We are in a dual nature and climate crisis. 

Peatlands in Northern Ireland are equivalent to our rainforest, but they are in a degraded state. 

Recent illegal fires in the Mourne mountains and elsewhere have degraded these precious upland habitats. These fires negatively impact on people, wildlife, water quality, carbon and public services. 

It is time to call for a legal ban on burning in the uplands, especially peatland, in Northern Ireland.

Image credit: GETTY IMAGES/ CHARLES MCQUILLAN