THE incoming government has been given a clear roadmap, which it must begin to implement immediately if the shortcomings in Irish environmental performance is to be addressed.
The Environmental Protection Agency yesterday launched its strategy document, 2020 Vision: Protecting and Improving Ireland’s Environment.
It identified six areas where Ireland is currently falling short in its environmental duties and where action must be taken by the new government by 2010.
The areas are climate change, clean air, protected water resources, protected soil and biodiversity, sustainable use of resources, integration and enforcement.
On climate change, it said greenhouse gas emission levels are currently 25% above 1990 levels, far from the commitment given under the Kyoto Agreement to have that figure down to 13% before 2012.
It suggested an emissions reduction programme and/or the purchase of emissions allowances from countries that have successfully lowered emissions.
In the area of clean air, the EPA said long term exposure to air pollutants can lead to a reduced life expectancy from diseases such as cardiovascular disease and chronic bronchitis.
While Ireland’s air quality is very good by international standards, the EPA said that must be maintained and Ireland must fully embrace the EU’s clean air for Europe programme.
Water protection is a key area in Ireland as the EPA said there is widespread contamination of groundwater and the number of quality water sites in river and lakes is dwindling.
It said the new government must take steps including eliminating the contamination of drinking water and must fully comply with the EU water framework directive.
In the area of soil and biodiversity, the EPA pointed out a number of native Irish species and their habitats are under threat from the spread of urban areas, intensification of agriculture and forestry plantation. It said government policy must reflect and support the conservation of biodiversity.
Ireland currently uses natural resources inefficiently and creates too much waste, according to the EPA. It warns that natural resources will be depleted if that trend continues.
It makes a variety of suggestions on how Ireland’s waste strategy can be improved, including the role of industry in controlling its packaging.
Irish Examiner
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