Recycling on agenda at Northern environment talks
The British government identified waste management, sustainable development and recycling today as the pillars of its environmental policy for the next decade.
Northern Ireland Office Minister Jeff Rooker also called for the creation of National Parks in the North.
Mr Rooker told representatives from the farming, industrial, environmental and education sectors that ministers wanted their views to form part of the 10-year initiative.
The minister announced a consultation on a new Waste Management Strategy and told a Belfast conference: “The new proposals will provide a robust framework for meeting our waste-management needs and improving our use of resources.”
Mr Rooker also described sustainable development as a keystone of government policy in the North.
He said: “Waste is one of the dragons we must slay to become a sustainable society.
“Recycling contributes to the economy and through diversification of use encourages new business and tourism.”
On the development of National Parks, Mr Rooker said the issue was not just about conservation of the landscape.
“It is about supporting communities in an integrated way so that any designated area has life and vibrancy,” he said.
“I am keen to move the process forward as quickly as possible and build on support which clearly exists for the establishment of National Parks in Northern Ireland.”
The minister said work was continuing on proposals for a National Park in Mourne, Co Down.
Mr Rooker urged more delegates to work with the Brtiish government to transform the proposals into reality.
Looking to the future, Richard Rogers, chief executive of the Environment and Heritage Service, said: “Our vision is that in 10 years our environment will be both well-protected and highly valued by the whole community.
“The agency is dedicated to working with others to achieve that.
“It is vital we succeed, for the sake of the whole community and for future generations of people in Northern Ireland.”
