Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs

The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) has responsibility for food, farming, environmental, fisheries, forestry and sustainability policy and the development of the rural sector in Northern Ireland. DAERA assists in the sustainable development of these sectors, with consideration of the needs of consumers, prevention of harm to human, animal and plant health, and the conservation and enhancement of the environment.

DAERA has two Executive Agencies:

• Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA)
• Forest Service

DAERA promotes a more sustainable approach to waste management in Northern Ireland by drafting waste legislation and implementing waste management policy.