Green Growth Strategy for Northern Ireland
Read the full reportThe 'Green Growth Strategy' report highlights the critical role of sustainable land management and peatland restoration in achieving Northern Ireland's net zero emissions target by 2050. It focuses on the need for a statutory Green Growth test to ensure policies support soil health and carbon sequestration, with evidence showing that these practices significantly reduce soil erosion, enhance carbon storage, and improve overall soil health.
The “Green Growth Strategy” report outlines several initiatives and frameworks aimed at achieving net zero emissions in Northern Ireland by 2050, emphasising sustainable practices, economic growth, and environmental protection.
Emphasises the importance of sustainable land management practices, which are crucial for enhancing soil health and carbon sequestration.
Peatland restoration and soil conservation measures are highlighted as critical actions for improving soil carbon storage and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
The report identifies the need for a statutory Green Growth test to ensure that all policies and programs consider their impact on soil health and carbon sequestration.
Evidence from studies and case examples in the report highlight the benefits of sustainable land management practices in reducing soil erosion, increasing soil carbon storage, and enhancing overall soil health.
Restoration projects in peatlands have shown significant improvements in carbon sequestration and soil health metrics.
Recommendations for policy implementation
- Implement soil conservation measures to reduce degradation and enhance soil organic carbon content.
- Invest in the restoration of degraded peatlands and other carbon-rich soils to improve their condition and carbon sequestration capacity.
- Encourage sustainable land management practices that protect and enhance soil health.