Peter McEvoy, Director of Land Management at Ulster Wildlife, said: 

"The publication of Northern Ireland’s Nature Recovery Strategy is an important step, but given the scale and urgency of the nature crisis, the real test is what happens next. 
 
“We now need clear, measurable outcomes for nature, backed by long-term investment, clear targets, delivery milestones, and named responsibilities. Action must be delivered at a scale capable of reversing biodiversity decline. 

“Nature recovery must also be recognised as central to addressing the many environmental challenges we face. Restoring peatlands, wetlands, rivers, woodlands, and other habitats can help nature recover, tackle climate change, improve water quality, and reduce flood risk. Working with local communities, farmers, and land managers can help turn these ambitions into lasting benefits for nature and people. 

“One in nine species is threatened with extinction, our habitats are in poor condition, and the wildlife we should be protecting is under immense pressure. We cannot afford another strategy that falls short of what nature needs. 

"Publication today must mark the start of delivery, with coordinated action across government and wider society to secure lasting recovery for nature across Northern Ireland.” 

Read the Nature Recovery Strategy for Northern Ireland to 2032