CSO launches new online 'agri-environment indicator' resource
The Central Statistics Office (CSO) today (February 25) launched a new online, one-stop resource for information on agricultural environment.
According to the CSO "agriculture will play an increasingly important role in addressing climate change" which in turn, according to the office, makes it "essential to develop a comprehensive understanding of it's impact on climate, environment, and biodiversity".
"As the demands and guidelines for sustainable agricultural practices continue to evolve and grow, reliable agri-environmental statistics are critical.
"The CSO is addressing these data needs with a new and easy to use Agri-Environment Indicator (AEIs) landing page, which contains the most up-to-date information on key themes," it stated.
It also outlined how AEIs measure the environmental impact of agricultural activities and highlight how ecosystems "positively contribute to agricultural production and society".
Commenting on the launch of the AEIs resource, Dr Nele van der Wielen, statistician in the Agriculture Section, said, “Agri-Environmental Indicators (AEIs) are essential tools for understanding the dynamic relationship between agriculture and the environment.
"This one-stop-shop provides easy access to a comprehensive list of AEIs across various themes monitored and reported by the CSO in one central space."
The themes were developed based on a review of various policies including Ireland's Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) Strategic Plan and the Climate Action Plan.
According to the CSO each theme contains a set of indicators generated by the office, which can be found under their respective categories, with links to the statistical tables available on a CSO website and in relevant releases.
"These accessible indicators will help inform users on Ireland’s progress in meeting policy goals," it added.
The CSO has outlined that the key themes monitored will include:
- Agricultural land use;
- Biodiversity, ecosystem services and condition;
- Climate and environmental impact;
- Economic and social development;
- Resource efficiency and management of natural resources;
- Soil health;
- Water quality.
According to the statistics office, its work is an ongoing process and as the CSO continues to "identify data gaps related to the agricultural environment" and has indicated that the online resource will be expanded as further indicators are developed.
