DAERA outlines progress in tackling ammonia pollution

The Northern Irish government has announced progress in its work to help farmers better protect the environment from the impact of ammonia.

The move is in response to the “Making Ammonia Visible” report produced by the Expert Working Group on Sustainable Agricultural Land Management for Northern Ireland, which made a series of recommendations on the issue.

The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) said the challenge facing both farmers and the Department on ammonia highlighted the importance of a balanced approach which supports a prosperous agri-food industry whilst protecting the environment.

Ammonia is a pungent gas produced in relatively large quantities from animal waste, concentrations of which are greatest in areas with the most livestock farming.

According to DAERA, when released into the atmosphere, it increases the levels of air pollutants that are harmful to human health.

Agriculture is the dominant source of ammonia emissions, making up 93% of Northern Ireland’s current emission levels, according to the department.

'Win-win'

David Small, DAERA’s Director of Environment Group, said the industry must start reducing ammonia levels to meet national and international statutory obligations.

“Our farmers are the custodians of the land and, as such, we want to work in partnership with them to deliver a win-win for farmers and the environment with improved biodiversity, air and water quality and profitable farm businesses,” Mr Small said.

“Working together to tackle pollution is nothing new. There is a history of the Department and farmers working in collaboration to address key environmental challenges. Farmers have made good progress on water quality through the Nitrates Action Programme, and also on the carbon intensity of food production.”

DAERA said early progress has been made on addressing a key theme of “Making Ammonia Visible”; strengthening the scientific evidence base around ammonia emissions.

The Department has commissioned a scientific research programme on ammonia which will provide critical information on how best to address ammonia emissions, including through 20-30 new air quality monitoring sites.

As part of the Action Plan, the Department has also commenced work on a review of its operational planning and permitting policy.

Planning woes

The announced progress follows news of discontent in the agricultural industry regarding the controversial subject.

The Ulster Farmers' Union (UFU) recently said the delay farmers face in planning applications as a result of ammonia regulations is "farcical".

In response, DAERA said it "fully appreciates the frustration". In considering the applications, the Department said it is obliged to take account of evolving case law, existing environmental conditions and the nature of planning consultations received.

DAERA said it is now in a position to start issuing responses to the planning authorities on these applications. This process should be completed next month, it says.

Applicants will either know if their application has been recommended for approval or refusal, or if further information is required before a decision can be reached.