Ireland Lags Behind on Climate Targets, EPA Warns

Ireland Falls Short of Climate Goals: EPA Report Highlights Urgent Need for Action Ireland is facing a significant challenge in meeting its ambitious climate change targets. A recent report by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reveals a concerning shortfall in greenhouse gas emission reductions. Even with the full implementation of all currently planned government policies, the EPA projects a maximum reduction of only 23% by 2030. This figure is far below the national target of a 51% reduction. Laura Burke, Director General of the EPA, expressed disappointment at the findings. In an interview, she stated, "Even with all the planned policies and measures in place and all of them delivering in full, we would reach a maximum 23% reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by 2030." She further emphasized that Ireland is further from the target than it was last year, when projections were more optimistic. The EPA's report underscores the urgent need for accelerated action to address climate change in Ireland. The gap between current projections and the national target highlights the significant challenges ahead. Ms. Burke added, "So, it is disappointing. What we're seeing, the closer you are to 2030, the more difficult it is to make up all of those reductions that are needed. We need to speed up and scale up all of the activities we're doing." The report serves as a stark reminder of the need for immediate and decisive action to tackle climate change and meet Ireland's climate commitments.