One of Europe’s largest environmental projects is being carried out in Ireland, causing farmers to fear its consequences.

Ireland is embarking on one of Europe’s most ambitious environmental projects to preserve the country’s biodiversity and minimize carbon emissions. As part of the European Union’s Biodiversity Strategy, Ireland is planning to convert up to 20% of its agricultural land into areas of conservation by 2030. This initiative is expected to benefit the country’s wildlife and mitigate climate change. However, this plan has caused some concerns among farmers, who are worried about the impact it might have on their livelihoods. They believe that the project may lead to decreased agricultural production and income. This article explores Ireland’s environmental project and why it’s causing unease among farmers.


Bord na Móna, which was established in 1946 and spent 80 years draining the bogs in order to extract peat, is now undertaking an ambitious project to rewet and rehabilitate them, in what is one of the largest environmental initiatives in Europe. With 75% of the raised bogs already damaged by peat-cutting, afforestation and reclamation for agriculture, the Bord na Móna Peatlands Climate Action Scheme (PCAS) will restore 33,000 hectares of the diminishing bogs, which account for most of Europe’s remaining raised bogs. However, farmers situated on the borders of the bogs fear damage to their land and are calling on the government or Bord na Móna to indemnify them against any possible damage. Bord na Móna has stated that the rewetting will take place only on its own lands without the need to enter adjacent areas.


In conclusion, while Ireland may be undertaking one of Europe’s largest environmental projects, it is important to address the concerns of farmers who fear the potential effects on their livelihoods. Achieving environmental sustainability is crucial, but it should not come at the cost of sacrificing the welfare of those who rely on the land for their livelihoods. It is crucial that all parties work together to find a solution that benefits both the environment and the farmers, ensuring a bright and sustainable future for Ireland.