Northern Ireland Environmental Statistics Report released 29/05/25
Date published:
The Northern Ireland Environmental Statistics Report has been published today by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA).
This statistical report is produced annually and contains information on a range of environmental indicators in Northern Ireland.
The key points are:
Public Attitudes
The level of public concern about environmental issues was high in 2024/25, with 73% very or fairly concerned about the environment.
Pollution of air, water and soil and illegal dumping of waste and litter were the greatest environmental concerns for households (28 and 27% respectively) in Northern Ireland in 2024/25.
Air & Climate
Roadside nitrogen dioxide levels have decreased from 40.6g/m3 in 2012 to 22.6g/m3 in 2024.
In 2022, Northern Ireland's greenhouse gas emissions were estimated to be 21.3 MtCO2e, a reduction of 26% since 1990 baseline levels.
Water and Marine
In 2024 Soluble Reactive Phosphorus (SRP) was measured at 93 surveillance rivers across Northern Ireland giving an average concentration of 0.065 mg/l of phosphorus per litre of water.
Of the twenty-five inshore coastal waterbodies delineated in Northern Ireland, 13 (52%) have been assessed at good or better ecological condition.
In 2024, there were 1,886 water pollution incidents reported, of which 887 (47%) were substantiated (confirmed) as having an impact on the water quality of the receiving waterway.
Biodiversity
In 2024/25, 54% of features within Marine and Terrestrial protected sites were in Favourable condition while 38% were in Unfavourable condition.
Historical Environment
Listed buildings are those of special architectural or historic interest. The number of listed buildings in 2023/24 was 9,124, an increase of 11% compared to 2003/04.
