Drivers & Pressures

Ireland has experienced nearly a century of predominantly exotic conifer afforestation, some 40 years of agricultural intensification and a decade of economic boom – all of which have put pressure on habitats and species.  The key threats to Ireland’s important habitats and species have been identified as direct habitat damage; overgrazing and undergrazing; water pollution; unsustainable exploitation; invasive alien species; and recreational pressure.

A variety of factors are contributing to the decline of some of Ireland’s bird species including changes in farming practices, drainage and mink predation. Habitat loss, habitat change and habitat management are primary contributors to the decline of many non-marine mollusc species.

Habitat loss and subsequent isolation are contributing to the decline of some bee species but for many species little is known about their ecological requirements. The potential impact of climate change on biodiversity in Ireland also requires further study.