A chief executive has warned that Northern Ireland risks losing out on global green investment unless it tackles persistent problems with planning and infrastructure.

Colm Warren, CEO of Natural World Products, made the remarks while addressing the West Belfast Business Roundtable at An Chultúrlann.

His company, based in the hills above West Belfast, has grown into Ireland’s largest organic domestic waste recycling firm. It now plays a central role in the circular economy and carbon sequestration.

Warren told the monthly breakfast gathering that the business has already attracted international capital. He said more funding is available globally for green transition projects but will flow to jurisdictions that make it straightforward to invest.

Planning delays and infrastructure constraints in Northern Ireland could block the next wave of investment, he cautioned.

Among those attending were Gareth Graham of Belfast Commercial Finance, Aidan Flynn of Flynn Construction, life-coach Jo McAllister, Eileen Brennan of Brennan’s Linens and Pat Magee of Magee Lighting.