude:sealevelrise,increasedstorminess,oceanacidification,andrisingtemperatures.

Actions & Targets

•Integratepost2020international marine sustainability targets into DAERA strategies.

•Adopta‘MarinePlan for Northern Ireland’in2022.

• Review the Fisheries Act (NI) 1966anddevelopfisheries policiesalignedwiththeobjectivesof the UK Fisheries Act 2020.

•Publishacomprehensivebaseline of marine Natural Capital.

• Evaluate climate change scenarios andpotentialimpactsoncoastalhabitats,fisheries&aquaculture.

• By November 2022: Publish Joint Fisheries Statement.


•Investtosupportthetransitiontoalowcarboneconomy,andtheprotectionandenhancement of blue carbon habitats and the wider marine environment.

•WorkingtoachievethefisheriesobjectivesintheUKFisheriesAct2020throughdevelopmentof Joint Fisheries Statement and Fisheries Management Plans.

•ProvideadviceonimplementationforMarinePlandelivery.•ImplementUKMarineStrategyProgrammeofMeasures.

Future Vision/OutcomeFuture vision:Our vision is a healthy NI marine area which is managed sustainably for the economic, environmentalandsocialprosperityofpresentandfuturegenerations.Weaimtoachievethisbymanagingandprotectingthemarineenvironment,preventingitsdeteriorationandrestoringitwherepractical,whileallowingsustainableuseofmarineresources,andensuringitisresilientandadaptabletoclimatechange.Outcome:Achievement of Good Environmental Status of our seas and a thriving blue economy.


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19. Producer Responsibility

Current StatusProducerresponsibilityschemescurrentlyinplacecoverpackaging,batteries,WasteElectrical&ElectronicEquipmentandEndofLifeVehicles.Producerscoveranestimated10%ofcostsinthecurrentpackagingwastescheme.Actions & Targets

• By 2030: Increase recycling of packagingfrom60% to 78%.

• From 2024: Phase in new UK wide Extended Producer ResponsibilityScheme for packaging.

• By end of 2024: 80% of full net costsofpackagingcontributed by producers.

•2024/25:IntroduceaDepositReturnSchemefor Drink Containers.

• By 2028: Increase recycling of drinks containers from 70% to 90%.

• 2022: Review ofproducerresponsibilityfor batteries.

• 2023: UK review of producerresponsibilityand increased recycling for End of Life Vehicles.

•2021/2:UKconsultationonReview of Waste Electrical &ElectronicEquipment.

Future Vision/OutcomeIncreaseintherecyclingofgoodsandpackagingafterusebyconsumer.Increaseincostsbeingrecoveredthroughproducerresponsibilityschemes.



20. Reducing Single-Use Plastic (SUP)

Current StatusDAERAissupportingawarenessraisingactionandbehaviourchangeviasocialmediaandEco-Schoolstoreducetheuseofunnecessarysingle-useplastic.TheNIExecutivehasagreedtoreduceunnecessarysingle-useplasticacrosstheNIGovernment Estate.TheMarineLitterReport2019found78%oflitteronNIbeacheswasmadeofplastic.Sixofthetoptenitemsweresingle-useplastic.TheLitterCompositionReport2019/20found71%oflittereditemsonourstreetscontainplastic.

Actions & Targets

• Restrict the sale orsupplyoftencommon single-use plasticitems.

• Set requirements for average recycled content in bottles.

• Introduce clearer labellingofproductsthat contain single-useplastic.

•Produceaconsumptionreductionplanandtargetsforsingleuseplastictakeawaycupsandfoodcontainers.

Future Vision/OutcomeSupplierstolookforsustainablealternativestosingle-useplasticproducts.Consumerstorefusesingle-useplastic,demandrefilloptionsandreuseplasticitems.Iftheseoptionsarenotfeasiblethenconsumerstorecycletheirplastic.Reducetheuseofsingleuseplasticcupsandfoodcontainers.


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21. Carrier Bags

Current StatusSince2013theNICarrierBagLevyhasremovedinexcessof1.5billionbagsfromcirculationandhashelpedsubstantiallyindeliveringacleanerandgreenercountrywhichisabetterplaceto live and do business.

Actions & Targets

• Increasethelevyto25p.

• Widen the overallscopeofthelevyto include all bagsirrespectiveofpricebyabolishingthe20pcharging threshold. • Simplifyandfutureproof

the existing legislation.

• Revisitretailer/customer education.

• Developandimplementan enhanced CarrierBag Levy IT systemto facilitate smootheradministration for bothcustomers and staff.

Future Vision/OutcomeThe levy and its outcomes are key targets in delivering sustainable waste management across NI.Behavioural shift: regular reuse of reusable bags.Reducedlitterandpollution.


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22. Chemicals

Current StatusDefraandtheDevolvedAdministrationsaredevelopingaChemicalsStrategytoensurethesafe use and management of chemicals across their lifecycle.Thiswillaimtoreducechemicalpollutionandaddresslegacysubstances,deliveringcommitmentsasoutlinedintheUK25YearEnvironmentPlanandishopedtobeUKwideinscope.

Actions & Targets

•Fulfilcommitmentsunder the Stockholm Convention as outlined in the UK National Implementation Plan.

• Eliminate the use of PolychlorinatedBiphenyls(PCBs) by 2025, in line with commitments under the Stockholm Convention.

•DevelopandpublishChemicals Strategy by 2022.

•Effectivereportingofthe large scale use of F-gases and Ozone DepletingSubstances,taking advantage of new database.

Future Vision/OutcomeContribute to wider government ambitions including the move to a circular economy, achieving netzero,reversingbiodiversityloss,andsupportingthegreenrecovery.BuildonexistingstrategiesandprinciplessetoutintheUKEnvironmentBill-inparticulartheprecautionaryandpolluterpaysprinciples.



23. Environmental Regulation: Permitting

Current StatusDAERA’sRegulatoryTransformationProgramme(RTP)willoverhaulNI’slegislativeandoperationalframeworkforenvironmentalregulation.TheEnvironmentalBetterRegulationAct(NI)2016providesenablingpowerstoreducethecomplexityofenvironmentallegislationinrespectofenvironmentalpermittingandenvironmentalpowersofentry.

Actions & Targets

• Digital transformation ofapplicationservicesfor waste, water and pollutioncontrolauthorisations.

•Digitaltransformationofsiteinspectionformsforwaste,waterandpollutioncontrol regulatory staff.

• Publication of consultation on policyproposalsfora new environmental permittingregimeduring 2022.

•Developthepolicy,subordinatelegislationandguidancerequiredforanewenvironmentalpermittingregimegoverningwaste(selectedactivities),water(discharge,abstraction&impoundment),radioactivesubstancesandpollutionpreventionandcontrol,andassociatedlegislationonpowersofentry.


Future Vision/OutcomeIntegrationofenvironmentalprotectionandeconomicgrowthinNIastheregulatoryburdenforresponsibleandcompliantoperatorsisreduced.Replacementofthecurrentsystemsforauthorisingandregulatinganumberofenvironmentalactivities with a single standardised, more streamlined and less bureaucratic regime. Higherlevelsofprotectionfortheenvironment.Ariskbasedregulatorysystemthatwillhelpresponsiblebusinessesoperateeffectivelywithinenvironmental limits.



24. Antimicrobial & Disinfectant Contamination

Current StatusDevelopmentofresistantmicroorganismsthatcausesimpleinfectionstobecomeuntreatableby current antimicrobials (AM) is one of the biggest and most imminent threats in the world.ItisacceleratedbyinappropriateuseofAMinhumansbutalsoinanimalsandplants.TheUKhasaNationalActionPlantofightantimicrobialresistance(AMR)andNIhasadoptedafiveyearactionplanwiththesameaim(2019-2024).

Actions & Targets

• Monitor AMR abattoir samplingand passive surveillance.

•ResponsibleUseof AM training programmetofarmingfamilies/employees.

•Developmentofopenaccess database of animal disease incidence in NI.

•Developwholegenomesequencingcapacityinour national laboratory.

•CaptureNIAMUsage and Sales data.

• Publish the nextfiveyearactionplanfortackling AMR beyond 2025.

Future Vision/OutcomeChange the mentality and ethos of farming with regards to AM use.Developacultureofpreventionofdiseaseratherthancure.Reductionofantibiotics,antiparasitics,antifungalsanddisinfectantscanbeachievedbypreventivemedicine,biosecurity,betterfarmstructureswithrespecttotheenvironmentanditsbiodiversityandstrongcollaborationbetweengovernment,educators,professionalsandanimalowners.



Strategic Environmental Outcome 5 Zero waste & highly developed circular economy

The Circular Economy is an economic system which reduces overall demand for resources, retains the value of resources and seeks to regenerate our natural ecosystems. By designing things differently, we can reduce overall demand for raw materials, reduce waste generation and createthingsthatretainvaluethroughouttheirentirelifecycle.Bykeepingtechnicalandnaturalmaterials in circulation for longer at their highest value we retain their embodied carbon and can increasenature’sabilitytosequestercarbon.

A circular economy is fuelled by renewable energy and while the decarbonisation of the energy sectorisanecessarypartofachievingnetzero,thecirculareconomyisanequallyessentialelementbecausebyitsapplicationwecreatemoresustainableproductionandconsumptionpatternswhichareneededtotackleresourcescarcity,inequalityandwastegeneration.

Thecirculationofnaturalmaterialscancreatenewbio-economyenterprisesandwillhelpregenerate natural systems. In a CircularEconomysystemwecreateplaceswherepeoplehavegreateraccesstoproducts,businessesthrivebybecomingmoreresourceefficientandweimprovethehealthofnaturalecosystems.

25. Circular Economy

Current StatusTheDepartmentfortheEconomy(DfE)iscurrentlydevelopingaCircularEconomyStrategicFramework (CESF) for NI.Recognising Circular Economy as a cross-cutting theme for the Executive, this work will be progressedinpartnershipwithofficialsacrossallGovernmentDepartments.Focusareashavebeenidentifiedwhichpresentthegreatestopportunitytoleadthetransition.This includes the following four business sectors: Advanced manufacturing, construction and builtenvironment,tourismandthebio-economy;andthefollowingfourmaterialflows:Food,textiles,electronicsandpackagingincludingplastics,paper,cardboardandglass.


Actions & Targets

• Publish NI CircularityGapReportby2021.

• Publish Circular Economy Strategic Framework by 2022.

•AppointmemberstoaNICircular Economy Coalition representingadiverserangeofindustries, sectors and interest.

• NI Civil Service policyreviewtoidentify and embed circularpracticesincurrentandplannedpolicy.

• Work with the following enablers to accelerate the transition to a Circular Economy: digital, education, media, central and local government andprocurementsectors.

Future Vision/OutcomeTheCESFwillprovideafirststepinsettingoutaclearvisionfortheCircularEconomyinNorthern Ireland.Itwillinformupcomingenvironmental,economicandsocialpolicydevelopment,raiseawarenesswithintheprivateandpublicsectorsaswellasthethirdsectorofwhataCircularEconomy(CE)isandwillidentifywhereopportunitiesexisttocreateamorecircularNIeconomy.ItwillincreasecollaborationandcreateajoinedupapproachtoCEacrosscentralgovernment.


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26. Waste Management

Current StatusWaste Management StrategyCurrentWasteManagementPlaninplacefrom2019asaprovisionalmeasureuntilnewWasteManagementStrategydeveloped.ClosurereportforcurrentWasteManagementStrategybeingdeveloped.UnderExtendedProducerResponsibility(EPR)schemecurrenttargetfor2022istomeeta77%overallrecyclingrateforpackaging.Prevention & ReuseNorthernIreland’sWastePreventionProgramme‘Stopping Waste in its Tracks’waspublishedin 2020.Thisprogrammeincludednewandongoingactionsaimedatimprovingwastepreventionandincreasing education and awareness.Food WasteTheFoodWasteRegulations(NI)2015provideforseparatecollection,transport&treatmentoffood waste.TheRegulationscontainarangeofmeasures,mostnotablyrequiringdistrictcouncilstoprovideforseparatecollectionoffoodwasteforhouseholdsandplacingadutyonfoodbusinessesproducinginexcessof5kgoffoodwaste/weektopresentfoodwasteforseparatecollection.Since the introduction of the Regulations, over one million tonnes of biodegradable waste have beendivertedfromlandfill,positivelyimpactingthelevelsandqualityofwasterecycling.

Actions & Targets• Publish new

Waste Management Strategy by 2023.

• Introduce new UK wide Extended Producer ResponsibilitySchemeforpackagingin2023.

•IntroduceaDepositReturn Scheme for Drink Containersin2024/25.

• Legislation to reduce the consumptionofsingleuseplasticitems(SUP).

• By 2035, send no morethan10%ofwastetolandfill.

• Bring forward all actions set out in the Waste Prevention Plan 2019.


•Worktowardssettingtargetsforwasteprevention&reuse.•IncreasenumberofbusinessesinNIparticipatinginvoluntaryfoodwastereductioninitiatives.•Workwithdeliverypartnerstodevelopbehaviourchangecampaigns.• Continued education & awareness raising initiatives to encourage the removal of as much foodwasteaspossiblefromresidualhouseholdwastestreams.

•ContinuetoworkwithfoodredistributioncharitiestouseNI’sfoodsurplustohelpfeedsomeof the most vulnerable members of society.

Future Vision/OutcomeAlowcarbon,resourceefficientsocietyinwhichresourcesarevaluedandreused,puttingthembackintotheeconomyandwasteisprevented.Increasedrecyclingrateswithtargetssettosupportthis.Changedconsumerattitudestoreuse&repairandwasteprevention.Nobiodegradablewastetolandfill.Increased food redistribution.Allinsocietyawareoftheproblemoffoodwasteandtakeactivestepstoreducethis.


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27. Illegal Waste Disposal & Fly-tipping

Current StatusSections4&5oftheWaste&ContaminatedLandAmendmentAct(NI)2011(2011Act),oncecommenced,willprovideanalogouspowerstobothDAERAanddistrictcouncilsinaddressingillegalwastedisposalincludingfly-tipping(enforcementandcleanup).Inpreparationforcommencement,DAERAhasbeenworkinginpartnershipwithcouncilsthroughtheLocal&CentralGovernmentWasteWorkingGroup(GWWG)andtheNIStrategicWastePartnership(NISWP)toagreeanoperationalprotocol(the ‘Fly-tipping Protocol’) which providesthedemarcationofrolesandresponsibilitiesofeach.TheprotocolwasagreedinprinciplebytheGWWG/NISWPbutinrecognitionthatitwillbeforeachindividualcounciltosignup.AsofJune2021,sevenofthe11councilshavecommittedtotheprotocol.Theremaining 4 remain in discussion with DAERA.Commencementhasbeenpostponedpendinganassessmentoftheresourcerequirementsexpectedtobeemployedbyacouncilinutilisingtheadditionalenforcementpowersavailable.

Actions & Targets

n

• Commence outstanding sections of 2011Act.

• Secure agreement totheprotocolofall11councils.

• DAERA and councils to review protocolannually.

•Consistentapproachtodata collection across NI regardingFly-tippingandillegalwastedisposal.

•Scopingofa fly-tippingapptoimprovedatarecording.

•Developprocessforimproveddata recording.


Future Vision/OutcomeTheprotocolisadoptedandimplementedbyall11districtcouncilsandtheoutstandingsectionsofthe2011Actcommenced.DAERAandall11councilswillhavethefullrangeofpowersavailable.Aclearanduniversallyagreedapproachtotacklingfly-tipping.Apartnershipapproachthatincludesthedevelopmentofsystemsandprocesseswhichwillbetterrecordthelevelsofillegaldisposalandfly-tipping(includingenforcementand clean-upcosts).

Actions also contribute to SEOs UNSustainableDevelopmentGoals1 2 3 6


Strategic Environmental Outcome 6 Fair Contribution to UK net zero greenhouse gas emissions

& improved climate resilience and adaptability

Thereisbroadacceptanceofthedesirabilityofshiftingtowardsalow-carboneconomyandensuringsocietycanrespondandadapttotheimpactsofclimatechange.NorthernIrelandistheonlypartoftheUKwhichdoesnothavebespokelocalclimatechangelegislation.TheExecutiveiscommitted to delivering a Climate Change Act for Northern Ireland and growing a low carbon skills basetoenableNorthernIrelandtoplayitspartinlimitingtheriseinglobaltemperaturesto1.5oC.

28. Climate Change

Current StatusLegislationThe UK Climate Change Act 2008 extends to Northern Ireland, and Northern Ireland must contribute to the UK-wide net zero by 2050 target under that Act.NorthernIrelandiscurrentlytheonlypartoftheUKwhichdoesnothavebespokelocalclimatechangelegislationwhichcomplementstheUKClimateChangeAct2008.TheNewDecadeNewApproachagreementincludedacommitmenttobringforwardaClimateChange Act for Northern Ireland. ETSUKEmissionsTradingScheme(ETS)hasbeenimplementedtoreplaceEUETSfromJanuary2021.NIparticipatesinboththeUKandEUETS.UKETSoperatesa‘cap and trade’ system designed to reduce the effects of CO2 emissions on climate from energy intensive industrial and electricity generating installations.TheschemesetsacaponthetotalGreenhouseGasesthatcanbeemitted.Emissionsallowances can be traded.TheUKETSisverysimilartotheEUETS,howeverithasa5%lowercapinlightoftheUK’sclimate ambitions.


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• Achieve legislative passageofaNorthern Ireland Climate Change Bill to deliver on NDNA commitments.

• By 2024, legislative amendments to UK ETS to be in force.

• Deliver carbon budgets in order to meet challenging net greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets.

•ConsiderexpandingscopeofUKETStoinclude additional sectorsin2021.

• Consultation onUKETScapreviewinlate2021.

•ThedevelopmentanddeliveryofappropriatepoliciesbyallDepartmentsinordertoachievechallenging net greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets and carbon budgets.

•ReviewofdesignofUKETStoincluderevisionofpolicyforfreeallocationofcarbonallowancesin2021.

•Analysisofimpactofreducedcapscenariostoinformpolicydevelopmentin2021.

Future Vision/Outcome

EnactmentofaNorthernIrelandClimateChangeBillcontainingstatutoryfiveyearlycarbonbudgets,interimandlongtermGHGemissionsreductiontargets,anddutieswhichcomplementsclimatechangeadaptationrequirementsundertheUKClimateChangeAct2008.NI’sfaircontributiontoUK-widenetzerotargetby2050.ReduceunnecessaryemissionsandreviewcaponnumberofcarbonallowancesinUKETS.Transition to a net zero carbon and affordable energy system.


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6. Departmental Activities

Whilstitisincumbentuponallofustoplayourpartinprotectingtheenvironment,thepublicsectorshouldbeseentoleadbyexampleanditisdoingsoinavarietyofways.

TheNICivilService(NICS)iscommittingtogovernmentbuildingsbeing100%suppliedbyrenewables.Governmentisasignificantenergyuserandthismoveto100%renewableelectricitywillhelpusinthetransitiontoloweremissions.EnergysavingsandtheconsequentialreductionincarbonacrossalldepartmentsfeedintothewiderEnergyManagementStrategyandActionPlanto2030thatwasapprovedbytheNICSboardinJanuary2019forthecentralgovernment estate.

AspartoftheNICSwideNewWaysofWorkingReview,aseriesofregionalhubswillbeestablishedacrossNItoenablecivilservantstouseofficespaceclosertohome.TheseConnect2 hubs will contribute to a reduction in emissions by cutting down on the number of cars travelling long distances on unnecessary journeys.

TheDepartmentofFinancehassustainableconstructiondesignrecommendationsthatcanfacilitateenergy/carbonefficiencytargetsfornewbuildconstructionandrefurbishmentprojectsbeyond the requirements of local Building Regulations.

TheDepartmentforCommunities(DfC)haspublisheditsClimateChangeActionPlanfor2021/22.Thisincludescommitmentsaroundconsiderationofhowtoprogresstheretrofittingofhomestomeetcommitmentsonemissions;buildingfurtheronenvironmentalstandardsinregenerationinterventions;andembeddingclimatechangeissuesmoreexplicitlyingrantconditionsandininvestmentdecisions.TheDepartmenthasidentifiedfundingforaClimateChangeFundtoassistinreducingitscarbonfootprint.ElementsofthisconnecttotheDepartment’sworkacrossitsresponsibilities,includingaSportsStrategy,andensuringthattheopportunitiesinGreenGrowthreadacrosstoemployabilityandskillsprogrammes.

ClimateChangerelatedchallengesmayhavesignificantimplicationsforheritageassetsovercomingyears,withthepotentialtoaccelerate/exacerbatemanydecaymechanisms.DfChasthepolicyleadforthehistoricenvironment,workingwithcolleaguesacrossotherdepartmentsandwithinlocalgovernmenttoidentifyandaddressclimatechangeimpactsonculturalheritageandsharedchallengesoropportunities.DfChasengagedwithdistrictcouncilsthroughtheirCommunityPlanningprocesstoadvisethemofthepotentialofthehistoricenvironmentandprovideadvicethroughtheLocalDevelopmentPlanprocesstowarddevelopingplanpolicieswhichconserve,protectandenhancethehistoricenvironment-includingstepstoconsiderthefutureimpactsofclimatechange.TheProtocolfortheCareoftheGovernmentHistoricEstatecommitsExecutiveDepartmentsandtheirArm’sLengthBodiestoleadbyexamplein their management of these assets, and includes requirements to embed climate change considerations in doing so.


TheDepartmentforInfrastructurehasmadesignificantinvestmentinpromotingwalking,wheelingandcyclingandsustainablepublictransporttoreducetheharmfuleffectsoftransportemissions.ItsBlue/GreenInfrastructureFundisbeingusedtosupportotherDepartmentsandpublicsectorbodiestoinvestinprojectswhichbenefittheenvironment,includingcreationofgreenwaysandactivetravelschemes.DfIhasintroducedapilotschemetotrialelectricvehicleswithintheDepartment’soperationalfleetandisworkingtoreducedieselemissionsfromtheStrangford Ferry Service.

Alldepartmentsarecontinuingtotakestepstominimisewasteproductionandactivelyencourage recycling across all NICS buildings. The NICS wide Plastic Reduction Plan will reduceunnecessarysingleuseplasticsthroughoutthegovernmentestate.DAERAiscurrentlyimplementingtheplan,workingwithsuppliers,officialsandCPDtoremoveunnecessaryplasticswherepossible.AnoutrightbanwillcomeintoforceinOctober2021.

TheDepartmentofJusticeisseekingtoreversebiodiversitylossacrossitsestatebyestablishinganoverarchingdepartmentalactionplan.Workhasalreadybeenundertakenonsome of its sites to create and enhance wildlife habitats including management of an Area of SpecialScientificInterest(ASSI).

Demonstratingitscommitmenttoleadingbyexample,DAERAinpartnershipwithKeepNIBeautiful,isseekingtobecometheworld’sfirstgovernmentdepartmenttoachieve ‘Eco-Department’status.ThiswillbuildonNorthernIreland’sprevioussuccessesinthe well-established Eco-Schools Programme in which Northern Ireland has already scored two world-firsts-thefirstGreenFlagAward(DownpatrickNursery,1994-nowtheoldestGreenFlagintheworld)andthefirstmembercountrytohaveeveryschoolsigneduptothescheme(2015).

Thisground-breakingundertakinghighlightsastakeholderdriven,bottomupapproachtopracticalenvironmentalmanagementandalongtermpledgetocontinuousenvironmentalimprovement.TheFoundationforEnvironmentalEducation,theworld’slargestenvironmentaleducationorganisation,willoverseetherigorous7-stepassessmentprocess,whichwillultimatelycreateabalancedenvironmentallyresponsibleethosandstrongenvironmentalperformancewithinDAERA.

Thedepartmentalreviewprocessconsistsofthekeyprogrammethemesoflitter&waste,energy,waterconservation&protectionandrestorationorimprovement,transport&travel,biodiversity,greeninformation&communicationandcanonlypositivelyimpactanddeliverconsiderablebenefitstoeveryoneinNorthernIreland.TheprestigiousGreenFlagawardisaglobalsymbolofpositiveenvironmentalandsocialaction.

TheDepartmentofEducationpublishedtheNIExecutive’s‘Children & Young People’s Strategy 2020-2030’(CYPS)inJanuary2021.CYPSaimstosupporttherightsandimprovethewell-beingofallourchildrenandyoungpeople,includingtheirenvironmentalwell-being.CYPSseekstobuildontheinterestthatchildrenandyoungpeoplealreadyhaveintheenvironmentandprovideopportunitiesforthemtoaccessandinteractwiththenaturalenvironmentathome,inschoolandindailyactivities;andworktoimproveandenhancethequalityofthe


environmentsinwhichtheylive,learnandplay.Itisimportantthatchildrenandyoungpeoplehaveanunderstandingofandrespectfortheenvironment;thattheyhaveaccesstothenaturalenvironment;andthattheyliveinenvironmentswhichpromotetheirhealthandwell-being.

TheExecutiveOfficeisdirectlyencouragingsustainableandenvironmentalapproachestoregenerationisinitsengagementwithyoungpeopleaspartofthe‘Together: Building a United Community (T:BUC) Strategy’. One of the headline actions of the T:BUC Strategy is engagement throughtheT:BUCCampsProgramme,deliveredinpartnershipwiththeDepartmentofEducation and the Education Authority.

TheUrbanVillagesInitiativeaimstofosterpositivecommunityidentities;buildcommunitycapacity;andimprovethephysicalenvironment.Projectsseekto:improvephysicalandmental-health;encouragepublicengagementwiththeenvironment(includingschoolandcommunitybasedelements);andenhancewayscentralandlocalgovernmentandcommunitiescanworkbetter together.


7. Next Steps

Office for Environmental ProtectionSubjecttotheapprovaloftheNIAssembly,itisintendedthattheOEPwillbecomefullyfunctional in Northern Ireland as soon after the Environment Bill receives Royal Assent as is practicable.

NorthernIrelandhasalreadybeenintegratedintothecomplaintshandlingfunctionoftheInterimEnvironmentalGovernanceSecretariat(IEGS)sinceitsinceptioninJanuary2021and,astheIEGStransitionsintothewiderremitoftheInterimOEPfromJuly2021,itishopedthatNorthernIreland’sproposedroleandinfluenceinthenewbodywillbroadentoo.

Inthemeantime,DAERAofficialsareworkingverycloselywithcolleaguesinDefraandtheChair-designateoftheOEP,DameGlenysStacey,toensurethatallpossiblepreparatoryworkwillhavebeencompletedingoodtimetoensuretheOEPcanhitthegroundrunningwhenitisestablished as a statutory body.

Northern Ireland’s Environmental Improvement PlanTheprovisionsoftheEnvironmentBilldonotrequiretheEnvironmentStrategytobeformallyadoptedastheEIPalthoughitisanticipatedthattheDAERAMinisterwillmakeastatementforclarity.TheStrategywillbecomeNI’sfirstEIPeitherwhenthestrategyispublishedorwhentherelevantprovisionoftheBilliscommenced,whicheverislater.

ImplementationWhilstthisisahighlevelstrategysettingtheExecutive’sdirectionoftravelforourenvironmentover the coming decades, greater detail on actions, targets and desired future outcomes will be providedduringthedevelopmentandimplementationofthevariousStrategies,ActionPlansand Programmes which will sit under the umbrella of the Environment Strategy. The detail aroundthevariousImpactAssessmentstobecompletedwillthereforebecontainedwithinthoseresultantStrategies,ActionPlansandProgrammesasitwouldnotbepracticabletohavethemaccompanythisStrategy.


8. How To Respond

Tomakethisconsultationasaccessibleaspossible,weareusingNIDirect’sCitizenSpaceasourresponseroute2forcollatingresponses.

YoucanrespondtothisconsultationattheNIDirectConsultationHub:

Citizen Space: https://consultations.nidirect.gov.ukJust click on the link and follow the questions in order.

Earlyresponsesareencouragedbutresponsesshouldarrivenolaterthan

4pm Tuesday 18 January 2022. BeforeyousubmityourresponsepleasereadSection9below,whichgivesguidanceonthelegalposition.

If you require any further information, contact Lisa Frazer on 028 9056 9497 or [email protected]

2Ifyouprefer,[email protected].


9. Freedom of Information Act 2000: Confidentiality of Consultations

TheDepartmentwillpublishasummaryofresponsesfollowingcompletionoftheconsultationprocess.Yourresponse,andallotherresponsestotheconsultation,maybedisclosedonrequest.TheDepartmentcanrefusetodiscloseinformationonlyinexceptionalcircumstances.

Beforeyousubmityourresponse,pleasereadtheparagraphsbelowontheconfidentialityofconsultationsandtheywillgiveyouguidanceonthelegalpositionaboutanyinformationgivenbyyouinresponsetothisconsultation.

TheFreedomofInformationAct2000givesthepublicarightofaccesstoanyinformationheldbyapublicauthority(theDepartmentinthiscase).Thisrightofaccesstoinformationincludesinformationprovidedinresponsetoaconsultation.TheDepartmentcannotautomaticallyconsiderasconfidentialinformationsuppliedtoitinresponsetoaconsultation.However,itdoeshavetheresponsibilitytodecidewhetheranyinformationprovidedbyyouinresponsetothisconsultation,includinginformationaboutyouridentity,shouldbemadepublicortreatedasconfidential.

Thismeansthatinformationprovidedbyyouinresponsetotheconsultationisunlikelytobetreatedasconfidential,exceptinveryparticularcircumstances.

TheLordChancellor’sCodeofPracticeontheFreedomofInformationActprovidesthat:

•theDepartmentshouldonlyacceptinformationfromthirdpartiesinconfidenceifitis necessary to obtain that information in connection with the exercise of any of the Department’sfunctionsanditwouldnototherwisebeprovided;

•theDepartmentshouldnotagreetoholdinformationreceivedfromthirdparties‘inconfidence’whichisnotconfidentialinnature;

•acceptancebytheDepartmentofconfidentialityprovisionsmustbeforgoodreasons,capableofbeingjustifiedtotheInformationCommissioner.

Forfurtherinformationaboutconfidentialityofresponses,pleasecontacttheInformationCommissioner’sOffice3.

3 Tel: (028) 9027 8757 Email: [email protected] Web: https://ico.org.uk


Annex A - Public Discussion Exercise

The2019/20PublicDiscussionDocumentonaproposedEnvironmentStrategyreceived2,500substantiveresponsesfromawiderangeofstakeholders.AsummaryreportoftheexercisewaspublishedinNovember2020.

Theresponsesreceivedwerebroadlysupportive,forexample90%+supportfortheEnvironmentStrategytobeanExecutiveendorsedstrategy.Respondentswantedtheenvironmenttobeatoppriority.

Goodgovernanceandextensivecollaborationinimplementingthestrategywerefelttobeessentialrequirements,withkeythemesbeing:climatechange;recycling&waste;biodiversity;sustainability;education&awareness;health&well-being;agriculture;energy;transport;andprotectingtheeconomy.

Respondentsindicatedtheneedforoutcomesandtargetstobespecificandrealistic,withresults which are tangible, measurable (with adequate monitoring & enforcement) and time-bound.TheStrategywasseenasakeyopportunitytodriveupenvironmentalstandards.

DMS 21.22.099

All enquiries to:

Neighbourhood Environment Quality Unit DAERA 2nd Floor, Klondyke Building Cromac Avenue Gasworks Business Park BELFAST BT7 2JA

Tel: 028 9056 9497 Email: [email protected]

www.daera-ni.gov.uk

Draft Environment Strategy

Documents

Transcript of Draft Environment Strategy