The Northern Ireland Environmental Statistics Report 2023 stated that these climate records “suggest that the mean annual temperature has been steadily increasing since the end of the 19th century. The report adds that “the number of days per year where the temperature exceeded 20ºC has also been increasing in the same timescale.”

The lowest mean annual temperature (7.35ºC) was recorded in 1879. Earlier in the month, scientists estimated a 66% chance the world will pass what is considered the crucial 1.5ºC global warming threshold by 2027.

Daera’s environmental statistics report has also indicated that illegal dumping and litter is the biggest public concern for Northern Ireland’s environment. It also details that roadside levels of nitrogen dioxide are falling, and plastic bag use is continuing to fall in the country.