Urgent Report: Ireland’s Environment in ‘Very Poor’ Condition

URGENT UPDATE: Ireland’s natural environment has been classified as in a “very poor” state according to a damning new report from the European Environment Agency (EEA). This urgent analysis reveals that the country’s rapid economic growth has come at a significant environmental cost, raising alarms for policymakers and citizens alike.

The State of Europe’s Environment report, released on Monday, July 15, 2025, highlights critical issues affecting Ireland’s natural resources, emphasizing that 85 percent of the nation’s protected habitats and nearly one-third of its protected species are in an unfavorable condition. The assessment underscores a troubling trend, with over 50 bird species facing high conservation concerns and more than half of native plant species in decline.

Water quality is also alarming, remaining stagnant over the past five years with rivers and lakes classified as “poor.” The EEA points to pressures from agriculture, urban sewage discharges, and artificial interference with waterways as significant contributors to this deterioration.

“Compliance with EU obligations remains a challenge,” the report states, underlining the urgent need for action.

Despite the government’s initiatives, including a Water Action Plan and a forthcoming Nature Restoration Plan, the EEA stresses there is no time to waste. Reports indicate that Ireland’s economy is still largely linear, marked by material overconsumption and increasing waste volumes. Ireland currently spends just 0.9 percent of its GDP on environmental protection, far below the EU average of 2.2 percent.

“Scaled-up investment in water, energy, transport, and waste management infrastructure is essential,” the report warns, calling for transformational changes in agriculture and food systems. The intensification of livestock farming has further exacerbated environmental degradation, revealing a clear disconnect between economic ambitions and ecological sustainability.

In a broader context, the EEA’s findings are part of a worrying trend across Europe, where more than 60 percent of species and under 80 percent of habitats are also in poor condition. This report poses serious implications for Europe’s economic prosperity, security, and overall quality of life.

As Ireland grapples with these urgent environmental challenges, the call for immediate action is louder than ever. Citizens and stakeholders are urged to engage with their local representatives to advocate for sustainable practices and policies.

With the clock ticking, Ireland’s environmental future hangs in the balance. The demands for urgent and effective measures cannot be overstated. How the nation responds in the coming months will be crucial in determining the health of its natural environment for generations to come.

Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.