Environmental Assessment

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) assesses and notifies the public and policy makers of the general state of the environment. It publishes State of the Environment Reports every four years.

The EPA uses Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technologies to assess the environment and track changes that occur over time. It also assess the changes in land cover and the effects of these changes on the environment over time.

Ireland's Environment 2020 offers the most recent information on the State of the Environment in Ireland. It provides an update on environmental challenges that we face both nationally and globally.

The aim of the state of the environment and indicator reports is to provide ongoing, timely information and knowledge to the general public, as well as to policymakers and to key economic sectors to support action to protect and manage the environment.

The overall conclusion of the report is that Ireland's environment is in good condition, although several key challenges are expected in the coming years. The report highlights seven key environmental actions for Ireland (EPA, 2020):

  1. Environment Health & Well-being: Recognition of the benefits of a good quality environment to health and well-being
  2. Climate Change: Accelerate mitigation actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and implement adaptation measures to increase our resilience in dealing with adverse climate impacts
  3. Implementation of Legislation: Improve the tracking of plans and policies and the implementation and enforcement of environmental legislation to protect the environment
  4. Restore & Protect Water Quality: Implement measures that achieve ongoing improvements in the environmental status of water bodies from source to the sea
  5. Nature & Wild Places: Protect pristine and wild places that act as biodiversity hubs, contribute to health and well-being and provide sustainable tourism opportunities
  6. Sustainable Economic Activities: Integrate resource efficiency and environmental sustainability ideas and performance accounting across all economic sectors
  7. Community Engagement: Inform, engage and support communities in the protection and improvement of the environment

Click on each of the following links to learn more about each of these areas: Environmental Health and Well-Being, Climate Change, Water Quality, Nature and Wild Places, Sustainability, and Community Engagement.


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