Mapping ammonia risk on sensitive habitats in Ireland

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Ecology
• Atmospheric Chemistry

Background:

• Atmospheric ammonia poses a significant risk to sensitive habitats, particularly Natura 2000 sites.
• Assessing and mapping these risks is crucial for environmental protection and regulatory compliance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a cost-effective, risk-based map identifying terrestrial areas in Ireland vulnerable to atmospheric ammonia.
• To pinpoint Natura 2000 sites at risk from agricultural ammonia emissions.

Main Methods:

• Utilized Geographical Information Systems (GIS) to collate data and develop the Mapping Ammonia Risk on Sensitive Habitats (MARSH) model.
• Integrated data on ammonia sources, emissions, impacted areas, and UK FRAME modelling, corrected with monitoring data.
• Developed a Nitroindex map using lichen records to identify areas with existing ammonia impacts.

Main Results:

• The MARSH model predicts that 80.7%, 34.3%, and 5.9% of Irish Natura 2000 sites may exceed ammonia concentrations of 1, 2, and 3 μg/m³, respectively.
• The combined MARSH and Nitroindex models effectively identify sites most vulnerable to ammonia pollution.
• The study provides a screening tool for assessing Natura 2000 sites against the National Emissions Ceilings Directive.

Conclusions:

• The MARSH model offers a valuable first step in screening and assessing risks to Natura 2000 sites from atmospheric ammonia.
• The developed risk maps provide essential data for authorities to manage environmental quality and ensure regulatory compliance.