Environmental Geography: Concerns

The greenery of Ireland that allures visitors is in peril.

Though Ireland has a forgiving environment, the country faces numerous environmental concerns. According to the EPA, who releases a report every year that discusses the state of Ireland's environment, the air and water pollution, littering, and poor waste management have become major concerns. A recent survey stated that 35% of groundwater samples showed fecal contamination from nearby farms. On a more positive note, 85% of lakes and 70% of lakes and rivers (respectively) were in good condition. Nevertheless, water quality and pollution are two environmental concerns that the Irish government has been taking steps to reduce such issues through taxation, recycling programs, and sustainable farming programs.

In a 2012 survey compiled by Germanwatch and Climate Action Network Europe, Ireland was ranked 9th in how well they are combating global warming. This puts the country eight spots ahead of their previous 17th ranking in 2011. The economic decline is a factor contributing to Ireland's higher score, because the deflation of the economy and job loss has significantly cut the country's CO2 emissions. The organizations in charge of this survey advise against any restarting of the economy because this will only lead to more emissions, unless further steps are put into place to create government policies that encourage energy efficiency.

Though they have leaped up on this survey, Ireland is still experiencing some of the results of poor environmental maintenance. The country's average temperature has been increasing at a rate of 0.8 degrees Farenheit per decade since the 1980's, which is faster than the averages of the other countries in the world. In the future, this will most likely cause a much drier climate in the inlands and put the country's largest crop, the potato, in danger. The fish population may become endangered, and the signature greenery of Ireland will begin to brown.

The climate change in the country may lead to an uneven distribution of water and rainfall in the country, slashing the residents' current access to water. At the same time, the coast continues to gobble up about 750 acres of the island each year, increasing the risk of widespread and long-lasting flooding. These effects will continue to culminate, especially if Ireland's economy begins to grow after its last downturn. In response to these issues, the Irish government has pledged to reduce its emissions by 20 percent. Only time will tell if these promises are kept and if the government can, in fact, save the country. 

Sources:

McCormack, G.  (n.d.).  SLG 139.  Retrieved from http://www.garethmccormack.com/stock/image/visitors-admiring-glencar-waterfall-co-sligo-irela/

McDonald, F.  (2012, December 4).  State improves performance on global warming.  The Irish Times.  Retrieved from http://www.irishtimes.com/news/state-improves-performance-on-global-warming-1.786

Scott, S.  (2009).  Environmental Concerns.  Retrieved from http://www.movetoireland.com/movepag/miscenvr.htm

The Select Committee on Energy Independence and Global Warming.  (n.d.).  Keeping the Emerald Isle Green.  Retrieved from http://globalwarming.markey.house.gov/impactzones/ireland.html