Its first investigation in NI was sparked by complaints from members of the public
The UK's environment watchdog has launched its first case in Northern Ireland over a Stormont Department's guidance to planners on ammonia emissions.
Cattle are responsible for around 62% of these emission, the poultry sector 14%, pigs produce 8.7 % of NI agri-emissions with 8.3% coming from fertiliser and sheep are responsible for 0.8% with the spreading of digestate to land accounting for 4.1%. DAERA itself says "excessive nitrogen deposition can lead to significant biodiversity loss through loss of plant species and changes in ecosystem structure and function" and their own NI Environmental Statistics Report show they are failing their own targets on 40% of protected habitats.
Ms Prosser said: "Unsatisfactory ammonia pollution is an important, longstanding, systemic issue and one of the most pressing environmental concerns at this time in Northern Ireland. From an already unsustainable level the 19% increase in ammonia emissions from agriculture between 2009 and 2019 is a stark illustration of this.
But where a satisfactory outcome cannot be reached through these means, the OEP can use its stricter enforcement powers including, if necessary, through court proceedings.
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Daera investigated by environment watchdog over ammonia guidanceStormont's environment department daera_ni is being investigated by the UK's environment watchdog OfficeforEP over its ammonia guidance
Read more »
Daera investigated by environment watchdog over ammonia guidanceIt is the first time the UK's environment watchdog has started an investigation in Northern Ireland.
Read more »
Home Office launches probe after body of asylum seeker found at hotelThe Home Office has launched a probe after the body of an asylum seeker was discovered in Leicestershire. He's thought to have died awaiting the outcome of an asylum claim while living at a government-run hotel.
Read more »
Met Office weather forecast for Leeds today - including UV levelsThe Met Office has warned of high UV levels in some parts of England, which means people should avoid exposing themselves to the sun
Read more »
UK asset manager Ruffer to open New York office\n\t\t\tExpert insights, analysis and smart data help you cut through the noise to spot trends,\n\t\t\trisks and opportunities.\n\t\t\n\t\tJoin over 300,000 Finance professionals who already subscribe to the FT.
Read more »
UK asset manager Ruffer to open New York office\n\t\t\tExpert insights, analysis and smart data help you cut through the noise to spot trends,\n\t\t\trisks and opportunities.\n\t\t\n\t\tJoin over 300,000 Finance professionals who already subscribe to the FT.
Read more »