The 2024 Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) report on Ireland and the environment gives us a clear picture of the state of our current ecological health.
From air to water quality, soil health, and the effects of climate change, it’s a mixed bag of progress and challenges. Let’s break down some key findings and what they mean for Ireland.
Table of Contents
Ireland and the Environment: Noise Pollution
Noise pollution is the second-largest environmental cause of health problems in the EU (Figure 1). The EPA report estimates that over 1 million people in Ireland are exposed to noise levels above safe limits. The problem is particularly significant in urban areas.
Figure 1: The health implications of noise pollution
Traffic noise is a major culprit, often caused by the interaction between tyres and the road surface. Solutions like the construction of noise-reducing road surfaces can help. However, more coordinated efforts are needed from local authorities and transport infrastructure bodies.
Southern Scientific’s noise monitoring helps identify high-noise areas. We even assist local authorities and businesses in implementing noise reduction plans.
Ireland and the Environment: Air Quality
Over the past few decades, the dangers of air pollution have become clearer. The World Health Organization (WHO) now states that there is no safe level of air pollution. In recent years, Ireland’s air quality has generally improved. However, we still fall behind WHO recommendation limits for key pollutants, like fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2).
Nitrogen dioxide (NO2)
NO2 is mainly produced by traffic, is also a major concern, especially in cities. NO2 can damage our respiratory system and is above the safe limit at 67% of the stations monitored in 2023. Reducing traffic and promoting electric vehicles are key steps toward lowering NO2 levels.
Fine particulate matter (PM2.5)
PM2.5 is a harmful pollutant that comes mostly from burning solid fuels like coal and wood for heating. These tiny particles can enter our lungs and bloodstream, leading to serious health problems (Figure 2). The EPA found that PM2.5 levels were above the safe limit at 78% of the monitoring stations in Ireland in 2023.
Figure 2: The health implications of PM2.5 exposure
At Southern Scientific, we offer dust monitoring. This service can track particulate matter levels, protecting personal and public health.
Ireland and the Environment: Water Quality
Water quality is a serious concern for Ireland and the environment. According to the report, 46% of Ireland’s surface waters (rivers, lakes, and coastal waters) are not in good ecological health (Figure 3).
Figure 3: How water bodies are classified in Ireland and the EU
The biggest problem for water bodies is nutrient pollution, mainly from too much nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P). The issue with excess N and P in water is that they cause plants and algae to grow too fast. As a result, waterways are blocked, and oxygen levels are reduced, harming wildlife. Nitrogen is a bigger problem in estuaries, while phosphorus hurts rivers and lakes. Water can recover if pollution is stopped, especially with clean water upstream.
Southern Scientific provides water monitoring services for companies, farmers, and communities looking to improve water quality. Our tools and expertise can help identify sources of water pollution and track improvements over time.
Ireland and the Environment: Soil Health
Ireland’s soils are vital for growing food, storing carbon, and regulating water flow. However, the EPA report shows that our soils are under pressure from pollution, over-farming, and compaction. Around 20% of soils in Ireland have excess phosphorus, mainly from agricultural fertilisers. This not only damages soil health but also contributes to water pollution.
The report also highlights the importance of peatlands. Peat soils are a significant carbon sink, meaning they help store carbon and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. However, peatlands are vulnerable to damage from drainage and agriculture. Damage can turn soil from a carbon sink into a carbon source (Figure 4).
Figure 4: Difference between carbon source and carbon sink soils
At Southern Scientific, we offer soil testing services to help farmers and landowners understand the health of their soil. By analysing soil composition and nutrient levels, we can recommend steps to improve soil health.
Ireland and the Environment: Climate Change
The report also touches on the growing impacts of climate change in Ireland. 2023 was the hottest year on record, and extreme weather events are becoming more frequent. The EPA stresses that immediate action is needed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Preparation is also required for future climate impacts.
Compared to EU averages, Ireland ranks poorly when it comes to greenhouse gas emissions (Figure 5). Plus, Ireland is legally required to reduce emissions by 51% by 2030. The EPA warns that current actions are not enough to meet this target. Sectors like agriculture, transportation, and energy need to reduce emissions drastically.
There are some early signs of progress: provisional EPA figures published in 2026 show Ireland’s emissions fell by 2.2% in 2025, and the country stayed within its first legally binding Carbon Budget for 2021–2025. However, annual reductions now need to exceed 10% a year to reach the 2030 target, so the scale of the challenge hasn’t changed.
Figure 5: Difference in Irish greenhouse gas emissions compared to EU average
Southern Scientific can assist with environmental impact assessments. Our environmentalists can evaluate the potential effects of projects or changes in land use on the environment.
Ireland and the Environment Moving Forward
The 2024 EPA report highlights some clear challenges for Ireland’s environment. However, with coordinated action, these issues can be tackled. We all have a role to play in protecting Ireland’s environment. If we act now, we can ensure that future generations enjoy clean air, safe water, healthy soils, and a stable climate. Sustainable changes in home heating, farming, and transportation can make a big difference.
At Southern Scientific, we are committed to supporting businesses, local authorities, and communities in their efforts to improve the environment. Through our environmental monitoring and consultancy services, we can help identify problems, measure progress, and find sustainable solutions. Together, we can work toward a cleaner, healthier Ireland.
As an INAB-accredited laboratory (registration 194T) operating to ISO 17025 standards, we test over 10,000 drinking water samples every year, giving households, farmers, and businesses across Ireland the verified data they need to understand, and improve, their environmental impact.
To find out some ways you can help improve Ireland and the environment, get in touch with our team today.
To find out some ways you can help improve Ireland and the environment, get in touch with our team today!
