This significant consultation aims to gather valuable insights and feedback regarding Northern Ireland's proposed emissions targets for 2030 and 2040, as well as the carbon budgets for the periods 2023-2027, 2028-2032, and 2033-2037.

As well as consulting on the Carbon Budget, the department is working collaboratively with all NICS departments and is seeking views on the Climate Change Committee’s Advice Report: The Path to Net Zero Northern Ireland.

ACE is encouraging its members to contribute their expertise and perspectives to help shape Northern Ireland's climate action agenda.

Highlighting the importance of the consultation, Guto Davies, Director of Policy at ACE, emphasised the role of consultancy and engineering professionals in driving sustainable change.

"ACE members possess invaluable expertise in developing innovative solutions to combat climate change. By actively participating in DAERA's consultation, our members have the opportunity to shape Northern Ireland's emissions targets, carbon budgets and net zero approach, paving the way for a greener and more sustainable future."

ACE recognises the pivotal role that its members play in supporting the development and implementation of effective strategies. By actively participating in this consultation, ACE members can contribute to the development of Northern Ireland's first Climate Action Plan, which will outline policies and proposals for achieving the initial carbon budget.

Working with DAERA, ACE also intends to take part in a series of stakeholder engagement sessions, providing further opportunities for members to actively participate and provide invaluable insights, experiences, and recommendations.

ACE members are invited to contribute their initial views and feedback to the consultation process, by emailing the policy team directly at policyteam@acenet.co.uk.