The lack of climate change legislation specific to Northern Ireland is "a stain" on the region's record, an SDLP MLA has said.

Former Environment Minister and current Foyle MLA Mark Durkan issued a plea to introduce legislation to follow new targets set out by the UK Committee against Climate Change.

The new UK targets suggest a complete shift away from fossil fuels in an attempt to achieve zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Speaking ahead of World Environment Day, Wednesday 05 June, Mr Durkan said: "The climate crisis is the single greatest challenge facing communities across the world. The rapid warming of our planet, at a faster rate than anticipated, will have a catastrophic impact on weather patterns, human settlements and economies across the globe. It's critical that we all take action."

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During his stint as Environment Minister, Mr Durkan proposed a radical Climate Action Bill and remains confident a Bill should be introduced compelling the region to set emissions reduction targets, work toward carbon neutrality or prepare industry for tomorrow's economy.

He added: "The climate crisis should be a material consideration in the planning of government programmes, investment and broader decisions. It certainly was when the SDLP introduced a levy on single use carrier bags. It should form the basis of a new strategic direction for energy policy, looking at the potential for local industry diversification through offshore wind mapping, geothermal tech production and an enhanced renewables sector. We should be positioning ourselves as a global leader in these emerging fields.

"We owe it to our future generations, we owe it to the hundreds of young people who have rallied for action here in recent months. Climate change is no longer a theory but an irrefutable fact. We all have a responsibility to face up to the biggest threat facing our planet and demand change. Those in power need to hear the message loud and clear- the time to fight back is now."

(CM/JG)