The latest figures were published by AEA Technology (AEAT) on behalf of Defra and the Devolved Administrations and show that Northern Ireland’s emissions have decreased from 1990 levels by 6% for greenhouse gases and 4% for carbon dioxide.
Environment Minister Arlene Foster MLA welcomed the drop but noted there is some inconsistency in the figures from previous trends which may be reflective of improved methodologies and data sources rather than real reductions in emissions. She said, “I welcome the publication of the latest figures on greenhouse gas emissions and the indication that emissions have decreased from 1990 Kyoto baseline levels. However, it is clear that there is considerable variability in the underlying message on emission levels in Northern Ireland, given that last year’s publication of the 1990-2004 figures showed an increase over 1990 levels. So I welcome the fact that emissions seem to have declined compared to 1990, but much work is necessary to ensure that the stated improvements in methodology and data sources in the publication reflect reality. It remains the case that power stations and road transport are our most significant emission sources.
“I look forward to more consistency in the presentation of Northern Ireland figures on this very important issue and my officials will be working to establish a firmer baseline for the measurement of emissions.”
Notes to Editors:
- The Greenhouse Gas Inventory Report for England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland is an annual report compiled on behalf of DEFRA and the Devolved Administrations by AEA Technology (AEAT). It presents estimates of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions inventories for the constituent countries of the UK. The GHGs reported on are the ‘Basket of 6 (Bo6)’, carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), hydrofluorocarbons (HFC), perfluorocarbons (PFC), and sulphur hexafluoride (SF6).
- The UK has a Kyoto target to reduce GHG emissions by 12.5% (below 1990 levels) by 2008-2012 and national targets to reduce CO2 emissions by 20% by 2010 and 60% by 2050. Latest figures show that the UK is well on course to meet its Kyoto GHG target (15.8% reduction) but not the national 2010 CO2 target (6.4% reduction).
- The Northern Ireland Sustainable Development Strategy, published in May 2006, commits Northern Ireland to a reduction of 25% in GHG emissions and 30% CO2 emissions below 1990 levels by 2025.
- AEAT continually attempts to revise and improve data acquisition and estimates of greenhouse gases in the report. Changes are applied to all historic figures as well as the latest year. Revisions to methodology can substantially affect the figures produced. The full report can be found on the National Atmospheric Emissions Inventory website
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