New poll shows people want the next NI Assembly to deliver for nature and climate 

By Q Radio News

Nature and the Climate Change Crisis are top of the agenda for voters ahead of May's assembly elections according to a poll commissioned by the RSPB about what people in Northern Ireland want in the next mandate.

The poll found that more than three quarters of voters here would back an independent Environmental Protection Agency in Northern Ireland.

The poll was released alongside RSPB NI’s Manifesto which is asking prospective political representatives to deliver outcomes for nature and climate in the next Assembly term.  

The poll, conducted by LucidTalk on behalf of RSPB NI, demonstrates a link between public opinion and calls from environmentalists and conservation organisations.  

Key findings show that 74% of people support the creation of an independent Environmental Protection Agency to enhance environmental protection in Northern Ireland.

A majority (90%) felt that it is important that any renewable energy developments introduced should not impact on species and habitats as society transitions to net zero carbon emissions.  

Protection of wildlife also scored well, with 93% of respondents believing that it is important to tackle wildlife persecution and 89% of respondents in favour of a Seabird Conservation Strategy.  

Joanne Sherwood, Director at RSPB NI, commented on the findings:

“Over the last few years, and most recently with the passing of the Climate Change Bill, we’ve witnessed increased public demand for our politicians to address the nature and climate emergency.

''This recent poll reinforces this and shows that the public want to see nature restored and protected as a means to tackle climate change.   

The next Assembly term takes us towards 2030 when many of our key environmental targets are due to be met, therefore, as a conservation charity, we’ve listened and have developed a Manifesto for Nature.  

''This outlines key actions we believe politicians who want to address the nature and climate emergency should commit to ahead of the election.”  

Joanne Sherwood

For more information on the RSPB NI’s Manifesto for Nature, visit https://bit.ly/RSPBNIManifestoAction  

RSPB NI Director, Joanne Sherwood [left] and Head of Policy and Advocacy, John Martin [right], are joined by RSPB NI Youth Campaigner, Paul John, at Stormont to launch RSPB NI's Manifesto for Nature.