6.8% decrease in emissions by 2023 is a step forward

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Director General, Laura Burke, hailed Ireland’s 6.8% reduction in Greenhouse Gas Emissions as a major achievement. With emissions now at their lowest in 30 years, Burke praised the impact of climate policy and decarbonisation measures. Minister Eamon Ryan also highlighted the shift towards a green economic future.

The reduction in emissions was driven by various factors, including an increase in biofuels, more electric cars, and greater use of public transport. The energy industry saw a significant 21.6% decrease, while emissions from agriculture dropped by 4.6%. Despite these positive results, Ireland still falls short of its 2030 climate targets.

This progress is a result of ongoing efforts across different sectors, with over 100,000 homes using solar energy and farmers embracing climate action. While there is more work to be done, the continued momentum towards sustainability is evident. Friends of the Earth praised the reduction as a step in the right direction, emphasizing the importance of maintaining climate action despite challenges.