The Government of Northern Ireland has launched a 25-year sustainable water strategy.

It aims to create a more sustainable sector where all water related activities can co-exist without compromising the environment or increasing flood risk.

To achieve their targets, the country will focus on “adequate” investment in water sewerage and drainage infrastructures which also aim to make water delivery costs in the region more affordable.

It also aims to improve the quality of drinking water by reducing the risks of pollution from sewage discharges.

The government outlined five key policies: sustainable catchment management, energy efficiency and reduced carbon emissions, sustainable wastewater treatment, water demand management and sustainable stormwater management.

Michelle McIlveen, Minister for Regional Development said: “This important strategy encourages cross-departmental working to manage water in our environment, develop the water and sewerage industry to meet customer needs, to fulfill our environmental commitments by reducing pollution and improving the quality of our inland and coastal waters.

“It also sets out ways in which we can address drainage issues and reduce the amount of energy needed to move and treat both drinking water and wastewater.”