The Fourth Carbon Budget has been launched for consultation by DAERA. This consultation is 16 weeks long, closing on 17th November 2025. The first three carbon budgets cover the period from 2023 to 2037. 

DAERA Minister, Andrew Muir, has stated the importance of setting carbon budgets to ensuring we have a gradual transition to a net zero country. This carbon budget will cover the period 2038-2042 and although 2038 is 12 years away, it is important to look at the longer term future not only to meet the legal requirements set out in the Act, but also to provide certainty to investors and businesses. 

This consultation offers consultees the opportunity to provide their views on DAERA’s proposal to set Northern Ireland’s Fourth Carbon Budget covering the period 2038-2042 at an average annual reduction of 77% below the 1990 baseline, in line with the recommendation of the UK Climate Change Committee.

Interested organisations, groups, and individuals are encouraged to complete the consultation which can be here.