The Ulster Unionist Party calls for changes to Northern Ireland's climate targets. Robbie Butler, UUP agriculture spokesperson and Lagan Valley MLA, states the net zero emissions goal by 2050 has become unrealistic.

All parties passed the 2022 Climate Change Act setting those targets. The UUP supported the act until last year. Then-leader Mike Nesbitt backed it in October but noted possible future adjustments. Leadership candidate Jon Burrows called for clearer changes to the net zero laws.

The DUP proposed this week that the DAERA minister drop the Climate Action Plan. Butler opposes full withdrawal. He advocates revising targets to balance environment and economy.

Butler says past targets set a high bar now unachievable for 2030 and 2050. He points to Scotland revising unworkable goals as a model. The UUP aims to avoid harming farming, businesses, and the economy while contributing to UK climate efforts.

Farmers bear too much burden, Butler notes. Over 60% of farm produce exports feed 10 million people in the UK. He pushes for farmers' role in a circular economy and solutions like turning nutrient surplus into opportunity.

The UUP plans a Monday motion on anaerobic digestion and food and energy security. It offers a costed approach for sustainable energy and environment, with farmers central to any new plan.