NI carrier bag levy provides £2.2m for environment projects

The Environment Fund 2020/21 uses the proceeds of the carrier bag levy, introduced in April 2013, to enable not-for-profit organisations and councils to deliver environmental outcomes initiatives.

Among those to be funded are projects to recruit and train volunteers for large scale bird monitoring surveys; carry out habitat and species conservation activities; maintain and promote long-distance walking routes and encourage recycling.

Grants for each of these projects range from £6,746 to £257,468.

The Minister for Agriculture Edwin Poots announced the fund yesterday at Belfast’s Window on Wildlife, which has received funding that contributes to the allocation of wardens at RSPB reserves.

“I am pleased to announce this significant funding, derived from the carrier bag levy, which will enable organisations to continue to protect our landscape, habitats and species and promote health and well-being so that we can all enjoy our natural environment,” he said.

“Prior to the carrier bag levy being introduced in 2013, 300 million single use bags were used each year in Northern Ireland, filling up landfill, suffocating our seas and damaging our habitats and wildlife.

“The £2.2m generated from the levy will help socially conscious organisations protect and enhance our environment and showcases my department’s commitment to find innovative and simple solutions that have big benefits.

“I want to see even more practical measures that will make a real difference and ensure we leave our environment in an even better shape than we found it.”

Craig McGuicken, chief executive of Northern Ireland Environment Link, said: “The announcement of the Environment Fund is excellent news for everyone interested in the environment of Northern Ireland.

“This funding provides essential support to our environmental NGOs, helping to deliver on-the-ground action, as well as allowing for long-term planning.

“At a time when public concern and interest in environmental matters is at a high, this is welcome news.”

Joanne Sherwood, RSPB NI director, said that nature-based solutions play a “crucial role” in tackling the climate and nature crisis.

“We are looking forward to continuing to work with the minister,” she added.