Saturday, 25 October 2025
Ireland’s Role in the Paris Agreement: 2015 Commitments & Climate Action The Paris Agreement, adopted in December 2015 at COP21 in Paris, marked a pivotal moment in global climate action. As countries around the world committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions to combat climate change, Ireland emerged as a key participant in this international accord. […]
The Paris Agreement, adopted in December 2015 at COP21 in Paris, marked a pivotal moment in global climate action. As countries around the world committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions to combat climate change, Ireland emerged as a key participant in this international accord. This article aims to elucidate Ireland’s commitments within the Paris Agreement and explore its ongoing climate action efforts.
The Paris Agreement is a legally binding international treaty designed to strengthen the global response to climate change. Its core aim is to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, with efforts to restrict the temperature increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius. This ambitious goal is crucial for minimising severe climate impacts and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.
1. Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs): Each country must outline its own plans for reducing emissions, known as NDCs. These contributions are meant to be updated every five years, with each iteration reflecting increased ambition.
2. Global Stocktake: Countries are required to assess their collective progress towards meeting the long-term goals of the Agreement every five years.
3. Financial Support: Developed nations are tasked with providing financial resources to assist developing countries in achieving their climate goals.
Ireland played an active role during the negotiations at COP21, demonstrating a commitment to combat climate change. The country submitted its first NDC, outlining its intended commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Ireland committed to reducing its emissions by 20% by 2020, compared to 2005 levels, and aimed for a 30% reduction by 2030. These targets underscore Ireland’s recognition of both its responsibility to the global community and the urgency of addressing climate change.
To fulfil its commitments, Ireland implemented numerous strategies emphasising sustainable development, energy efficiency, and the transition to renewable energy sources. The Climate Action Plan, introduced in 2019, outlines comprehensive measures that encompass various sectors, signalling a cohesive governmental approach.
Current progress and initiatives that Ireland is contributing towards includes:
One of the most significant contributions of Ireland to the Paris Agreement is its aggressive transition to renewable energy. The country aims to generate 70% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. Wind energy, in particular, has been at the forefront, with numerous offshore and onshore wind farms being developed across the country.
Ireland’s agricultural sector, known for its contribution to both the economy and greenhouse gas emissions, has also made strides. The government has initiated policies geared towards sustainable farming practices, aiming to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. Efforts include using advanced technologies to optimise plant growth and reduce emissions.
Educating the public on climate action has become a cornerstone of Ireland’s efforts. Campaigns focusing on energy conservation and sustainability have been rolled out, encouraging citizens and businesses to engage in eco-friendly practices. The goal is to foster a culture where climate action is recognised as a shared responsibility.
The main challenges and obstacles include:
Despite Ireland’s ambitious commitments, challenges remain. Recent reports indicated that emissions had been rising, largely attributed to the economic recovery post-2010, agricultural practices, and increased energy demands. This trend poses a significant hurdle to meeting the established NDCs and maintaining credibility on the international stage.
A coherent alignment of policies across different government departments is crucial for effective climate action. Ireland has faced criticism regarding the execution and enforcement of climate policies, which can hinder progress. Achieving consistency in commitment towards environmental goals remains an ongoing debate.
Future commitments that need to be made by Ireland includes:
As part of its commitment to the Paris Agreement, Ireland is scheduled to update its NDC ahead of the 2025 deadline. This presents an opportunity for the country to enhance its climate commitments and potentially align them with more ambitious targets in line with the 1.5°C goal.
Collaboration plays a pivotal role in addressing climate change. Ireland continues to engage with other nations to share knowledge, technology, and strategies to foster an inclusive global effort towards sustainability. Participation in international forums and partnerships will be vital for Ireland in achieving its long-term climate goals.
Ireland’s role in the Paris Agreement is marked by its proactive commitments and ongoing climate action strategies. The country aims to tackle the challenges posed by climate change while striving to meet its international obligations. By fostering renewable energy, engaging the public, and aligning policies, Ireland not only aims to fulfil its commitments but also sets a precedent for other nations.
As the world grapples with the realities of climate change, Ireland’s journey highlights the significance of dedication, collaboration, and continuous progression towards achieving sustainability and global climate goals.