He has said that he intends to introduce legislation calling on public bodies to report on their climate change impacts.
Welcoming the CCC to Clare House, Minister Muir said: “I would like to take this opportunity to reaffirm my commitment to working towards meeting the 2050 net zero target, and thank the CCC for their expert advice.
“My top priority is to take action to tackle the climate emergency, and I am delighted to announce that we will be introducing legislation for public bodies to report on their climate change impacts and resilience.
“I recognise that delivering net zero can bring significant benefits and opportunities for the people of Northern Ireland. For example, in increased economic opportunities, better air and water quality, employment, wellbeing, and environmental benefits.
“Within Northern Ireland we are already experiencing the impacts of climate change and it’s important that we take action to both reduce our emissions and ensure we have a climate-resilient society, economy, and environment.
“Working in partnership with my Executive colleagues, I am determined to drive forward action to further reduce Northern Ireland’s greenhouse gas emissions and work to meet targets set in our Climate Change legislation. It is also essential that the actions we take are science and evidence based, and are informed by organisations such as the CCC.”