Detail on all Q4 2021 and Q1 2022 measures

Overall implementation rates Q4 2021 and Q1 2022 … 2

Glossary … 3

Agriculture … 5

Transport… 27

Electricity … 45

Land Use, Land Use Change, Forestry, and the Marine … 52

Buildings … 71

National Retrofit Plan … 77

Enterprise… 85

Public Sector Lead … 99

The Circular Economy … 104

Cross-Cutting Policies … 111

Governance … 111

Ensuring a Just Transition to a Climate Neutral Ireland … 115

Citizen Engagement … 121

Carbon Pricing and Planning … 134

International … 147

Adaptation… 148

Overall implementation rates Q4 2021 and Q1 2022

Figure from page 2

Figure from page 2

Glossary

AAAppropriate Assessment
AD Anaerobic Digestion
AGOAttorney General’s Office
BER Building Energy Rating
BERECBody of European Regulators for Electronic Communications
BIM Bord Iascaigh Mhara
CAPClimate Action Plan
COFORD Council for Forest Research and Development
COPConference of the Parties
CRU Commission for Regulation of Utilities
CSOCentral Statistics Office
CSP CAP Strategic Plan (Common Agricultural Policy Strategic Plan)
DAFMDepartment of Agriculture, Food and the Marine
DCEDIY Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth
DECCDepartment of the Environment, Climate and Communications
D/Education Department of Education
DETEDepartment of Enterprise, Trade and Employment
DFA Department of Foreign Affairs
DFHERISDepartment of Further &Higher Education, Research, Innovation &Science
DFIN Department of Finance
DHLGHDepartment of Housing, Local Government and Heritage
DPER Department of Public Expenditure and Reform
DRCDDepartment of Rural and Community Development
DSP Department of Social Protection
D/TaoiseachDepartment of the Taoiseach
DTCAGSM Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media
D/TransportDepartment of Transport
DPTC Dairy Processing Technology Centre
EIEnterprise Ireland
EIP European Innovation Partnership
EPAEnvironmental Protection Agency
ESB Electricity Supply Board
ESBNElectricity Supply Board Networks
ESRI Economic and Social Research Institute
ETSEmissions Trading System
EU European Union
EVElectric Vehicle
FERS Forest, Environmental Research & Services
GHGGreenhouse Gas
GPP Green Public Procurement
GSIGeological Survey Ireland
GTF Government Task Force
GWGigawatts
HEA Higher Education Authority
HSEHealth Service Executive
IBEC Irish Business and Employers Confederation
ICEInternal Combustion Engine
IDA Industrial Development Agency
IFIInland Fisheries Ireland
ISO TS International Organization for Standardization Technical Specification
LALocal Authority
LCA Life Cycle Assessment
LDALand Development Agency
MACC Marginal Abatement Cost Curve
NDCANational Dialogue on Climate Action
NDFA National Development Finance Agency
NESCNational Economic and Social Council
NMP National Mitigation Plan
NPWSNational Parks and Wildlife Service
NSAI National Standards Authority of Ireland
NSPANational Strategic Plan for Sustainable Aquaculture
NTA National Transport Authority
ODAOfficial Development Assistance
OLEV Office for Low Emission Vehicles
OPROffice of the Planning Regulator
OPW Office of Public Works
OREOffshore Renewable Energy
PPN Public Participation Networks
PPPPublic Private Partnership
PSO Public Service Obligation
PVPhotovoltaic
RED II Revised Renewable Energy Directive
RESRenewable Energy Share i.e. heat (RES-H), transport (RES-T) and
electricity (RES-E)
RESS Renewable Electricity Support Scheme
RSARoad Safety Authority
SBLAS Sustainable Beef and Lamb Assurance Scheme
SEAStrategic Environmental Assessment
SEAI Sustainable Energy Authority Of Ireland
SIStatutory Instruments
SOLAS Seirbhísí Oideachais Leanunaigh Agus Scileanna
SMEsSmall and mid-size enterprises
TII Transport Infrastructure Ireland
TSGTax Strategy Group
UNFCCC United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change
WMOWorld Meteorological Organization

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Agriculture

Action 303Complete a review of the Teagasc Marginal Abatement Cost Curve
Q1 2022 measure: As per headline action
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Complete
Update: The Greenhouse Gas Marginal Abatement Cost Curve (GHG MACC) for Irish Agriculture quantifies the opportunities for abatement of agricultural greenhouse gases, as well as the associated costs/benefits. It visualises the abatement potential of greenhouse gas mitigation measures, and the relative costs associated with each of these measures. The original MACC, out to 2030, initially published in 2018 is currently under review. This is being carried out by Teagasc using internal resources and it is expected a peer reviewed paper will be published in the short term. Funding of €2,198,002 has also been granted under the Department’s 2021 Competitive Research Call to the project ‘Land-Use, Agriculture and Bioenergy Measures for the Abatement of Climate Change (LAB MACC)’. This new project will build on the previous MACC and quantify mitigation associated with a range of new measures that reduce nitrous oxide emissions, enhance carbon sinks via land-use and displace fossil fuel emissions via closed farm nutrient loops using enhanced production of bio-based products. The review of the existing MACC will also input into this wider LAB MACC project.
Action 304Reduce chemical nitrogen use to an absolute maximum of 325,000
tonnes (annually) by 2030, with an interim target of 350,000 tonnes by
2027
Q1 2022 measure: Promote and demonstrate reduced nitrogen fertiliser use through
improved soil fertility on the signpost farms
Responsible body: Teagasc
Status: Complete
Update: Teagasc has recently published (January 2022) a compendium of 20 factsheets providing the latest technical advice on soils, nutrients and fertiliser, which are available through the Teagasc website at 2022 - Soils, Nutrients and Fertiliser Factsheets - Teagasc | Agriculture and Food Development Authority. Improved nutrient and fertiliser use messages are being incorporated in a range of webinars, farm walks and discussion group meetings by all Teagasc staff this spring. Signpost Farmers are being supported by their advisers to tailor their nutrient and fertiliser inputs, in line with an overall plan to reduce their farm emissions. Each Signpost Farmer will have a Sustainable Nutrient management Plan prepared for their farm.

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Action 304Reduce chemical nitrogen use to an absolute maximum of 325,000
tonnes (annually) by 2030, with an interim target of 350,000 tonnes by
2028
Q1 2022 measure: Establish the low nitrogen farming system trial in Johnstown Castle
Responsible body: Teagasc
Status: Complete
Update: Low nitrogen dairy system has been established which uses 65 kg N ha-1 yr-1. Facilities are being established to measure CO2, N2O and CH4 from an exemplar plot within the system.
Action 304Reduce chemical nitrogen use to an absolute maximum of 325,000
tonnes (annually) by 2030, with an interim target of 350,000 tonnes by
2025
Q1 2022 measure: Amendments to the closed period for spreading organic manures to
seek improvements in their utilisation and storage capacity
Responsible body: DHLGH
Status: Complete
Update: Good Agricultural Practice Regulations (SI 113 of 2022) that put the Fifth Nitrates Action Programme in place came into effect on 11 March 2022 and will help meet this Action. There will be stronger focus on inspection and compliance to ensure there is sufficient storage and no land spreading during the closed season. Better utilisation of slurry will reduce the amount of chemical nitrogen needed.
Action 304Reduce chemical nitrogen use to an absolute maximum of 325,000
tonnes (annually) by 2030, with an interim target of 350,000 tonnes by
2026
Q1 2022 measure: Improved controls for the application and management of chemical
fertiliser to be included in the new Nitrates Action Programme
Responsible body: DHLGH
Status: Complete
Update: Good Agricultural Practice Regulations (SI 113 of 2022) that put the Fifth Nitrates Action Programme in place came into effect on 11 March 2022 and will help meet this Action. There will be a 10% reduction in the amount of chemical nitrogen permitted to be applied nationally.

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Action 305Conclude review of the Nitrates Action Programme
Q1 2022 measure: Conclude negotiations with EU Commission on the Nitrates Action
Programme and introduce legislation
Responsible body: DHLGH
Status: Complete
Update: Nitrates Action Programme and Good Agricultural Practice Regulations (SI 113 of 2022) that put the Fifth Nitrates Action Programme in place came into effect on 11 March 2022. The Nitrates Derogation was granted for Ireland on the 17 March following a vote by the Nitrates Committee made up of Member States. The Commission will issue a Derogation Decision and once received the Good Agricultural Practice Regulations will be amended to include the additional stricter environmental regulations that will relate to derogation farms.
Action 307Increase the use of protected urea fertiliser
Q1 2022 measure: Promote switching to protected urea fertiliser through the SignPost
farms network
Responsible body: Teagasc
Status: Complete
Update: The Signpost Programme has promoted the use of protected urea through a range of activities in Q4 2021 and Q1 2022 including: in-service training for Teagasc Advisers and Teachers and Signpost Programme Partners, media articles, farmer testimonial videos, social media promotion, usage of protected urea on all Agricultural Colleges and Teagasc farms, briefing for Signpost Partners, podcasts and the inclusion of protected urea as the default fertiliser N source in NMP Online. Finally, the Signpost Team are currently finalising a protected urea factsheet and poster for distribution within Teagasc and to Signpost Programme partners. Notwithstanding this level of promotion to build farmer demand, reports are being received from both farmers and merchants of the low availability of protected urea this spring.
Action 309Increase the number of dairy herds carrying out milk recording from the current level of 50% to 90%
Q4 2021 measure: Promote the use of milk recording through the Teagasc Signpost
Programme
Responsible body: Teagasc
Status: Complete
Update: Total dairy cows recorded during 2021 was 983,278 which represents an 18% increase in total cows that were milk recorded relative to 2020. Based on June 2021 dairy cow population (CSO), 61% of cows were milk recorded in 2021, compared to 52% in 2020. Promotion of milk recording has been embedded as a core activity in all Teagasc/dairy industry joint advisory initiatives and the SignPost Programme.
Action 309Increase the number of dairy herds carrying out milk recording from the current level of 50% to 90%
Q4 2021 measure: Promote the use of milk recording through engagement with the dairy
industry
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Complete
Update: DAFM is working closely with Teagasc and Industry stakeholders to promote the use of milk recording in the dairy sector. Milk recording will be considered in the Food Vision Dairy Sustainability Plan (Q1 2022). Promotion of milk recording is a core activity in all Teagasc/dairy industry joint advisory initiatives and the SignPost Programme. Based on June 2021 dairy cow population (CSO), 61% of cows were milk recorded in 2021, compared to 52% in 2020.
Action 310Increase focus on selection for traits that lead to lower methane production in the beef breeding programme
Q1 2022 measure: As per headline action
Responsible body: Teagasc
Status: Complete
Update: The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of divergently ranking beef cattle for residual methane emissions on animal productivity, enteric emissions, and rumen fermentation. The full research paper is published at https://academic.oup.com/jas/article/99/11/skab275/6379086
Action 312Reduce the crude protein content of livestock feeding stuffs to minimise nitrous oxide and ammonia loss
Q1 2022 measure: Require protein in bovine rations to be reduced
Responsible body: DHLGH
Status: Complete
Update: Good Agricultural Practice Regulations (SI 113 of 2022) that put the Fifth Nitrates Action Programme in place came into effect on 11 March 2022 and will help meet this Action. A maximum crude protein content of 15% is allowed in concentrate feedstuff fed to grazing livestock between 15 April and 30 September.
Action 315Reduce the average age of slaughter of prime animals from 27 to 24 months by 2030
Q4 2021 measure: Upskill Farmers on beef management
Responsible body: Teagasc
Status: Complete
Update: Teagasc has approved the launch of the DairyBeef 500 Campaign across the organisation. Six external funders have also committed to part fund the campaign with the remaining funding coming from Teagasc resources. One contracted specialised advisor has been appointed to the programme in Q4 2021 on a five year contract. A DairyBeef 500 Co-ordinator and two more specialised DairyBeef 500 advisors were appointed in Q1 2022.
Action 316Increase the current area under organic production from 74,000 ha to 350,000 ha by 2030
Q1 2022 measure: Organic farmers to be included in Signpost Programme to represent
major organic farming enterprises
Responsible body: Teagasc
Status: Complete
Update: Five organic farms are now included as Signpost Farmers (1 tillage, 2 suckler beef, 2 dairy).
Action 318Conduct further research into biomass and manure feedstocks for biogas production through Anaerobic Digestion
Q1 2022 measure: Establish experiment to quantify country specific N2O Emissions Factor
for digestate to quantify system sustainability under REDII
Responsible body: Teagasc
Status: Complete
Update: The experiment has been established comparing digestate and synthetic fertiliser on a range of grassland types (perennial ryegrass, ryegrass + white clover, ryegrass + red clovers and multispecies sward) and greenhouse gas emissions measurement using static chambers commenced in early April 2022.
Action 318Conduct further research into biomass and manure feedstocks for biogas production through Anaerobic Digestion
Q1 2022 measure: Commence experiments to optimise biomethane yield from co-
digestion of agricultural feedstocks
Responsible body: Teagasc
Status: Complete
Update: The experiment has been established comparing a range of mixtures of slurry and grassland feedstocks and a range of system adjustments (temperature, pH and duration of AD) to optimise gas yield have commenced.
Action 320Double the biomass supply as a fossil fuel substitute to contribute to the decarbonisation of the energy system
Q4 2021 measure: Implement the forest roads scheme to mobilise biomass
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Complete
Update: Forest road licences continued to be issued throughout 2021 facilitating the mobilisation of forest biomass. Forest road licences were issued for 263.8 kilometres of road in 2021. DAFM provided grant aid under the Forest Road Scheme for the construction of 72.5 kilometres of road in 2021.
Action 320Double the biomass supply as a fossil fuel substitute to contribute to the decarbonisation of the energy system
Q4 2021 measure: Knowledge transfer on the importance of thinning & sustainable
production of biomass for energy and the use of sustainable biomass and standards
through the Wood Fuel Assurance Scheme
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Complete
Update: DAFM provided funding to Irish Bioenergy Association (IRBEA) who have run a number of successful webinars on the importance of sustainable biomass and the promotion of the Wood Fuel Quality Assurance Scheme throughout 2021. A webinar event on the 13th September 2021 outlined the details of the proposed renewable heat obligation scheme and the role of bioenergy. On the 3rd December 2021 in Dowra, Co Leitrim an information field day was held in association with IRBEA outlined the importance of Wood fuel Quality.
Action 320Double the biomass supply as a fossil fuel substitute to contribute to the decarbonisation of the energy system
Q1 2022 measure: Annual reporting on the use of forest-based biomass
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Complete
Update: The Central Statistics Office (CSO) with input from DAFM have introduced an annual wood inputs survey with the purpose of publishing each year a range of forestry statistics. The Wood Input Survey is being conducted under the Statistics (Wood Inputs Survey) Order 2020 (S.I. No. 650 of 2020). In 2021, DAFM facilitated the production of the COFORD “All Ireland Roundwood Production Forecast 2021 -2040”. This revised forecast predicts that the annual potential roundwood supply, will increase from 4.7 million cubic metres in 2021 to 7.9 million cubic metres by 2035. CSO figures published for 2020 estimate that 3.912 million cubic metres were harvested from Irelands forest which matches the projected forecast figure. Figures for 2021 are not yet available. DAFM will continue to monitor the actual volumes of timber removed based on the CSO annual data against the projected forecast data. Increasing supplies of timber and biomass will require increased licensing and road construction. The forecast and trends in harvest are on target to significantly increase supply over the next decade.
Action 324Ensure optimisation of forage production to improve quality and
quantity of forage in animal diet to improve enteric fermentation
efficiency (reduces methane), through grassland management and
inclusion of clover in reseeded swards
Q1 2022 measure: Require grass measurement on intensive holdings
Responsible body: DHLGH
Status: Delayed
Update: This measure applies to intensive farms under the Nitrates Derogation. The Nitrates Derogation was granted for Ireland on 17 March 2022 following a vote by the Nitrates Committee made up of Member States. The Commission will issue a Derogation Decision and once received the Good Agricultural Practice Regulations will be amended to include the additional stricter environmental regulations that will relate to derogation farms. It is anticipated that the amendment will take place in Q2 2022.
Action 326Expand research calls and national funding in line with Department of Agriculture priority areas and climate action research goals
Q1 2022 measure: Develop and launch National Research Call/Calls with increased focus
on climate adaptation/mitigation and bio/circular economy development
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Complete
Update: Call 2021 was developed and launched by DAFM with a specific climate-related and bioeconomy themes. Overall, awards of €20 million in funding was provided for 24 research projects arising from the DAFM Competitive Research Call 2021. 10 projects were launched with investment of over €12 million on climate- and environment- related research proposals from the DAFM Research Call 2021, which represents 60% of the total research investment.
Action 326Expand research calls and national funding in line with Department of Agriculture priority areas and climate action research goals
Q1 2022 measure: Develop a pilot strategic studies research call to address urgent policy
concerns/ needs in the areas of climate adaptation/mitigation and bio/circular economy
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Delayed
Update: Development of the pilot strategic studies research call is slightly delayed, however final drafting of the Call is currently taking place and the Call is expected to launch early in Q2 2022.
Action 327Expand international research funding opportunities in priority areas including climate related areas
Q4 2021 measure: Launch successful climaterelated research proposals from the DAFM
Research Call 2021
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Complete
Update: Nationally, 10 projects launched with investment of over €12 million on climate- and environment-related research proposals from the DAFM Research Call 2021. Internationally, 7 projects launched with Irish involvement from climate-related international research calls with investment of €1.65 million. Further information is available at: gov.ie - Minister McConalogue and Minster Heydon jointly announce the awards made under DAFM’s 2021 Call for Research Proposals (www.gov.ie)
Action 329Upskill farmers and advisors to ensure they have the knowledge and tools to implement climate mitigation and adaptation practices
Q4 2021 measure: Co-design training modules which highlight measures to reduce
emissions and enhance carbon sequestration, with relevant stakeholders including farmers,
advisers, curriculum development and teachers
Responsible body: Teagasc
Status: Complete
Update: Within the Education curriculum, there are mandatory modules currently in place on topics of Soils & Environment Module (Level 5) and Environment and Sustainable farming (Level 6). Advisory programmes and activities continue to highlight and disseminate emissions reduction messages, including training courses recently delivered to farmers in derogation.
Action 332Promote ecosystem restoration and conservation through Payment for
Ecosystem Services and investment in actions that increase carbon
sinks while promoting biodiversity e.g., woodlands, bogs, soil
management, hedgerows
Q4 2021 measure: Roll out the Results Based Payment System to >150 farmers in
Owenduff/Nephin SAC, Co. Mayo
Responsible body: DHLGH
Status: Complete
Update: 26 farm advisors trained in 2021, with 155 farmers participating. The overall objective of the Results Based Payment System is to increase capacity amongst farmers, advisors, DAFM and the NPWS to be able to support and deliver a broader roll-out of this programme. During 2022, the programme will expand to include up to 800 farmers in up to six further sites and three partial sites distributed across the North West of Ireland. C. 20k ha of land scored and evaluated in terms of ecological quality. Farmer participants training took place in February 2022. Inter-department approach to targeting of areas to be included in Cooperation Measure in Common Agricultural Policy Strategic Plan (CAP Strategic Plan or CSP). Workshop between Departments also held to agree parameters for inclusion in scorecards.
Action 333Implement the new All-Ireland Pollinator Plan for 2021-2025
Q4 2021 measure: Implement All-Ireland Pollinator Plan
Responsible body: Heritage Council
Status: Complete
Update: The Q4 2021 progress report outlining progress against each of the 186 actions in the 2021-2025 Pollinator Plan was published by the National Biodiversity Data Centre. Of the 186 actions; 105 have been completed this year as agreed (56%), 46 are in train (25%) and 35 have not yet.
Action 335Strengthen adaptative capacity through improving knowledge and
awareness building on climate action policy in the food and drinks
Industry
Q4 2021 measure: Endeavour to raise awareness on food waste across the agriculture
and food sector and in schools
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Complete
Update: Engagement and consultation has occurred internally within DAFM and with external Departments/bodies, such as EPA/DECC and Food Cloud with a view to collaborating in raising awareness of food waste. Consultation also took place with DECC with regard to a Waste Action Plan for a Circular Economy and a Food Waste Prevention Roadmap. Member of oversight committee for an EPA funded research project – Food Waste from Farming, Fishing and Aquaculture in Ireland. Initial work on developing a Food Waste “Campaign”, including: • presentations for Ministers and senior officials on EPA funded Research Report – Food Waste from Farming, Fishing and Aquaculture in Ireland • recognition of International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste, 29 September 2021, through Press Release, social media and radio interview with the Minister • recognition of National Stop Food Waste Day, 1 March 2022, through Press release, social media and You Tube video by M/AFM with professional chef Schools – accompanying educational measures for the EU School Schemes - Food Dudes and School Milk programmes - will be revised to include a section on food waste.
Action 336Improve climate resilience in crop production
Q4 2021 measure: Maintain National Gene Banks in order to provide genetic material for
research to identify varieties with traits what will stand up to challenges of Climate Change
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Complete
Update: National Gene Banks are being maintained at DAFM Tops Potato Centre and DAFM Backweston and requests for germplasm for research are being acceded to.
Action 336Improve climate resilience in crop production
Q1 2022 measure: Continue with Value for Cultivation and Use trials to identify varieties of
various crops suitable for Irish Conditions
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Complete
Update: Recommended Lists for Spring beans, forage maize, spring cereals, grass and white clover for 2022 have all been published.
Action 336Improve climate resilience in crop production
Q1 2022 measure: Completion of national plant health monitoring programme(s) for new
plant pests
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Complete
Update: 2021 Plant Health Surveys for EU Priority Pests, EU Quarantine Pests and Protected Zone Pests are completed. Reporting of the results of these surveys is on schedule and will be sent to the EU Commission before the deadline of 30th April 2022.
Action 339Identify priority steps towards building resilience from the seafood
section of the Agriculture, Forest, and Seafood Climate Change Sectoral
Adaptation Plan
Q1 2022 measure: Review and prioritise the Steps Towards Building Resilience in the
seafood case studies
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Delayed
Update: Priority steps have been identified by the Seafood Climate Action Group and drafting is underway. This report will be completed in Q2 2022 and will feed into the Implementation plan due by Q4 2022.
Action 340Update climate adaptation impact and vulnerability analysis
Q4 2021 measure: Review current Impact and Vulnerability Analysis
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Complete
Update: A review of the impact and vulnerability assessment process for the agriculture and forest sector as part of 2019 adaptation plan development was caried out. A detailed examination of the Climate Impact Screening process was undertaken and considered the recently published EPA reports: The Status of Ireland’s Climate, 2020 and the High-resolution Climate Projections for Ireland – A Multi-model Ensemble Approach which updated the information used in the 2019 assessment. The updated observed and projected changes in climate were each considered in turn and found that the 2019 assessment was successful as it correctly identified the priority risks and consequences for the sector e.g. the projected increased variability of precipitation will have adverse implications for agriculture in terms of droughts, flooding, and water management. The recommendations made were: • to incorporate updated climate information into a revised background document for the Agriculture, Forest and Seafood Climate Change Sectoral Adaptation Plan. • to review composition and Terms of Reference of the internal adaptation steering group and establish a mechanism for review of policy developments across the Department to assess adaptation issues and to ensure policy is climate proofed, in line with action contained in 2021 Climate Action Plan.
Action 340Update climate adaptation impact and vulnerability analysis
Q1 2022 measure: Update the Impact and Vulnerability assessment
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Complete
Update: The Impact and Vulnerability Analysis has been updated and has been incorporated into the Background Document. The Review examined: • each of the eleven climate variables to identify any extreme weather events impacting the sector and/or to update observed changes since the plan was published in October 2019, and; • the updated projections taken primarily from EPA Report No.339. The review made it possible to see if the context in which the 2019 assessment was carried out has changed in a manner which would necessitate the impact and vulnerabilities assessment, or any part of it, be redone. The finding was there is no need to carry out the entire impact and vulnerabilities assessment at this interim stage. In terms of the priority impacts the approach taken for the 2019 Plan has been demonstrated to have been successful in that the impacts identified as priorities for the sector have been reinforced in other studies since the publication of the Sectoral Adaptation Plan
Action 346Provide knowledge and expert advice on predicted grass growth
Q1 2022 measure: Provide farmers with fertiliser advice that is based on predicted grass
growth and modelling
Responsible body: Teagasc
Status: Complete
Update: Most Grass growth model has commenced, predicting spring grass growth with climate, farm cover, soil condition and slurry and fertiliser inputs. Predictions from this input are disseminated through weekly Grass 10 newsletter. These predictions will take place for the remainder of the grass growing season.
Action 348Introduce enhanced knowledge transfer programme through Teagasc advisory service on farm diversification
Q1 2022 measure: Review effectiveness of Teagasc options programme which covers
promotion of organics and farm income diversification options, towards increasing the
uptake at farm level of low input organic systems to achieve government targets
Responsible body: Teagasc
Status: Complete
Update: The Options programme which supports organics runs in parallel with the broader organics advisory programme in Teagasc, in which Organic Specialists translate research, provide support materials, organise national, regional and local organic events and provide training for advisers across the organisation to support farmers considering conversion. Growth in the uptake of organics at a national level has seen modest growth in the period coinciding with these activities, however the area under organics doubled from c. 1% to 2% of agricultural area in Ireland over the past decade. In response to these emerging and immediate policy needs to grow the organic sector in Ireland, Teagasc has committed to building Knowledge Transfer and Research capacity to increase supports for farmers that are suitable and motivated to transition to organic farming systems. This recognises that while the Options programme has and continues to create awareness of opportunities in organic farming, the key component of the development of Teagasc’s capacity to develop the organic sector will be through the provision of additional specialist technical and advisory supports directly to farmers. These include: • The inclusion of organic farms in the Teagasc Signpost Programme (currently 5) • Identification of ‘Organic Contact Advisers’ who will act as a local contact in each of the 12 Teagasc Regional Management Units • Increasing Organic Specialist capacity to address technical knowledge gaps • The creation of a new cohort of Organic Accelerator Advisers who will be focused on promoting organics, growing the sector and building farmer confidence and technical skills.
Action 348Introduce enhanced knowledge transfer programme through Teagasc advisory service on farm diversification
Q1 2022 measure: Implement recommendations for enhanced knowledge transfer
programme
Responsible body: Teagasc
Status: Complete
Update: Teagasc have developed a strategy for accelerating climate actions through advisory services that will encompass this objective. The strategy has been presented for discussion to the Teagasc Authority and is currently under review in conjunction with DAFM regarding resourcing for implementation. This strategy includes the developed of additional and ‘new’ advisory services in the areas of climate action and for organic farming systems.
Action 349Roll-out of advisory and education services to farmers
Q4 2021 measure: Generate Carbon Footprint Reports to members of the Sustainable
Beef and Dairy Assurance Schemes
Responsible body: Bord Bia
Status: Complete
Update: By year end 2021, 24,009 Farmer Feedback Report (carbon footprint reports) were dispatched by post to certified members of the Sustainable Beef and Lamb Assurance Scheme (SBLAS) and the Sustainable Dairy Assurance Scheme. Additionally, members can now log on to the producer portal, farm.bordbia.ie to access a soft copy of the report. This service was made available in October 2021 and by year end, 5,864 farmers had logged on and downloaded a soft copy of their farmer feedback report. This will continue in 2022.
Action 349Roll-out of advisory and education services to farmers
Q4 2021 measure: Develop and enhance knowledge transfer groups for forestry to reach
new audiences
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Complete
Update: In 2020, there were 43 knowledge transfer groups set up with 809 participants approved under the Knowledge Transfer Group Scheme. These groups were extended to the end of 2021 to provide opportunities for all approved groups to hold their meetings as per their schedules which was interrupted in 2020 due to Covid-19 restrictions. The Knowledge Transfer Group is operating as a pilot scheme and has proved successful in delivering knowledge to targeted audiences.
Action 350Produce Origin Green Farmer Feedback Reports
Q4 2021 measure: Communications campaign to raise awareness of Farmer Feedback
Reports via text, newsletter, media, SM, advisor discussion groups
Responsible body: Bord Bia
Status: Complete
Update: As part of the Signpost Programme’s Advisory Campaign in Q4, Teagasc and Bord Bia collaborated on a campaign to encourage farmers to engage with climate action. The campaign focused on raising awareness among farmers of their Carbon Footprint through the Farmer Feedback Report. The campaign highlighted how the Farmer Feedback Report can be used for decision-making on-farm, either by engaging with a Teagasc advisor or by interpreting the advice contained within the report. The campaign included media partnership, direct communications via text and newsletter, webinars, discussion groups and advisor training. Nine Farm Walks were attended by Bord Bia staff as part of the “Know Your Carbon Footprint” Teagasc Signpost Programme. Two webinars hosted by Teagasc as part of the “Know Your Carbon Footprint” campaign have been attended by Bord Bia staff to assist farmers and industry stakeholders to know where to locate the farmer feedback report online and to assist with interpreting the data communicated through the report.
Action 353Assess the economic and employment implications of the transition to a low-carbon economy
Q1 2022 measure: Conclude Phase 2 of the assessment of the implications of climate
mitigation options on socioeconomic value of agricultural production and the rural economy
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Delayed
Update: The report is being finalised internally and will be available shortly.
Action 354Develop Lamb Carbon Foot printing of Lamb scope members of SBLAS
Q1 2022 measure: Integrate required model input data into the SBLAS audit procedure
Responsible body: Bord Bia
Status: Complete
Update: The model input data required for the completion of a lamb carbon footprint calculation are now integrated into the SBLAS audit procedures. Testing of data collection and farmers user experience with SBLAS members is currently underway with auditors and Lamb Scope SBLAS members.
Action 354Develop Lamb Carbon Foot printing of Lamb scope members of SBLAS
Q1 2022 measure: Calculate Lamb Carbon footprint results for Lamb scope SBLAS
members
Responsible body: Bord Bia
Status: Complete
Update: All Lamb Scope members of SBLAS will be required to submit lamb productivity data from 8 March 2022. To assist farmers with completing the lamb sustainability survey auditors and SBLAS helpdesk staff have received training how the complete each question. Additionally, farmers will receive SMS notification of reminders to complete the survey prior to the audit either on-line or via telephone with the SBLAS helpdesk. 131 Lamb Scope members have submitted data sustainability data on their lamb enterprise. Their lamb carbon footprints will be calculated once they have become certified to SBLAS, approx. 30 days after the date of audit.
Action 356Develop a Farmer eLearning Platform
Q4 2021 measure: Develop a Learning Management System on sustainability topics for
farmers
Responsible body: Bord Bia
Status: Complete
Update: The Farm Sustainability Learning Hub launched in October 2021. There are currently five modules available to members of the Sustainable Assurance Schemes including ‘An introduction to Greenhouse Gases’, ‘The Teagasc Marginal Abatement Cost Curve’ and the SEAI’s ‘Energy Efficiency in Agriculture’. To date over 1,300 farmers have registered on the Learning Hub. Two marketing campaigns are scheduled this year to increase user engagement and two more modules will be added in March relating to Soil Health and Water Quality. Bord Bia will collaborate further with Teagasc and other stakeholders to add more content throughout the year.
Action 357Develop Farm Sustainability Planner
Q4 2021 measure: Develop specification for action tool
Responsible body: Bord Bia
Status: Complete
Update: Bord Bia, in collaboration with Teagasc, have developed a specification for an online platform for advisors and farmers. The Farm Sustainability Planner Tool aims to compile an inventory of best practice sustainability actions into one easy-to-use tool which will produce farm-specific sustainability plans for farmers. Bord Bia are engaging with Teagasc to build the inventory of sustainability actions including the measures outlined in the Teagasc Marginal Abatement Cost Curve. The build of the platform will begin in March 2022 and will be piloted in Q3 2022.
Action 358Support the maximum possible environment and climate ambition in the post-2020 Common Agricultural Policy
Q4 2021 measure: Undertake a Public consultation on the Strategic Environmental
Assessment (SEA) of the draft Common Agricultural Policy Strategic Plan
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Complete
Update: A 30-day public consultation on the draft Environmental Report, draft CAP Strategic Plan 2023-2027 and the draft Natura Impact Statement was launched on the 8th of November 2021 and concluded on the 8th of December 2021. Over 1,200 submissions were received as part of the consultation. These were considered by the Department in advance of the submission of the CAP Strategic Plan (CSP) to the EU.
Action 358Support the maximum possible environment and climate ambition in the post-2020 Common Agricultural Policy
Q1 2022 measure: Submit draft Common Agricultural Policy Strategic Plan to the
European Commission
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Complete
Update: The CAP Strategic Plan (CSP) was submitted to the Commission on 31.12.2021. The Commission are now assessing the Plan, with formal feedback anticipated in late March or April 2022. Ireland’s CSP places a significant emphasis on climate and environmental action, under the CAP’s new “Green Architecture.” There are three core elements within the Green Architecture - Conditionality, Pillar 1 Eco-Schemes and Pillar 2 climate and environmental related interventions, which all contribute to environmental and climate action. Many of the measures proposed in the CSP have multifunctional benefits addressing biodiversity, climate and water quality objectives.
Action 359Implement suite of measures to improve nitrogen use efficiency
Q4 2021 measure: Complete research in respect of potential food residues arising from
certain fertiliser formulations (e.g., protected urea), which will allow industry to have
confidence in the widespread use of these products which lower N2O emissions
Responsible body: Teagasc
Status: Complete
Update: Scientific residues paper was published showing no risk of residues in milk associated with protected urea use. These results have been widely publicised and reported in a range of media including Teagasc Daily, The farming Independent and the Irish Farmers Journal amongst others.
Action 360Improve on-farm slurry management
Q4 2021 measure: Communicate the terms and conditions of the Nitrates Derogation and
2019 Nitrates Derogation Review to farmers regarding efficiency of manure and fertiliser
use, with the support of Teagasc and Industry
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Complete
Update: Following the 2019 nitrates derogation review, new measures for nitrates derogation farmers were communicated to all stakeholders and were included in the terms and conditions for the nitrates derogation applications in 2021, circulars, clarifications and FAQs which are available at gov.ie - Rural Environment & Sustainability - Nitrates (www.gov.ie). There were multiple meetings with advisors and stakeholders from 2019-2021 on the implementation of these new measures. One of the measures implemented from the 2019 derogation review, in relation to efficiency of manure and fertiliser use, was the requirement to complete training on grassland management, nutrient use efficiency and farming sustainably under derogation. Completion of training is a compulsory requirement for entry into nitrates derogation going forward (new applicants will have the year of application to complete the course) and information on training requirements is available at the link above and also on the Teagasc website. Work is currently ongoing to conclude the 2021 Nitrates Derogation Review and results of this along with the 2022 Nitrates Derogation terms and conditions will be communicated in the same format (subject to European Commission approval of Ireland’s derogation request).
Action 360Improve on-farm slurry management
Q4 2021 measure: Adopt a pilot scheme for slurry additives in external stores to examine
the effect of slurry additives on ammonia emissions
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Complete
Update: Findings from the research project on mitigating ammonia and greenhouse gas emissions from stored cattle slurry using agricultural waste, commercially available products and a chemical acidifier was published in 2021. The findings reported significant effect on ammonia emissions associated with the additives included in the project.
Action 361Develop and Implement Bioeconomy work programme in support of the
use of sustainable, renewable biological resources to displace fossil
fuels for chemical, material and energy purposes
Q4 2021 measure: Appoint Chair, confirm work programme and invite members for
National Bioeconomy Forum
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Complete
Update: The Bioeconomy Forum Held its 2nd meeting on 8 October 2021 where the Work Programme was finalised. Implementation of the programme commenced in Q4 2021.
Action 362Train farm advisors to support farmers in the implementation of climate mitigation practices at farm level.
Q4 2021 measure: Develop and roll-out a Training of Farm Advisors Programme to 400
public and private advisors in 2021 to upskill in key areas such as climate change, health
and safety, biodiversity, and soil and water challenges
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Delayed
Update: Following two procurement processes, contracts have been signed with an online training platform provider and a training content provider. The Continuing Professional Development Programme is due to be launched in May 2022, with the roll out of the first training module on climate change mitigation and adaption. Further modules will be released in Q2 and Q3 2022.
Action 363Support Regional Assemblies to identify areas of potential growth in the bioeconomy
Q1 2022 measure: Invite one Regional Assembly to attend the Bioeconomy Forum
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Complete
Update: The Southern Regional Assembly representative was invited and attended the 3rd Bioeconomy forum meeting held on 12 January 2022.

Transport

Action 231Continue the improvement and expansion of the Active Travel and Greenway Network
Q4 2021 measure: Establish a coordination group to assist in the development and
cohesion of various cycling infrastructure standards, with a view to enhancing cyclist safety
Responsible body: D/Transport
Status: Complete
Update: Group established Q4 2021.
Action 231Continue the improvement and expansion of the Active Travel and Greenway Network
Q1 2022 measure: Develop the National Cycling Manual
Responsible body: NTA
Status: Delayed
Update: Development of the new cycle infrastructure manual has been quite complex. A draft document for consultation along with advice notes in key areas for publication will be available in Q2 2022; full publication is expected in Q3 2022. On-site works are not delayed as they are being designed to current guidelines.
Action 231Continue the improvement and expansion of the Active Travel and Greenway Network
Q1 2022 measure: Promote and approve the delivery of Greenway projects as defined by
the Minister
Responsible body: TII
Status: Complete
Update: Code published on 16 December 2021. Please see: https://www.tii.ie/news/press- releases/code-best-practice-greenways/
Action 234Encourage an increased level of modal shift towards Active Travel (walking and cycling) and away from private car use
Q4 2021 measure: Ensure that an equivalent of 20% of the Transport Capital Budget is
dedicated to Active Travel and Greenways (walking and cycling)
Responsible body: D/Transport
Status: Complete
Update: €289 m allocated to NTA for active travel; €6 m allocated to smarter travel projects. €57 m allocated to TII for greenways, with another €3 m allocated to various greenway-related projects within D/Transport; and €4 m allocated to TII for active travel. The remaining €1 m is to be distributed following allocations under various funds (Rural Regeneration and Development Fund / Urban Regeneration and Development Fund /Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme).
Action 234Encourage an increased level of modal shift towards Active Travel (walking and cycling) and away from private car use
Q4 2021 measure: Publish the NTA’s 5-Year Walking and Cycling Delivery Plan
Responsible body: NTA
Status: Delayed
Update: Plan being substantially revised to better reflect the Climate Aciton Plan 2021 direction on the re-allocation of road space.
Action 235Accelerate sustainable mobility plans for schools
Q1 2022 measure: Expansion of Cycle Right Training in primary and post-primary schools
Responsible body: Cycling Ireland
Status: Complete
Update: Impacted by Covid-19 pandemic, but new Service Level Agreement will be agreed shortly to continue the increase in numbers.
Action 236Legislate to improve the Active Travel environment in urban centres
Q4 2021 measure: Introduce a new road safety strategy focused on reducing death and
injuries of pedestrians and cyclists
Responsible body: RSA
Status: Complete
Update: Road Safety Strategy published in December 2021.
Action 237Enable use of e-scooters and e-bikes
Q4 2021 measure: Legislative provisions for Powered Personal Transporters included in
Road Traffic Miscellaneous Provisions Bill
Responsible body: D/Transport
Status: Delayed
Update: Completion of this action is dependent on the passage of the Bill through the Oireachtas. The Oireachtas accepted committee-stage amendments on 22 February 2022. A date for committee stage debate is expected shortly, with a view to finalisation before end Q2 2022.
Action 238Publish the new Sustainable Mobility Policy
Q1 2022 measure: As per headline action
Responsible body: D/Transport
Status: Complete
Update: Published the new Sustainable Mobility Policy on 7 April 2022.
Action 239Commence delivery of BusConnects Network Redesign Dublin
Q4 2021 measure: Implementation of redesigned bus network (Phase 2)
Responsible body: NTA
Status: Complete
Update: Second phase of BusConnects Dublin Network Redesign (C-Spine - Lucan/Leixlip/Celbridge corridor) launched in November 2021.
Action 242Commence delivery of BusConnects in Cork (Core Bus Corridor Infrastructure Works)
Q1 2022 measure: Commence initial public consultation on proposals for Core Bus
Corridors in Cork
Responsible body: NTA
Status: Delayed
Update: Public consultation expected to commence mid-April.
Action 244Commence delivery of BusConnects in Galway (Core Bus Corridor Infrastructure Works)
Q1 2022 measure: Submit planning consent application for Cross City Link, a central part
of BusConnects Galway
Responsible body: Galway City Council
Status: Delayed
Update: Planning application expected to be submitted in Q2 2022.
Action 245Implement an enhanced rural transport system through delivery of Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan
Q4 2021 measure: Carry out a national public consultation for Connecting Ireland
Responsible body: NTA
Status: Complete
Update: Public consultation carried out by the National Transport Authority from 2 November to 10 December 2021. The National Transport Authority are finalising proposals from feedback received via public consultation.
Action 245Implement an enhanced rural transport system through delivery of Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan
Q4 2021 measure: Identify the potential for integration of nonemergency health transport
services with the Local Link services managed by the NTA (funding required) by conducting
and monitoring a pilot project in Leitrim to deliver non-emergency health transport services
Responsible body: D/Transport
Status: Complete
Update: Pilot commenced in July 2021 and currently being monitored by the National Transport Authority.
Action 245Implement an enhanced rural transport system through delivery of Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan
Q1 2022 measure: Complete the preliminary business case supporting Connecting Ireland
Responsible body: NTA
Status: Delayed
Update: As of March 2022, the final business case has been received by D/Transport and is undergoing internal review.
Action 245Implement an enhanced rural transport system through delivery of Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan
Q1 2022 measure: Finalise the network of services
Responsible body: NTA
Status: Complete
Update: NTA have finalised service specifications for the first tranche of projects scheduled for implementation in 2022.
Action 245Implement an enhanced rural transport system through delivery of Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan
Q1 2022 measure: Develop plans for bus services in Carlow
Responsible body: NTA
Status: Complete
Update: Tendering process for Carlow New Town services is ongoing.
Action 246Commence delivery of DART+ Programme and continue heavy rail fleet investment
Q4 2021 measure: Award framework for electric and battery electric DART fleet and place
first order
Responsible body: Iarnród Éireann
Status: Complete
Update: Contract awarded and initial order placed for 95 carriages, comprising six sets of five-carriage conventional electric trains and thirteen sets of five-carriage battery-electric trains.
Action 249Expand Smarter Travel Workplaces Programme
Q1 2022 measure: Invite all government bodies and large workplaces that are not current
partners to join the programme
Responsible body: NTA
Status: Complete
Update: Of the range of Government Departments and Agencies, three have signed up already (DAFM, DETE, and Office of the Attorney General). Further meetings were held with several Departments; NTA expect DHGLH, D/Finance and DPER to sign up.
Action 250Examine the role of demand management measures in Irish cities, including low emission zones and parking pricing policies
Q4 2021 measure: Publish findings of the Demand Management study
Responsible body: D/Transport
Status: Complete
Update: Report published on 25 November 2021.
Action 251Publish the impact of speed and speed limits on greenhouse gas emissions and pollutants
Q1 2022 measure: Publish results and identify regulatory barriers and develop proposals
to address them
Responsible body: D/Transport
Status: Delayed
Update: Final report received and being submitted to Minister, with publication to follow. No significant delay expected.
Action 253Conduct review of Community Car Scheme
Q1 2022 measure: Undertake review to consider expansion of scheme
Responsible body: D/Transport
Status: Complete
Update: Report has been received from the National Transport Authority and submitted to the Minister for Transport.
Action 254Require all cities with a population exceeding 75,000 to produce a
sustainable transport plan for review by National Transport Authority
and D/Transport
Q1 2022 measure: Finalise and publish sustainable transport plan for Limerick
Responsible body: Local Authorities
Status: Delayed
Update: Draft Limerick Shannon Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy published by National Transport Authority for public consultation in summer 2020. A second round of public consultation due to take place in early Q2 2022 on a revised draft strategy before finalisation.
Action 256Ensure all metropolitan transport strategies reflect Climate Action Plan sectoral emission reduction targets
Q1 2022 measure: Review Transport Strategy for the Greater Dublin Area
Responsible body: NTA
Status: Delayed
Update: Review of Transport Strategy for the Greater Dublin Area ongoing. The National Transport Authority published a draft revised strategy for public consultation in November 2021. Consultation responses currently under review by the National Transport Authority, with submission to D/Transport expected April 2022.
Action 256Ensure all metropolitan transport strategies reflect Climate Action Plan sectoral emission reduction targets
Q1 2022 measure: Develop Limerick Shannon Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy
Responsible body: NTA
Status: Delayed
Update: NTA published a revised draft Limerick Shannon Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy for public consultation on 26 April (follows initial draft consultation in November 2021). Consultation period will run to 10 June, so finalisation now likely in Q3 2022.
Action 258Advance Demand Management Measures
Q4 2021 measure: Carry out annual sustainable transport satisfaction surveys
Responsible body: NTA
Status: Delayed
Update: Prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, the National Transport Authority carried out annual customer satisfication surveys. A survey was not carried out in Q4 due to ongoing public health restrictions.
Action 258Advance Demand Management Measures
Q4 2021 measure: Develop a Memorandum of Understanding for the provision of
Transport Planning, analysis and modelling to support policy development to reduce
transport emissions
Responsible body: NTA
Status: Complete
Update: MoU signed at Assistant Secretary level. Project plan submitted by National Transport Authority. Workshop held by D/Transport to gather expert views on decarbonisation measures. Output from NTA analysis expected Q2 2022.
Action 260Increase provision of park and ride/share at transport interchanges
Q4 2021 measure: Introduction of Park and Share site for the M1
Responsible body: TII
Status: Complete
Update: Louth County Council opened the 226-bay Park and Share Facility at M1 Junction 16 on 29 September 2021.
Action 260Increase provision of park and ride/share at transport interchanges
Q1 2022 measure: Commence implementation of Park and Ride Strategy for the Greater
Dublin Area
Responsible body: NTA
Status: Complete
Update: Implementation has commenced. The Park and Ride Development Office has identified several sites within the zones recommended in the Park and Ride Strategy and is currently assessing these sites with respect to engineering, land use, planning and public transport aspects. From this, it will identify the preferred site options and undertake multi-criteria analysis. In conjunction with key stakeholders, including Local Authorities and Iarnród Éireann, the projects will be progressed through to planning.
Action 262Deliver sustainable bus priority measures on the National Road Network
Q1 2022 measure: Update design standards to facilitate Bus priority measures with
associated dynamic traffic management on the national road network
Responsible body: TII
Status: Delayed
Update: D/Transport expect TII to deliver publication in June 2022. Draft document has been prepared and circulated within TII and NTA. Consideration was given to withholding publication pending the implementation of a pilot scheme; however, it has now been confirmed that this will not further delay publication. The draft is almost complete. A gap was identified relating to the management of completed bus lanes, and in particular how safety issues will be managed on an ongoing basis. Further detailed input from TII’s Network Operations regarding this is to be incorporated.
Action 263Publish new investment framework for land transport in Ireland
Q4 2021 measure: Complete public consultation and publish framework
Responsible body: D/Transport
Status: Complete
Update: To support achieving the National Strategic Outcomes of the Natioanl Planning Frameowrk, D/Transport published a new investment framework for land transport, the National Investment Framework for Transport in Ireland (NIFTI), in December 2021. In recognition of the importance of achieving our climate goals, decarbonisation is one of the four investment priorities set out in NIFTI. All new investments planned for the transport sector will have to demonstrate their alignment with these priorities to be considered for funding. NIFTI also requires new investments to be considered in the framework of a modal hierarchy, which promotes the consideration of active travel solutions first, followed by public transport, and ahead of solutions reliant on private transport. Please see: https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/cfae6-national-investment-framework-for- transport-in-ireland-nifti/
Action 264Award a contract to support the replacement of 78,000 lights in the
southwest region as part of the national public lighting energy
efficiency project and progress remaining 202,000
Q1 2022 measure: Complete the tender process and award contract
Responsible body: D/Transport
Status: Complete
Update: Contract awarded and letter of acceptance issued on 31 December 2021.
Action 268Transition Dublin Metropolitan PSO bus services to low/zero emission bus fleet
Q4 2021 measure: Award framework for the purchase of double deck electric buses and
place first order
Responsible body: NTA
Status: Complete
Update: Framework awarded and first order for double-deck electric buses placed in March 2022.
Action 268Transition Dublin Metropolitan PSO bus services to low/zero emission bus fleet
Q1 2022 measure: Introduce hybrid buses into full service
Responsible body: NTA
Status: Delayed
Update: 213 out of the 219 hybrid buses on order for Dublin Metropolitan Area PSO services are now in service. Delays are Covid-19 and supply chain related.
Action 269Transition Cork, Galway, Limerick, and Waterford metropolitan area PSO bus services to low/zero emission bus fleet
Q4 2021 measure: Award framework for the purchase of double deck electric buses and
place first order
Responsible body: NTA
Status: Complete
Update: Framework awarded and first order for double-deck electric buses placed in March 2022.
Action 269Transition Cork, Galway, Limerick, and Waterford metropolitan area PSO bus services to low/zero emission bus fleet
Q1 2022 measure: Introduce hybrid buses into full service in Galway and Limerick
Responsible body: NTA
Status: Complete
Update: All 61 hybrid buses for Galway city and Limerick city PSO services are now in service.
Action 271Transition PSO Local Link bus services to low-/zero- emission bus fleets
Q1 2022 measure: Deploy two electric vehicle buses on the Dingle peninsula, Co. Kerry
Responsible body: NTA
Status: Delayed
Update: Delays to Dingle EV Bus Pilot caused due to several factors combined: • Site selection process – the search for a site to host the charging infrastructure took longer than expected. The only suitable site in terms of proximity to service, security, size, and cooperative landowner was not connected to the ESB grid. Therefore additional time and resources were required to arrange and construct a new connection. • Global supply issues – the delivery of the electric buses themselves were delayed by around six months as a result of global shortages and supply line issues.
Action 272Develop a policy pathway to drive a significant ramp-up in passenger
EVs and electric van sales and/or disincentivise fossil-fuelled
passenger vehicles and vans
Q4 2021 measure: Monitor and review recent vehicle tax reform in light of new emissions
testing standards
Responsible body: DFIN
Status: Complete
Update: Recent vehicle tax reforms reviewed, policy suggestions outlined in 2021. Tax Strategy Group Paper on Climate Action and Tax, presented for Budget 2022. Policy alterations made in Budget 2022 will be reviewed and new options considered in this year’s Tax Strategy Group paper.
Action 272Develop a policy pathway to drive a significant ramp-up in passenger
EVs and electric van sales and/or disincentivise fossil-fuelled
passenger vehicles and vans
Q4 2021 measure: Consider the recommendations of the Electric Vehicle Policy Pathway
Working Group
Responsible body: D/Transport
Status: Complete
Update: First meeting of Electric Vehicle Policy Pathway group held, in which terms of reference and work programme agreed. Progress report to government due Q4 2022.
Action 272Develop a policy pathway to drive a significant ramp-up in passenger
EVs and electric van sales and/or disincentivise fossil-fuelled
passenger vehicles and vans
Q4 2021 measure: Engagement to influence the direction of EU regulation regarding
Internal Combustion Engine vehicles sales and CO2 emission performance standards
Responsible body: D/Transport
Status: Complete
Update: Ireland signed a non paper with Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Greece, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta and Netherland in March 2021 outlining a common position on four essential priorities to achieve the transition to zero emission vehicles. This coalition is still active. At COP26, Ireland endorsed a declaration on zero-emission cars. This declaration is consistent with our national ambitions for road transport. We are following up on this declarations across the sector.
Action 272Develop a policy pathway to drive a significant ramp-up in passenger
EVs and electric van sales and/or disincentivise fossil-fuelled
passenger vehicles and vans
Q1 2022 measure: Continue to support the greening of the taxi fleet
Responsible body: D/Transport
Status: Complete
Update: New scheme launched on 4 February 2022.
Action 273Identify options to increase EV uptake to support the transition away from grant supports
Q1 2022 measure: Reconvene the Electric Vehicle Policy Pathway Steering Group to
examine options including regulation and taxation etc. with a view to bringing
recommendations to Government
Responsible body: D/Transport
Status: Complete
Update: First meeting of Electric Vehicle Policy Pathway Working Group took place on 25 March 2022. D/Transport engaging with D/Finance on next steps.
Action 274Establish an Office for Low Emitting Vehicles to co-ordinate the implementation of existing and future EV measures and infrastructure
Q4 2021 measure: Secure funding for an appropriately resourced and funded OLEV
Responsible body: D/Transport
Status: Complete
Update: Funding secured in Budget 2022.
Action 276Enable greater EV infrastructure roll-out for passenger cars and vans
Q1 2022 measure: Review planning guidelines for residential and non-residential parking
locations for Electric Vehicle charging infrastructure and issue guidance to Local Authorities
Responsible body: DHLGH
Status: Delayed
Update: The Development Plan Guidelines are being finalised and are due to be published in Q2 2022.
Action 277Develop a national infrastructure strategy to address on-street, location
and fast charging infrastructure needs to stay ahead of demand, having
particular regard to non-urban needs
Q1 2022 measure: Publish national infrastructure strategy
Responsible body: D/Transport
Status: Complete
Update: Published on 31 March 2022. Please see: https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/9ae6e-electric-vehicle-charging-infrastructure-strategy- 2022-2025/.
Action 278Launch a Destination Charger Scheme to install publicly accessible EV charging infrastructure
Q1 2022 measure: Develop and launch the scheme
Responsible body: D/Transport
Status: Delayed
Update: Additional legal advice being sought from AGO. Terms and conditions of the scheme in development with stakeholders. Department to engage with Commission on State Aid aspect. Grant administrator being engaged. Now expected to launch with final strategy.
Action 279Amend the Home Charger Grant Scheme to include apartments
Q1 2022 measure: Develop a pilot scheme to model the benefits of installing EV
infrastructure to agencies/housing associations
Responsible body: D/Transport
Status: Delayed
Update: Final legal checks in progress. Department expecting to engage informally with Commission ahead of launch with final strategy publication.
Action 280Support the transition to electric vehicles in Gaeltacht communities through investment in EV infrastructure
Q1 2022 measure: Establish fund to support the installation of electric car charging points
at existing sports and recreational facilities across the Gaeltacht
Responsible body: DTCAGSM
Status: Delayed
Update: Discussions are ongoing on integrating this action with the Department of Transport’s forthcoming Destination Charging schemes, under their EV Infrastructure Charging Strategy. These schemes will see the installation of EV charge points at a range of destinations and amenities such as sports facilities, Gaeltacht community and cultural centres, tourist sites and hotels. Delivery date expected: Q4 2022.
Action 281Identify measures to support the shift to 95,000 electric vans
Q1 2022 measure: Establish an industry forum to encourage the uptake of electric vehicles
as a form of communication / outreach to industry
Responsible body: D/Transport
Status: Delayed
Update: The Department of Transport is currently working to establish Zero Emission Vehicles Ireland (ZEVI). This office will have overall responsibility for the delivery of the Government’s commitments in respect of the transition to electric vehicles for private passenger cars and vans. It is intended to establish ZEVI in July 2022. Establishing an industry forum for vans will form part of the engagement activities on the work programme of that office.
Action 282Set a roadmap for more LEVs in Public Sector Fleets
Q4 2021 measure: Issue circular to all Local Authorities and Public Sector Bodies calling
for the cessation of ICE vehicle procurement in the car and van fleets – with excepts for
certain vehicle categories
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Delayed
Update: The Public Sector Mandate (expected to be published in Q2 2022 pending receipt of Government approval) includes the requirement to purchase only zero-emission vehicles where available and operationally feasible. The Public Sector Strategy (due Q3 2022) will provide further guidance and DECC will also consult with DPER, Local Authorities etc. on this.
Action 283Set out the planned level of biofuel use for the period to 2030
Q1 2022 measure: Transpose the biofuel elements of the Renewable Energy Directive
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Delayed
Update: The Biofuels elements will be included in a draft SI to transpose a number of articles from the recast Renewable Energy Directive (RED II). Discussions with a legislative drafter to transpose the Renewable Energy Directive are ongoing.
Action 284Rollout planned refuelling infrastructure
Q4 2021 measure: Commission three Compressed Natural Gas stations and further the
progress of the remaining stations
Responsible body: Gas Networks Ireland
Status: Complete
Update: There are currently seven Compressed Natural Gas stations operational in Ireland and a further pipeline of 9 stations are in planning and development.
Action 285Complete Strategic Rail Review to, inter alia, identify a pathway to appropriate decarbonisation of interurban rail service
Q1 2022 measure: Continue to support the delivery of the Irish Rail Hybrid Drive for Inter
City Railcar Project
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Complete
Update: The project will install, test and validate a new EU Stage V emissions compliant diesel engine & EcoWorld transmission (Powerpack). This stage of the project will see 6 powerpacks in total fitted to two 3 car train sets. The powerpacks have been installed on the first train set and the testing and commissioning phase of this train will start in February 2022. Passenger operation is expected to commence in April/May 2022. The testing and commissioning phase for the second train set is expected to start in August 2022 with passenger operation expected in September 2022.
Action 286Publish an updated policy statement on renewable fuels for transport
Q4 2021 measure: Publish an updated policy statement on renewable fuels setting out the
planned level of biofuel use from the end of 2021 to 2030
Responsible body: D/Transport
Status: Complete
Update: Renewable Fuels for Transport Policy Statement published on 25 November 2021.
Action 286Publish an updated policy statement on renewable fuels for transport
Q4 2021 measure: Deliver supporting legislation for changes to the Biofuels Obligation
Scheme requiring implementation and compliance by account holders (suppliers)
Responsible body: D/Transport
Status: Complete
Update: Order signed in capacity as Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications to increase the biofuel blend rate to 13% by volume on 1 January 2022.
Action 287Support the development of renewable gas, such as biomethane, as a transport fuel in the transport sector
Q4 2021 measure: Evaluate Section 285c of the Taxes Consolidation Act allowing for
Capital Allowances for Gas Vehicles and refuelling equipment
Responsible body: DFIN
Status: Complete
Update: Following an evaluation of the scheme, Finance Act 2021 extended the scheme’s availability for 3 years to year-end 2025 and amended it to include hydrogen powered vehicles and refuelling equipment.
Action 291Implement the mandatory targets identified in the Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR)
Q1 2022 measure: Reflect principle of EV infrastructure targets outlined in the draft AFIR
in the National EV Infrastructure Strategy
Responsible body: D/Transport
Status: Complete
Update: AFIR still under negotiation but potential for future targets alignment referenced in published EV infrastructure strategy.
Action 292Assess options to ensure commercial State ports are positioned to facilitate the development of offshore renewable energy
Q4 2021 measure: Conduct assessment in consultation with relevant Offshore Wind
Energy stakeholders
Responsible body: D/Transport
Status: Complete
Update: Assessment completed and internal report finalised. Minister decided on multi-port approach to provision of port facilities. Memo went to Government on 14 December 2021. Policy Statement and Press Release issued on 21 December 2021.
Action 292Assess options to ensure commercial State ports are positioned to facilitate the development of offshore renewable energy
Q1 2022 measure: Commence preparation of roadmap for implementing the results of the
assessment
Responsible body: D/Transport
Status: Complete
Update: Terms of Reference drafted and first meeting of Ports Coordination Group held. Roadmap due for delivery in Q3 2022.
Action 293Assess the environmental impact of the internationally trading Irish fleet
Q4 2021 measure: Publish an analysis of the environmental impact of the current Irish
(internationally trading) fleet, to include benchmarking the Irish standard based on an
assessment of other flags
Responsible body: D/Transport
Status: Complete
Update: Published on 11 January 2022.
Action 295Through the Core Transport Adaptation Team, review the climate
adaptation activities currently ongoing and identify opportunities for
future implementation of relevant policy
Q4 2021 measure: Draft Terms of Reference for the revitalised Core Transport Adaptation
Team
Responsible body: D/Transport
Status: Complete
Update: The group has been reconvened with new ToR and membership agreed. The group has begun work on cataloguing all adaptation activities being carried out by D/Transport and its agencies to identify gaps and training needs for operators. D/Transport will be holding workshops with its agencies and operators in the coming months.
Action 296Identify opportunities for collaborative research in the area of climate adaptation for the transport sector
Q4 2021 measure: Discuss with key stakeholders how D/Transport can contribute to
collaborative research
Responsible body: D/Transport
Status: Complete
Update: D/Transport, along with TII, held discussions with Met Éireann for the transport sector to be the initial case study for the TRANSLATE project, with a view to cross-sectoral interaction to assess cascading impacts. D/Transport is also co-funding three EPA adaptation-focused studies, which will begin in the first half of 2022.

Electricity

Action 99Review the policy context for Large Energy Users (including Data
Centres), ensuring alignment of enterprise policy and wider regulatory
environment with electricity emission targets and security of supply
Q1 2022 measure: Publish High Level Roadmap on Corporate Power Purchase
Agreements
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Complete
Update: A High Level Roadmap on Corporate Power Purchase Agreements published on 31 March 2022.
Action 102Ensure supportive spatial planning framework for onshore renewable electricity generation development
Q1 2022 measure: Establish a steering group to oversee Local Authority Renewable
Energy Strategies, the framework for onshore renewable electricity development and
Regional Renewable Electricity Strategies
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Complete
Update: Steering Group has been established, with launch meeting held at end of March.
Action 104Deliver regular Onshore Renewable Electricity Support Scheme
auctions that aligns with spatial and planning policy and efficient use of
the network
Q4 2021 measure: Publish indicative forward RESS auction calendar
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Complete
Update: DECC published the Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS) auction schedule in December 2021.
Action 105Deliver a Microgeneration Policy Framework
Q4 2021 measure: Finalise design of a compensation framework for export for all
renewable-self consumers
Responsible body: CRU
Status: Complete
Update: Interim decision paper published by CRU and Guidance provided to suppliers.
Action 105Deliver a Microgeneration Policy Framework
Q4 2021 measure: Develop and trial a streamlined grid connection pathway for installation
sizes up to 50 kW
Responsible body: CRU
Status: Complete
Update: Pilot Scheme launched by ESBN in December 2021.
Action 105Deliver a Microgeneration Policy Framework
Q1 2022 measure: Publish the final High-Level Design for a Microgeneration Support
Scheme
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Delayed
Update: Following Government approval of the Microgeneration Support Scheme in December 2021, DECC are preparing to publish the Final Scheme Design document. DECC are liaising with the Commission for Regulation of Utilities on the Final Scheme Design document with a view to publication at the earliest opportunity.
Action 106Ensure communities benefit from renewable energy projects in RESS – benefit funds and ownership
Q4 2021 measure: Launch Community Enabling Framework Grants
Responsible body: SEAI
Status: Complete
Update: Complete for first round of projects in Q4 2021, opening to all potential future projects Q1 2022.
Action 106Ensure communities benefit from renewable energy projects in RESS – benefit funds and ownership
Q4 2021 measure: Progress reporting on status of Community Enabling Framework
Responsible body: SEAI
Status: Complete
Update: SEAI reported to steering board in Q4 2021.
Action 106Ensure communities benefit from renewable energy projects in RESS – benefit funds and ownership
Q1 2022 measure: Progress reporting on status of Community Enabling Framework
Responsible body: SEAI
Status: Complete
Update: SEAI presented to steering board at end of February
Action 107Conclude the review of the current planning exemptions relating to
solar panels, to ensure that households, schools, and communities can
be strong champions of climate action
Q1 2022 measure: Introduce interim regulations amending solar panel planning
exemptions, with defined exclusion zones around airports and aerodromes for solar
installations
Responsible body: DHLGH
Status: Delayed
Update: The review is complete and substantial changes to the planning exemptions for solar panels are proposed. It has been determined that a full Strategic Environmental Assessment on the draft regulations is required. The Appropriate Assessment screening has now been concluded by DHLGH’s Ecological Assessment Unit and the need for an Appropriate Assessment has been screened out. It is anticipated that the formal Strategic Environmental Assessment process will commence in the coming weeks with consultation with the statutory environmental authorities to inform the content of the Environmental Report. The Strategic Environmental Assessment Environmental Report will be published alongside the draft regulations for a period of public consultation of not less than 4 weeks. A copy of the draft regulations and the Environmental Report will be made available for inspection over this period. Written submissions or observations will be taken into consideration before finalisation of the draft regulation. The draft regulations will be submitted to the Houses of the Oireachtas for approval, as required under the Planning Acts, following the conclusion of the Strategic Environmental Assessment and Appropriate Assessment processes
Action 112Assess the network development required to integrate higher levels of
RES-E and develop a high-level network development plan to (and
beyond) 2030
Q4 2021 measure: North-South Interconnector:
1. Landowner engagement to progress access for surveys
2. Carry out surveys
3. Landowner engagement to progress land access for construction
4. Progress project procurement activities
Responsible body: EirGrid
Status: Complete
Update: The North South Interconnector is fully approved to proceed in both jurisdictions and Eirgrid is ready to start construction. Reaching this stage has involved, landowner engagement, surveys, agreeing access for construction and starting procurement. Minister has asked for delay to allow a report from an international expert on the choice of technology.
Action 112Assess the network development required to integrate higher levels of
RES-E and develop a high-level network development plan to (and
beyond) 2030
Q4 2021 measure: Celtic Interconnector: Progress project procurement activities for a new
interconnector connecting the electricity grid of Ireland and France
Responsible body: EirGrid
Status: Complete
Update: A comprehensive update on this project, including procurement activities, was provided to DECC by EirGrid in February 2022.
Action 113Facilitate very high penetration of variable renewable electricity through system services and market arrangements
Q1 2022 measure: Complete the remaining deliverables under the DS3 Programme to
enable 75% of the demand on the system to be met from variable renewable generation
Responsible body: EirGrid
Status: Complete
Update: All of the DS3 (Delivering a Secure Sustainable Electricity System) changes to operational practices are now complete, and reported in detail to the Project Board.
Action 115Review the policy position on the development of private networks/direct lines
Q1 2022 measure: Draft and publish consultation paper on policy options on Private Wires
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Delayed
Update: Draft consultation paper prepared. Issues have emerged which need to be resolved before paper can be published. Further work needed by DECC, CRU, Eirgrid.
Action 116Develop a new Offshore Renewable Energy Development Plan (OREDP II)
Q4 2021 measure: Establish an Offshore Renewable Energy Development Plan (OREDP)
steering group, agree structure and terms of reference for the project, encompassing a
comprehensive assessment of marine biodiversity using Observe 2 and other relevant
datasets
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Complete
Update: This project was initiated in Q3 2021, with the Steering Group and Data & Scientific Groups established and work on the plan is being progressed.
Action 117Facilitate the development of offshore wind, including the connection of
at least 5 GW of offshore wind, based on competitive auctions, to the
grid by 2030
Q4 2021 measure: Continued analysis of onshore transmission system capacity to
integrate 5GW of offshore wind, including any necessary reinforcements
Responsible body: EirGrid
Status: Complete
Update: EirGrid and DECC continue to engage closely on this issue, including via regular monthly or fortnightly meetings.
Action 117Facilitate the development of offshore wind, including the connection of
at least 5 GW of offshore wind, based on competitive auctions, to the
grid by 2030
Q1 2022 measure: Continued analysis of onshore transmission system capacity to
integrate 5GW of offshore wind, including any necessary reinforcements
Responsible body: EirGrid
Status: Complete
Update: EirGrid and DECC continue to engage closely on this issue, including via regular monthly or fortnightly meetings. Focus of discussions in particular related to the engagement between EirGrid and the 6/7 prospective participants in the first offshore RESS auction, and the Grid Connection Assessment process, which was scheduled to open for applications in Q2 2022.
Action 117Facilitate the development of offshore wind, including the connection of
at least 5 GW of offshore wind, based on competitive auctions, to the
grid by 2030
Q1 2022 measure: Develop a digital portal which allows the public and planners to
interrogate the marine planning map of Ireland and the relevant policies on a sectoral basis
Responsible body: DHLGH
Status: Complete
Update: The site for the digital portal - www.marineplan.ie has gone live and has been available to the public from 17 February 2022.
Action 120Ensure offshore renewable energy requirements are delivered in the Maritime Area Planning Bill
Q4 2021 measure: Enact Maritime Area Planning Bill which provides a comprehensive
regulatory basis for development of offshore renewable energy
Responsible body: DHLGH
Status: Complete
Update: Maritime Area Planning Act 2021 enacted on 23 December 2021.
Action 123Support the offshore and ocean energy research, development and
demonstration pathway for technologies and associated test
infrastructure
Q1 2022 measure: Provide ORE research funding to industry and academia, and facilitate
provision of ORE test infrastructure
Responsible body: SEAI
Status: Complete
Update: Funding provided to 15 ORE projects from 2021 Call by Q4 2021. 2022 Call being designed with ORE topics. Test sites include: - LiR National Ocean Test Facility - industry access scheme piloted with successful projects testing in Q1 2022, second call due in 2022. - Atlantic Marine Energy Test Site being further developed to allow pre-commercial testing from 2025.
Action 125Facilitate the connection of hybrid technologies that minimise grid reinforcement
Q1 2022 measure: Determine contractual framework approach to accommodate Multiple
Legal Entities behind a single connection point
Responsible body: CRU
Status: Delayed
Update: CRU working with ESBN and Eirgrid on the contractual framework. Next step is a recommendation report from ESBN and EirGrid to CRU. Parties to meet week beginning 25 April 2022. CRU will review recommendations and determine next steps.
Action 125Facilitate the connection of hybrid technologies that minimise grid reinforcement
Q1 2022 measure: Scoping of Work Package for trading of Maximum Export Capacity in
Ireland
Responsible body: EirGrid
Status: Delayed
Update: Being developed in parallel with CRU Decision.
Action 127Carry out power system modelling required to meet renewable energy
and electricity emissions targets and analysis to underpin a Net Zero
Roadmap
Q4 2021 measure: Publish final ‘Shaping our Electricity Future’
Responsible body: EirGrid
Status: Complete
Update: The ‘Shaping our Electricity Future’ was published by Eirgrid in November 2021.

Land Use, Land Use Change, Forestry, and the Marine

Action 364Project Woodland to develop a shared national approach for trees, woods, and forest
Q4 2021 measure: Launch of new not for profit focussed on attracting corporate funds to
plant new native woodlands
Responsible body: Coillte
Status: Complete
Update: New not for profit company registered with Companies Registration Office in November 2021 and first board meeting held in December 2021. Company is now trading and is fully funded for first 24 months.
Action 364Project Woodland to develop a shared national approach for trees, woods, and forest
Q1 2022 measure: Carry out a public consultation in preparation of the Forest Strategy
and the new Forestry Programme (post-2022)
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Delayed
Update: DAFM have scheduled a range of public consultation initiatives for Q1 and Q2 2022. These initiatives include a deliberative dialogue, youth forum and public consultation. A Public attitudes survey was completed in December 2021 of a thousand people and the results of this survey were published in Q1 2022. In addition, DAFM has carried a wide range of bilateral consultation on the next forest strategy and forestry programme throughout Q4 2021 and Q1 2022. A public consultation “Working towards Irelands Shared Vision for Forestry and a New Forest Strategy” was published by DAFM on 16th March 2022 for a period of 6 weeks, closing on 27 April 2022. Survey will complete in Q2 2022.
Action 364Project Woodland to develop a shared national approach for trees, woods, and forest
Q1 2022 measure: Carry out a SEA in preparation of the Forest Strategy and the Forestry
Programme (post- 2022)
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Delayed
Update: DAFM have awarded a contract for the preparation of an SEA and AA for the next forestry programme and forest strategy. Work in preparing these processes is currently in progress. The SEA and AA is dependent on the progress made on drafting the next Forest Strategy and programme, including the feedback received from public and stakeholder consultation. Due to the number of parallel processes taking place it is now expected that the SEA, AA and Forest Strategy will not be concluded until Q4 2022.
Action 365Prepare the next Forestry Programme post 2014-2020 for publication in 2023
Q4 2021 measure: Establish a working group to contribute to the formation of the next
forestry programme(post 2020) and for publication in 2023. Programme to be developed in
line with the new forest strategy
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Complete
Update: DAFM have established an internal working group which is examining all schemes and measures and will consult with stakeholders in Q1 2022. The Forestry programme 2023-2027 will be developed in parallel with the new Forestry Strategy which will be finalised in 2022. Extensive public consultation on the new Forestry Strategy is taking place which will help shape the next Forestry Programme.
Action 366Implement Forestry Programme 2014-2022 (includes 2-year extension)
Q4 2021 measure: Implement measures to establish afforestation climate ambition.
Measures will be targeted at sequestration, increasing carbon stocks and stores
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Complete
Update: DAFM issued afforestation licences for 4,246 hectares which resulted in the planting of 2,016 ha in 2021. This results in a conversion rate of just 64% i.e., some applicants who received a licence did not proceed and carryout planting. DAFM have published a Forestry Licensing Plan for 2022 which will see a focus in increasing afforestation licences in 2022. Increased afforestation is required to meet Climate Action plan targets of 8000 ha per year. All afforestation measures continue to sequester carbon and increase carbon stocks and stores. The national forest estate carbon stock is 312 million tonnes.
Action 366Implement Forestry Programme 2014-2022 (includes 2-year extension)
Q4 2021 measure: Construct 125 km / new forest roads per year to mobilise biomass
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Complete
Update: Forest road licences continue to be issued throughout 2021 facilitating the mobilisation of forest biomass. Forest road licences were issued for 263.8 kilometres of road in 2021. DAFM provided grant aid under the Forest Road Scheme for the construction of 72.5 kilometres of road in 2021.
Action 366Implement Forestry Programme 2014-2022 (includes 2-year extension)
Q4 2021 measure: Increase participation of existing schemes and measures
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Delayed
Update: DAFM continue to the monitor participation across all schemes and publish a weekly detailed dashboard of licences issued and published information on scheme participation. While the applications for schemes such as Roads, Creation of Woodlands on Public Lands and the Reconstitution Scheme have increased, afforestation applications have reduced. DAFM through Project Woodland and the design of the next Forestry Programme will put in place measures with the purpose of increasing scheme participation. Scheme Total Applications in Total Applications in 2020 2021 Afforestation 528 (4341ha) 502 (4245ha) Roads 346 (130km) 671 (264km) Reconstitution for ash dieback 210 282 Creation of Woodlands on Public 7 15 Land WEF 65ha 55ha Details at: gov.ie - Forestry Division Monthly Reports
SchemeTotal Applications in 2020Total Applications in 2021
Afforestation528 (4341ha)502 (4245ha)
Roads346 (130km)671 (264km)
Reconstitution for ash dieback210282
Creation of Woodlands on Public Land715
WEF65ha55ha
Action 367Increase the level of afforestation to meet targets
Q4 2021 measure: Commence planting of new forests
Responsible body: Coillte
Status: Complete
Update: Planting of first 200 hectares began in December 2021 and will continue until late April 2022 and then pause until the planting season recommences in December 2022. It is expected that the full 200 hectares will be planted by end of Q1 2023. Initial planting has been successfully completed.
Action 367Increase the level of afforestation to meet targets
Q4 2021 measure: Start the planting of 1,500ha of native woodland on Bord na Mona cut-
over bogs as part of an integrated land use plan which includes rewetting and habitat
restoration
Responsible body: Coillte
Status: Delayed
Update: Application for afforestation consent submitted in Q2 2021 but no progress until November 2021. Planting window for 2021/2022 is now missed. Consent evaluation is currently ongoing and, if it is successfully completed by end of Q2 2022, planting will be possible from November 2022 onwards.
Action 369Promote the role of afforestation as a climate solution
Q1 2022 measure: Promote Afforestation and Forestry as a climate change solution
Responsible body: Teagasc
Status: Complete
Update: Afforestation is included in the green cert as an option for all students. Up to the end of Q1 2022, Forestry Liaison Officer will continue with the integration of forestry in ongoing agricultural education courses and other course inputs, 20 Classes were completed by the end of Q1 with 6 Class groups involving ~ 120 Teagasc students. Classes will also be provided to students from Waterford Institute of Technology, Carlow Institute of Technology and the new Agricultural Science course at the National University of Ireland, Galway (55-60 students in total).
Action 370Develop tools for communicating productivity and climate benefits of forests
Q4 2021 measure: Promote the use of DAFM forest management tools and incorporate
use into relevant advisory Services (e.g. Climadapt and StandModel)
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Complete
Update: DAFM provides a range of forest management tools which assist forest owners assessing the productivity of their forests. A decision felling tool provides information on the volumes of timber expected based on harvesting in different years. This tool also provides indicative financial returns associated with different decisions. A tool to estimate the carbon storage and sequestration capacity of different forest types was published by Teagasc in 2021 and funded by DAFM. This tool which is available online provides indicative carbon sequestration rates across a range of forest species and soil types. The Departments existing Climadapt model has recently being updated and reviewed. The updated tool will be publicly available on the DAFM website in Q2-2022.
Action 372Minimise the impact of deforestation on GHG emissions, while supporting wider government polices
Q1 2022 measure: Completion of project plan for Derryclare pilot site in Co. Galway
Responsible body: Coillte
Status: Complete
Update: The project plan is complete and next steps will require further engagement with DAFM. Proposed deforestation will require licensing and may include planning permission in certain circumstances. Coillte and DAFM will engage in Q2 2022 to explore next steps based on project plan completed.
Action 372Minimise the impact of deforestation on GHG emissions, while supporting wider government polices
Q1 2022 measure: Incorporate measures aimed at tackling deforestation into other DAFM
schemes
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Complete
Update: DAFM continue to investigate alleged instances of illegal felling and carry out post felling assessments to determine if areas felled have been replanted. These assessments are ongoing and will continue in 2022.
Action 373Develop and support forests and forest owners in the sustainable
management of woodland and the importance of climate mitigation and
adaptation
Q4 2021 measure: Review existing knowledge transfer groups and determine impact on
climate change mitigation and adaptation
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Complete
Update: Knowledge transfer groups in 2022 will see increased awareness of the importance of climate change mitigation and adaptation. The COFORD Sustainable Development and Conservation of Forest Genetic Resources 2020-2030 strategy published in December 2020 has a series of recommendations which will help shape the content of next Knowledge Transfer Group scheme. DAFM will ensure that all Knowledge Transfer Groups in 2022 will include content on the importance of climate change mitigation and adaptation.
Action 373Develop and support forests and forest owners in the sustainable
management of woodland and the importance of climate mitigation and
adaptation
Q4 2021 measure: Develop management tools with an emphasis on climate mitigation and
adaptation
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Complete
Update: The Climadapt model and a stand model have now been completed. The new models will be publicly available on the DAFM website in Q2 2022. These models build on existing models and provide information on the impact on climate change on species selection.
Action 373Develop and support forests and forest owners in the sustainable
management of woodland and the importance of climate mitigation and
adaptation
Q4 2021 measure: Assess the training needs of foresters and review the DAFM scheme
for the continuous professional development of registered foresters
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Delayed
Update: DAFM have a prepared a tender to carry out a training needs analysis in Q4 2021. DAFM expect to award a contract in Q2 2022 which will assess training gaps across the sector, including registered foresters. The training and needs analysis request for tender has been prepared with input from Project Woodland.
Action 373Develop and support forests and forest owners in the sustainable
management of woodland and the importance of climate mitigation and
adaptation
Q4 2021 measure: Investigate the engagement of forest owners in sustainable forest
management e.g., DAFM funded FOROWN project
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Complete
Update: The objective of the FOROWN study was to understand the factors that influence forest owners’ engagement in the management of their forests specifically focusing on the role of knowledge transfer events and the social networks of owners. The study adopted a two-pronged approach; an owner focused approach as well as a wider forest sector approach (i.e. a ‘Systemic Innovation’ approach) to understand the broad range of factors potentially influencing the engagement of owners particularly in wood mobilisation. The final report completed in 2020. Taking into account the results of the above study and other initiatives the Department in conjunction with Teagasc have arranged a number of events which engage forest owners in acquiring new knowledge and skills in forest management. These initiatives include events that took place in 2021 covering; • Forest management • Forest and climate change • Timber and marketing • Launch of Forest Carbon tool
Action 375Assess the impact of forest carbon stocks, sinks, and stores within the
Land Use, Land-use Change and Forestry sector and model impacts of
different forest management and afforestation scenarios
Q4 2021 measure: Create and develop tools to support decisions impacting on carbon
stocks and sinks
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Complete
Update: DAFM in conjunction with Teagasc and FERS Limited have developed an online Forest Carbon Tool to provide landowners with indicative data for potential carbon sequestration associated with new forest enterprises which include current options under the DAFM Forestry Programme.
Action 377Support the mobilisation of timber for use in the processing and biomass sector
Q1 2022 measure: Undertake a study on forest certification of timber in the private sector
and make recommendations to increase the uptake of certification in the private sector and
assess the impact of certification on market accessibility and future wood mobilisation
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Complete
Update: DAFM have funded a certification study which has now been completed. The study is currently being prepared for publication. The report states that in the private sector, there are 15,680 ha certified representing 5.69% of the private forest estate. Low levels of certification in the private sector will have significant impacts on market access that requires certified timber. Some of the recommendations include the establishment of a national group certification scheme, training for professional foresters and funding for the preparation of management plans.
Action 378Support the development and use of harvested wood products
Q1 2022 measure: Develop a description of needs for industry led knowledge,
development, and research facility for the timber sector in Ireland
Responsible body: EI
Status: Complete
Update: The Detailed Description of Research, Development & Innovation Needs of the Timber Sector has been completed by the consultant. It was discussed by the Timber Sector Leadership Group at its meeting in March. The description is being reviewed by members of the Leadership Group, who will revert back with changes at the next meeting (end of April).
Action 379Protect and monitor the forest estate for pest and disease in order to maintain carbon stocks and build resilience
Q1 2022 measure: Annual reporting and monitoring of forest health of the existing forest
estate
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Complete
Update: DAFM continue to monitor the health of the forest estate and carry out surveys and inspection. The 4th National Forest Inventory is currently being completed and will provide detailed information on the forest estate. The inventory will conclude data collection in 2022.
Action 379Protect and monitor the forest estate for pest and disease in order to maintain carbon stocks and build resilience
Q1 2022 measure: Review recommendations and implementation of the Council for Forest
Research and Development Sustainable Development and Conservation of Forest Genetic
Resources 2020 –2030
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Complete
Update: DAFM have reviewed the recommendations outlined in the Conservation of Forest Genetic Resources strategy 2020-2030. An interim report has been completed and presented to the COFORD Forest Genetic Resources working group.
Action 379Protect and monitor the forest estate for pest and disease in order to maintain carbon stocks and build resilience
Q1 2022 measure: Implementation of risk-based monitoring and inspection regime on
plant and timber imports/ exports
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Complete
Update: DAFM continue to engage in monitoring plant health risk at ports and engage with industry stakeholders on the importance of plant health.
Action 384Develop additional cropland measures to protect and enhance soil carbon
Q1 2022 measure: Establish a natural green cover on tillage ground within 6 weeks post-
harvest via shallow cultivation 14 days post-harvest
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Complete
Update: Completed as part of Ireland’s Nitrates Action Programme 2022-2025, finalised Q1 2022. The requirement to conduct shallow cultivation to facilitate establishment of natural green cover on tillage ground post-harvest is set down under SI No 113 of 2022.
Action 388Establish and Refine underlying soil data to measure the nutrient and soil carbon in our soils
Q1 2022 measure: Start-up of the National Agricultural Soil Carbon Observatory carbon
towers to refine grassland land management factors in association with the Signpost Farm
Programme, including the identification of sites and installation of other infrastructure for
establishing the measurement of carbon in Irish soils, quantifying carbon sequestration in
Irish soils and understanding how it is affected by changes in management practice
Responsible body: Teagasc
Status: Complete
Update: The first phase of the original National Agricultural Soil Carbon Observatory is established and data flow has commenced. The sites have been selected and agreed. Carbon towers have been established on 5 sites and the other sites will be instrumented over the next few months. Soil carbon sampling on 100 Signpost farms has been completed and the laboratory carbon analysis is underway.
Action 394Promotion of forestry activity
Q4 2021 measure: Establish agroforestry research and demonstration sites to improve
adoption of forestry and integration of animal and forestry agriculture, subject to planting
approval
Responsible body: Teagasc
Status: Delayed
Update: The agroforestry demonstration/research site at Johnstown Castle is currently being established. The ash-dieback affected stand has been felled whilst selected healthy- looking trees were retained. The site is currently being prepared for planned pasture reseeding during Q2 2022 and tree planting in Winter 2022/23.
Action 396Deliver the full Land Use, Land-use Change and Forestry flexibility
available to Ireland in the context of the 2030 greenhouse gas emissions
targets
Q4 2021 measure: Implementation of a pilot scheme on reduced management intensity to
serve as “proof of concept” as a viable mitigation option
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Complete
Update: EIP Reduced Managed Intensity Pilot Project: A call for a new locally-led European Innovation Partnership (EIP) project on reduced management of farmed peatlands was announced in August 2020. This project will provide lessons learned to scale up the actions and measures into a larger agri-environment programme for the next CAP. The call, using a bottom-up process, asks groups to put forward projects outlining concrete actions on peatlands under agricultural management that will: • Protect the carbon stock and restore sequestration associated with drained peatlands under agricultural management. • Maximise other ecosystem service co-benefits such as protection of biodiversity, water quality and water regulation. • Build resilience to the impacts of climate change at catchment/landscape level. The two successful groups, Nature Based Agri Solutions Limited and Green Restoration Ireland, have commenced work in 2021 and will receive over €2 million to complete their projects. Both projects are funded until Q1 2023.
Action 398Explore and identify opportunities to increase afforestation
Q4 2021 measure: Assessment of Afforestation Licence Application by DAFM
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Complete
Update: DAFM are currently piloting a pre-application discussion initiative where registered foresters can discuss any aspect of a proposed application for afforestation with Department inspectors prior to submission. The pilot study is in response to applicants and foresters request to seek further clarification on whether applications will be eligible for approval and/or identify if additional information is required. The purpose of this process is to identify early any issues that need to be addressed. The pilot is currently underway and will be reviewed in 2022.
Action 402Coordinate the actions in the Programme for Government regarding peatlands to maximise the benefits for biodiversityCoordinate the actions in the Programme for Government regarding
peatlands to maximise the benefits for biodiversity
Q1 2022 measure: The Peatlands Strategy Implementation Group will mreport on progress
in the implementation of actions regarding peatlands additional to those set out in the
National Peatlands Strategy 2015
Responsible body: DHLGH
Status: Delayed
Update: A report which sets out progress on the main actions for peatlands which maximise benefits for biodiversity will be published by end Q2 2022 as part of the National Peatlands Strategy annual progress report.
Action 405Conduct research and engage on how to support climate just transition in agricultureConduct research and engage on how to support climate just transition
in agriculture
Q1 2022 measure: Establish a NESC working group including representatives from the
Council and other experts, Departments and agencies including DAFM, Teagasc and Bord
Bia
Responsible body: NESC
Status: Complete
Update: Working Group established and held first meeting in March 2022.
Action 408Monitor phenological change including in phenological gardens
Q4 2021 measure: Continuation of long-term data collection at 6 international phenological gardens across Ireland and submission of these data to Europe
Responsible body: NPWS/DHLGH
Status: Complete
Update: The Central Statistics Office gather information from the phenological gardens in March for the previous year. These gardens are part of a European network.
Action 408Monitor phenological change including in phenological gardens
Q4 2021 measure: Rescue of historical phenological data
Responsible body: NPWS/DHLGH
Status: Complete
Update: Historical data has been integrated into one dataset accompanied by a statistical release. Please see: https://www.cso.ie/en/releasesandpublications/er/ppy/plantphenology2020/ This work has been undertaken by the CSO, University College Cork and the Botanic Gardens.
Action 408Monitor phenological change including in phenological gardens
Q4 2021 measure: Consolidation of a phenological network for Ireland including the
integration of new technology for monitoring
Responsible body: NPWS/DHLGH
Status: Complete
Update: The University College Cork project (PHENOCLIMATE) has submitted their final report to the EPA. The University College Dublin project (PHENOGRASS) has a no-cost extension until end of March due to Covid 19 delays. The two projects have jointly consolidated the phenological network by bringing stakeholders together at workshops and highlighting future priority areas for the development of this network in a joint white paper and in a response to the EPA’s research consultation 2022 (e.g. remote-sensing of phenology with phenocams, acoustic recorders and satellite imagery).
Action 409Educate school children through existing (Heritage Schools
Programme, An Taisce Green Schools, Clean Coasts) and additional
educational programmes to raise awareness of the links between
biodiversity and climate change
Q4 2021 measure: Visits to primary school children covering the links between Climate
Change and Biodiversity through the Heritage in Schools programme
Responsible body: Heritage Council
Status: Complete
Update: In 2021, the Heritage Council delivered an estimated 202 visits to approximately 5250 children which covered climate change. The overall total of Heritage In Schools visits delivered in 2021 is 1,803 (built, natural, cultural). • In-person visits to schools: 13 September - 21 December (inclusive) – 832 visits • Virtual visits: 1 January to 21 December – 971 visits
Action 412Increase Ireland’s knowledge base in terms of marine climate change
impacts and blue carbon potential to inform the development of national
mitigation actions
Q4 2021 measure: Launch and award research proposals from the Marine Institute’s Blue
Carbon Call 2021
Responsible body: Marine Institute
Status: Complete
Update: Two major awards were approved in December 2021 to support research on Blue Carbon and marine carbon sequestration. The projects funded, Blue Carbon and Quest, are led by University College Dublin can focus on carbon uptake and storage in sea grass meadows & saltmarshes (Blue C), and in sands & sediments (Quest). Total of €2.6 million awarded over 5 years, with €2.2 million funding provided by the Marine Institute and €0.4 million from the Environmental Protection Agency. The Marine Institute has also made a formal proposal for a new EU Knowledge Hub on Blue Carbon as a joint action under the Joint Programming Initiative on Healthy and Productive Seas and Oceans (JPI Oceans). This is still in scoping phase.
Action 413Increase ocean knowledge and support research and innovation, investing in research and innovation
Q4 2021 measure: Provide support for innovative climate mitigation solutions through
competitive calls for post-graduate, post-doctoral and industry-led research
Responsible body: Marine Institute
Status: Complete
Update: Two Post-Doctoral Fellowships awarded in December 2021 to National University of Ireland Galway, with total funding of €662,000 over four years. These fellowships will undertake research in 1) Nature-based Solutions to achieve climate “resilience” in coastal communities and 2) Develop a reliable, sustainable marine energy turbine through the application of recycled carbon fibre material. Two Cullen PhD Scholarships were awarded in October 2021 with funding of €220,000. Investigations will be carried out on 1) the trends in sea level rise in Ireland, and 2) the dynamics & drivers of the carbonate system in Irish coastal and shelf waters.
Action 413Increase ocean knowledge and support research and innovation, investing in research and innovation
Q4 2021 measure: Provide support through the National Contact Point network to
researchers, SMEs, and Industry to successfully access funding through the Horizon
Europe Framework Programme, and Cluster 6 (Food, Bioeconomy, Natural Resources,
Agriculture and Environment) in particular
Responsible body: Marine Institute
Status: Complete
Update: Irish companies and researchers were very successful in the first calls of Horizon Europe. Overall, €24.1m was drawn down under the 2021 calls for Cluster 6, representing 2.53% of the overall available budget. These projects cover all thematic areas of Cluster 6, including Food, Bioeconomy, Natural Resources, Agriculture, and the Environment. For marine projects only, there are 8 new projects, with a total allocated budget of €5.37m. Researchers were most successful in the Biodiversity and Communities destinations. No Irish marine research is currently funded under the Climate, Farm-2-Fork or Governance destinations in Cluster 6.
Action 420Develop a Demonstration Natural Capital Accounts model for the seafood sector
Q4 2021 measure: Preparation of the demonstration Natural Capital Account
Responsible body: BIM
Status: Delayed
Update: The use case assessment, accounts and methods and synthesis reports are complete. The draft communications report has been received and is being reviewed by BIM with the view that the full project outputs will be published in Q2 2022.
Action 421Identify areas of climate action appropriate to the Seafood Development Programme 2021-27
Q1 2022 measure: Consider climate action investment needs within Seafood Development
Programme
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Complete
Update: Climate action investment needs have been considered and identified under each of the four Priorities of the draft Seafood Development Programme 2021- 2027.
Action 421Identify areas of climate action appropriate to the Seafood Development Programme 2021-28
Q1 2022 measure: Finalise SEA and AA Assessment Reports
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Delayed
Update: The original procurement process for the SEA/AA did not identify a contractor. Following the second procurement attempt, a bidder was selected with contracts expected to be signed by late February. It is anticipated that the draft SEA report will be completed in Q2 2022.
Action 421Identify areas of climate action appropriate to the Seafood Development Programme 2021-29
Q1 2022 measure: Engage in a Public Consultation process
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Delayed
Update: Due to the delay in the SEA/AA procurement process it is anticipated that public consultation will now take place in Q3 with the submission of the Seafood Development Programme 2021-27 to the Commission soon thereafter.
Action 422Complete the National Strategic Plan for Sustainable Aquaculture, including climate measures
Q1 2022 measure: Complete SEA, AA and Draft Plan following public consultation
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Delayed
Update: Draft plan was submitted in Q3 2021. SEA and AA have been drafted. It is anticipated that the public consultation and finalisation of the plan will take place in Q3 2022.
Action 422Complete the National Strategic Plan for Sustainable Aquaculture, including climate measures
Q1 2022 measure: Publish SEA, AA and final NSPA and submit to the EU
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Delayed
Update: Development of the SEA, AA and final NSPA have been delayed and final publication will take place in Q3 2022.
Action 423Publish the Seafood Carbon Footprint Study, providing a detailed analysis of the carbon footprint of the catching and aquaculture sectors
Q4 2021 measure: Define project scope and methods, carry out literature review, identify
and collate relevant data including case study and predictive model prototype
Responsible body: BIM
Status: Complete
Update: The Seafood Carbon Footprint Study was initiated in 2021 through the establishment of a project steering group, coupled with the successful procurement of the external resources required to achieve project goals. The project relies on significant cooperation from industry, and to this end, Carbon data has been acquired from industry. This data has been analysed, via Life Cycle Assessments (LCA) to identify supply chain ‘Carbon hotspots’.
Action 424Complete a pilot study on improving the carbon efficiency of fishing gear design
Q4 2021 measure: Test the reduction in drag by novel design of Nephrops fishing gear
using load cells
Responsible body: BIM
Status: Complete
Update: Preliminary field testing of a novel system for testing the drag of fishing gear was completed in November 2021. The new system was successfully deployed and obtained detailed time series data on gear drag. Preliminary results suggest that the new Nephrops trawl is more energy efficient compared with the standard trawl. A full report was published on 4 April 2022.
Action 425Maintain participation rate of 96% in the Clean Oceans Initiative and
bring the fishery harbour centres in line with the Port Reception
Facilities Directive
Q4 2021 measure: Work with 6 fishery harbour centres to update and review their facility
plans in line with the Port Reception Facilities Directive and the Extended Producer
Responsibility Directive
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Complete
Update: Six waste management plans for the fishery harbour centres have been developed in consultation with the harbour masters and Department of Transport. The plans contain an assessment of needs along with the type and capacity of the facilities at each of the ports. The types of waste received and the procedures for reception and collection are also laid out. The system for charging and the notification requirements are detailed and the plan documents procedures for ongoing consultation with port users.
Action 425Maintain participation rate of 96% in the Clean Oceans Initiative and
bring the fishery harbour centres in line with the Port Reception
Facilities Directive
Q1 2022 measure: Continue to support vessel owners, promote and monitor participation
in the initiative
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Complete
Update: Vessel owners in the 12 participating ports continue to be supported with waste collection materials and dedicated skips for the disposal of marine litter. Quarterly reports on participation and marine litter statistics along with information on other outputs as part of the Clean Oceans Initiative are provided to DAFM and the marine litter and vessel participation data is shared on the BIM website.
Action 425Maintain participation rate of 96% in the Clean Oceans Initiative and
bring the fishery harbour centres in line with the Port Reception
Facilities Directive
Q1 2022 measure: Targeted communications and promotional campaign developed for the
Clean Oceans Initiative
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Complete
Update: Design and layout for the Clean Oceans initiative reports has been completed along with a new launch page for the Clean Oceans page on the BIM website. This will harmonise with the Clean Oceans logo and help develop brand recognition for the initiative.
Action 426Develop a study to test different seaweeds cultivation techniques for eventual inclusion in cattle feed to reduce methane production
Q4 2021 measure: Deployment to sea of gametophytes for on-growth, with a view to
examining different settlement media and marine survival in traditional culture systems
Responsible body: DAFM
Status: Complete
Update: This project investigated the methodology for the cultivation of A. armata in Ireland. The final report on this project was completed in December 2021 and is available from BIM. The findings show that Asparagopsis armata plants attached to long lines similar to those used in mussel farming can achieve growth when deployed in the nearshore. An important conclusion that can be drawn from the monitoring of the wild population of the species is that farming A. armata should not depend on wild harvesting. The development of a hatchery is fundamental to achieve a consistent production. It was also observed that cultivation in the sea can only be successful in sites with specific characteristics in term of type of seabed and exposure conditions.

Buildings

Action 182Carry out research to inform the development of options, policies, and measures to decarbonise the heating and cooling sectors to 2050
Q4 2021 measure: Complete the National Heat Study
Responsible body: SEAI
Status: Complete
Update: The SEAI ‘National Heat Study’ Report was published.
Action 186Support the delivery of district heating projects under the Climate Action Fund
Q4 2021 measure: Commence the Dublin District Heating System project, supported by
the Climate Action Fund, which will provide low carbon heat to businesses and homes in
Dublin city
Responsible body: Dublin City Council
Status: Delayed
Update: Business case expected to be submitted in Q2 2022. DECC, the NDFA, and Codema will shortly meet with DECC in advance of submitting the preliminary business case and associated model to DECC.
Action 187Establish a system of governance for the development of district heating policy
Q4 2021 measure: Establish a District Heating Steering Group to co-ordinate the
development of district heating policy
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Complete
Update: Arrangements for establishing the District Heating Steering Group continued in Q4 2021. The Steering Group has met three times in 2022 and Working Groups to address barriers to district heating in detail have been established.
Action 190Ensure national, regional, and local planning frameworks encourage
and facilitate the development of district heating where appropriate to
facilitating compact urban development
Q4 2021 measure: Provide that LAs consider policies where appropriate to enable the
development of district heating systems, in the context of LA Climate Action Plan as part of
the City/County Development Plan process, in tandem with the regulatory framework being
established
Responsible body: DHLGH
Status: Delayed
Update: A draft of the Development Plan Guidelines was published in August 2021 and the public consultation period ended on 8 October 2021. The Department is in the process of reviewing all public submissions received and finalising the draft, including updates to reflect recent changes to national policy. This review will inform the final version of the Guidelines which will be sent to the Minister and published in Q2 2022.
Action 192Assess the viability of district heating systems within higher density urban/periurban developments through a demonstration project
Q1 2022 measure: Complete Feasibility assessment for small scale efficient district
heating system
Responsible body: LDA
Status: Delayed
Update: High level Cost Benefit Analysis of District Heating vs distributed systems have been carried out on 3 Land Development Agency schemes in urban/periurban settings. Detailed assessment of one of these schemes (most likely to be the pilot scheme) is a part of a tender evaluation. Value Engineering exercise as part of the tender evaluation process is ongoing and due for completion Q2 2022.
Action 193Develop a policy and regulatory framework for geothermal energy to
support its use as a secure, environmentally sustainable, and cost-
effective source of renewable energy
Q4 2021 measure: Support policy development through targeted research into Ireland’s
geothermal energy potential for both heating and cooling
Responsible body: GSI
Status: Complete
Update: Groundwater & Geothermal Unit has published a new suite of deep temperature maps for onshore Ireland.
Action 193Develop a policy and regulatory framework for geothermal energy to
support its use as a secure, environmentally sustainable, and cost-
effective source of renewable energy
Q4 2021 measure: Publish a draft policy statement on geothermal energy exploration for
public consultation
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Complete
Update: Draft policy statement published on 28 December 2021.
Action 194Undertake regulatory review of cost optimal performance requirements for Part L (Conservation of Fuel and Energy) of the Building Regulations
Q1 2022 measure: Support a culture of competence and compliance with the Building
Regulations by placing the Construction Industry Register Ireland (CIRI) on a statutory
footing
Responsible body: DHLGH
Status: Delayed
Update: Construction Industry Register Ireland Bill has passed report stage in Dáil and is scheduled for Seanad Committee stage in April 2022 and enactment shortly thereafter.
Action 195Support the current review by the European Commission of the
Construction Products Regulation and proposed implementation of
Basic Works Requirements 7+ for sustainability of construction
products
Q4 2021 measure: Monitor any revision by the European Commission to the Construction
Products Regulation which will address environmental aspects of construction products
Responsible body: DHLGH
Status: Complete
Update: A legislative proposal for a revised Construction Products Regulation was adopted by the EU Commission on 30 March 2022 for consideration by EU Council and Parliament.
Action 195Support the current review by the European Commission of the
Construction Products Regulation and proposed implementation of
Basic Works Requirements 7+ for sustainability of construction
products
Q4 2021 measure: Support the European Commission in correction, completion and
renewed adoption of technical specifications adopted under the Construction Products
Regulation
Responsible body: DHLGH
Status: Complete
Update: The process started in Q4 2021 by reviewing the Acquis of the first two priorities identified. In Q2 2022, review of the next two priorities will commence. A horizontal subgroup on ‘Environmental sustainability of construction products’ will also start in Q2 2022.
Action 197Work with industry stakeholders to increase the use of low carbon materials, taking into account international best practice
Q1 2022 measure: Develop a roadmap to promote greater use of lower-carbon building
material in construction
Responsible body: OPW
Status: Delayed
Update: A draft report/roadmap is advancing. Consultation with key stakeholders is ongoing. Feedback is currently being incorporated along with editing and graphics. The expected delivery date is Q3 2022 subject to further feedback from stakeholders.
Action 199Support the development of a tool for early design stage comparative analysis of embodied carbon in typical Irish construction typologies
Q4 2021 measure: Liaise with stakeholders & agree launch and presentation strategy
Responsible body: LDA
Status: Complete
Update: Launched in November 2021, training ongoing. Please see: https://www.oneclicklca.com/
Action 204Assess and monitor climate impacts on heritage sites and identify threatened heritage sites
Q1 2022 measure: Undertake monitoring of climate change and its impacts at selected
heritage properties
Responsible body: DHLGH
Status: Delayed
Update: Engagement ongoing to select suitable sites for weather station installation. DHLGH are currently tendering for external assistance with a view to optimising site selection.
Action 204Assess and monitor climate impacts on heritage sites and identify threatened heritage sites
Q1 2022 measure: Carry out a condition assessment of a sample of heritage
sites/properties in public ownership to establish a baseline for heritage resources from
which change can be measured
Responsible body: DHLGH
Status: Complete
Update: A number of suitable sites have received funding under the Community Monuments Fund for condition assessments and digital imaging.
Action 204Assess and monitor climate impacts on heritage sites and identify threatened heritage sites
Q1 2022 measure: Monitor ongoing maintenance and repair works undertaken and
emergency response
Responsible body: DHLGH
Status: Delayed
Update: Engaging with OPW and Local Authorities on relevant instances of impacts. DHLGH are currently tendering for external assistance to assist with provision of standardised response material. Climate Vulnerability Assessments on various sites being funded under the Community Monuments Fund 2022, and similar work ongoing at the World Heritage Property of Sceilg Mhichíl.
Action 205Cooperate actively and share knowledge with international partners and climateproof planning procedures for heritage properties
Q4 2021 measure: Establish working group(s) of stakeholders to pool information, promote
research and drive the implementation of the planned agree terms of reference
Responsible body: DHLGH
Status: Complete
Update: All relevant stakeholders on the Climate Change Sectoral Adaptation Plan Implementation Group have indicated their representation on relevant Working Groups, and Terms of Reference have been finalised. Programme for 2022 Working Groups has been established.
Action 205Cooperate actively and share knowledge with international partners and climate proof planning procedures for heritage properties
Q1 2022 measure: Develop Memoranda of Understanding with Northern Ireland and
Welsh governments
Responsible body: DHLGH
Status: Delayed
Update: Memorandum of Understanding with Northern Ireland signed, please see: https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/7f6f4-ministers-sign-north-south-memorandum-of- understanding-on-climate-action-and-cultural-heritage/ Memorandum of Understanding with Wales is being progressed.
Action 207Integrate climate-change adaptation into all heritage-management plans and policies as these are updated
Q4 2021 measure: Introduce climate-change adaptation into sectoral policy and
conservation planning at all levels
Responsible body: DHLGH
Status: Complete
Update: • Heritage Ireland 2030 (published in February 2022) has embraced climate- relevant measures and policies. • National Policy for Architecture to be launched later this year has embraced climate change considerations. • Vernacular Strategy launched in December 2021 includes actions on climate change mitigation. • Relevant heritage grant schemes extend support for climate adaptation and resilience building measures.

National Retrofit Plan

Action 208Implement a national awareness and demand generation campaign for residential retrofit
Q4 2021 measure: Promotional campaign will operate throughout Q4 2021
Responsible body: SEAI
Status: Complete
Update: The SEAI home energy upgrade campaign ran throughout Q4 2021.
Action 208Implement a national awareness and demand generation campaign for residential retrofit
Q4 2021 measure: Update the SEAI website to allow homeowners to more easily
determine the right grant scheme for their circumstances and implement promotional
campaign
Responsible body: SEAI
Status: Complete
Update: Clear routing function built into website and replicated in call centre call routing.
Action 209Provide a personalised roadmap for homeowners on how to upgrade their home to a BER B2 in the new BER advisory report
Q4 2021 measure: As per headline action
Responsible body: SEAI
Status: Complete
Update: BER Advisory Report updated and will be interactively updated over time as new costs and technologies emerge.
Action 210Develop a network of retrofit One-Stop-Shops to simplify the customer journey and enhance consumer confidence
Q1 2022 measure: Introduce a system of registration for retrofit One-Stop Shops
Responsible body: SEAI
Status: Complete
Update: One Stop Shop registration is open. The service was launched with the national home energy upgrade scheme on 8 February 2022.
Action 211Launch a new SEAI National Retrofit Scheme (One Stop Shop Service)
to drive the delivery of B2 retrofits with heat pumps and facilitate year-
round working
Q1 2022 measure: As per headline action
Responsible body: SEAI
Status: Complete
Update: The new National Home Energy Upgrade Scheme was approved by Government and launched on 8 February. Further information is available at: https://www.seai.ie/grants/home-energy- grants/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIvcTXgpTD9wIV8YBQBh0- XQY4EAAYASAAEgLbUfD BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds _
Action 211Launch a new SEAI National Retrofit Scheme (One Stop Shop Service)
to drive the delivery of B2 retrofits with heat pumps and facilitate year-
round working
Q1 2022 measure: Streamline SEAI processes and administration to make the grant
process easier
Responsible body: SEAI
Status: Complete
Update: New scheme launched along with online streamlined grant administration process.
Action 212Utilise Sustainable Energy Communities to drive Community Activation
Q4 2021 measure: Launch a call for projects under the Communities Energy Grant
Scheme
Responsible body: SEAI
Status: Complete
Update: A call for projects under the Community Energy Grants Scheme was approved by the Minister and launched by the SEAI on 21 March 2022.
Action 213Support those least able to afford to retrofit
Q1 2022 measure: Finalise recommendations on the implementation of changes to ensure
that the Warmer Homes Scheme better targets those most in need
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Complete
Update: Proposals approved by Government and changes announced as part of the package of retrofit scheme changes. A budget allocation of €109 million has been provided for the Warmer Homes Scheme this year. This will support an increase in the number of free home upgrades, from an average of 177 per month in 2021 to 400 per month this year, helping to reduce waiting times. The scheme will also target the worst performing properties, by prioritising homes that were built and occupied before 1993 and have a pre-works BER of E, F or G. Existing applications will not be affected by this change. For the first time, applications will also be accepted from qualifying homeowners who previously received supports under the scheme, but who could still benefit from even deeper measures. The scheme eligibility criteria will also be extended to include those in receipt of the Disability Allowance / Blind Pension for over 6 months and have a child under 7 years.
Action 213Support those least able to afford to retrofit
Q1 2022 measure: Launch a pilot to inform the appropriate approach to increasing the
number of B2 upgrades and heat pump installed under the Warmer Homes Scheme
Responsible body: SEAI
Status: Complete
Update: In order to move the Warmer Homes Scheme away from the installation of fossil fuel boilers, the National Retrofit Plan included a commitment to carry out a pilot to upgrade homes under the scheme to a B2 standard and install heat pumps. This pilot commenced on schedule in Q1 2022 and will gather evidence to inform the appropriate process and approach to increase the number of B2 upgrades and heat pumps installations delivered under this scheme.
Action 213Support those least able to afford to retrofit
Q1 2022 measure: Complete a review of the implementation of the Strategy to Combat
Energy Poverty to inform next steps in relation to the development of a new strategy
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Delayed
Update: A review of the implementation of the Strategy to Combat Energy Poverty will be completed in the coming weeks to inform future policy in this area.
Action 213Support those least able to afford to retrofit
Q1 2022 measure: Warmth and Wellbeing research study completed
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Delayed
Update: Report on research study is being finalised by the London School of Tropical Medicine, with a view to finalisation in Q2 2022.
Action 215Launch a new Energy Efficiency Obligation Scheme
Q1 2022 measure: As per headline action
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Delayed
Update: The new Energy Efficiency Obligation Scheme regulations are nearing finalisation. The SEAI is also developing a new Energy Efficiency Obligation Scheme Guidelines document.
Action 217Carry out research to further understand the needs of homeowners in relation to financing retrofit
Q1 2022 measure: As per headline action
Responsible body: SEAI
Status: Delayed
Update: The project is in process with choice modelling, survey and focus groups. The willingness to pay and Cost-Benefit Analysis work is underway and expected to complete in Q2 2022.
Action 219Pursue funding through EU initiatives as appropriate
Q4 2021 measure: As per headline action
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Complete
Update: National Recovery and Resilience funding has been secured to partly cover the proposed Loan Guarantee Scheme. DECC is actively engaging with the Regional Assemblies in relation to funding under the European Regional Development Fund programme.
Action 221Publish a forecast of the skills required to deliver on our retrofit target
as part of the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs report on “Skills for
Zero Carbon- The Demand for Renewable Energy, Residential Retrofit
and Electric Vehicle Deployment Skills
Q4 2021 measure: As per headline action
Responsible body: DETE
Status: Complete
Update: Following approval by the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs and National Skills Council in late Q3, Skills for Zero Carbon- The Demand for Renewable Energy, Residential Retrofit and Electric Vehicle Deployment Skills was published and officially launched on 25 November 2021 by Minister for Employment Damien English TD, Minister for Circular Economy Ossian Smyth. The report is now informing the response of stakeholders across Government, industry and the education and training system to develop the skills needed to deliver on climate action across renewable energy development, residential energy efficiency and sustainable transport.
Action 222Deliver the necessary increase in upskilling, reskilling and apprenticeship supports for residential retrofitting
Q1 2022 measure: Ensure retrofitting is on the priority skills needs list for Springboard+
and Human Capital Initiative programmes
Responsible body: DFHERIS
Status: Complete
Update: The Springboard+ 2022 call for proposals was launched in December 2021. Springboard+ 2022 is due to launch in Q2 2022. Under the Springboard+ 2022 call for proposals, retrofitting is on the priority skills needs list, as this measure requires. The Human Capital initiative’s Pillar 1 and 3 will fund courses in 2022 that will offer retrofitting skills.
Action 222Deliver the necessary increase in upskilling, reskilling and apprenticeship supports for residential retrofitting
Q4 2021 measure: Roll out Nearly Zero Energy Building (NZEB) and Deep Retrofit
contractor courses nationwide (specification developed with Waterford and Wexford
Education Training Board)
Responsible body: DFHERIS
Status: Complete
Update: Courses are running as planned. Courses are demand driven and thus the number of courses/learners at present reflects the current demand from learners.
Action 224Launch a study into the Heat Loss Indicator criteria for the installation of heat pumps
Q4 2021 measure: As per headline action
Responsible body: SEAI
Status: Delayed
Update: The Heat Loss Indicator research project was postponed pending the launch of the national home energy upgrade scheme. It is on track for launch in Q2 2022.
Action 225Publish new Standards and Guidance Documents for retrofit
Q1 2022 measure: Publish new guidance for the retrofitting of traditional buildings (See
also Action 131)
Responsible body: DHLGH
Status: Delayed
Update: In preparation. Finalising the revisions required on foot of public consultation and an additional case study. Publication will be in 2022.
Action 227Establish a cross-Departmental group to oversee implementation of the National Retrofit Plan
Q1 2022 measure: As per headline action
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Delayed
Update: DECC has continued to engage bilaterally with key Departments and Agencies in relation to the implementation of the National Retrofit Plan. The new cross-Departmental group will be established in Q2.
Action 228Further develop and resource the SEAI as the National Retrofit Delivery Body
Q4 2021 measure: As per headline action
Responsible body: SEAI
Status: Complete
Update: Recruitment of resources currently advertised. This is the first phase with additional resources required next year to support continued growth and achievement of targets.
Action 229Enhance the collection and monitoring of retrofit activity data delivered with Government support
Q4 2021 measure: Consolidate the data in order to determine the overall current level of
Government supported retrofit
Responsible body: SEAI
Status: Delayed
Update: Enhanced reporting arrangements for Government supported retrofit will be in place by end Q2 2022.
Action 230Enhance the capacity of local authorities to deliver their retrofit programme according to budgets allocated
Q4 2021 measure: As per headline action
Responsible body: DHLGH
Status: Complete
Update: The 2021 Energy Efficiency Retrofit Programme was a newly revised Retrofit Programme and last year was the first year of a ten year plan that is expected to grow to meet the Programme for Government retrofit commitment that calls for the ‘retrofit’ of 500,000 homes by 2030, of which, approximately 36,500 are expected to be local authority owned homes. To help deliver this programme local authorities have been provided additional resources as detailed below: Project Management Fees The Department has put in place a €5 million fund for project management fees to assist Local Authorities in the implementation of the new programme. It is recognised that an element of external expertise may be required by some Local Authorities as they embark on this programme but every effort should also be made to ensure that in-house staff are upskilled to manage the programme beyond 2021, thereby reducing the reliance in future years on external consultants. This funding will remain in place in 2022. Staffing Resources within the Housing Delivery Coordination Office Two new members of staff have been deployed within the Housing Delivery Coordination Office to drive performance and guide Local Authorities in their administration of the scheme. As part of this an individual Local Authority “tracker” is available which will quickly and easily identify the current status of the programme within a Local Authority area through a user friendly interface. This is available to the Local Authority sector, the Housing Delivery Coordination Office and DHLGH. Increased budget for 2022 Funding of €65 million was made available in 2021 towards the retrofit of Local Authority housing stock which would allow a target number of dwellings reach a BER rating of B2 or Cost Optimal BER. In 2022, €85m will be available to Local Authorities for their work in this area which is a substantial increase in Exchequer funding support.

Enterprise

Action 130Develop an online climate action portal for enterprises with relevant
tools and content to include a carbon calculator, template action plan
and signposting to relevant agency programmes
Q4 2021 measure: Undertake a communications campaign to promote the launch of the
Climate Action hub “(Climate Toolkit for Business)” for businesses
Responsible body: DETE
Status: Complete
Update: The ‘Climate Toolkit 4 Business’ was launched on 10 December 2021 by the Tánaiste and Minister Ryan. The launch was accompanied by a Press Release and a paid communications campaign on social media to increase awareness of the resource. The campaign has been supported by sharing on social media, in newsletters and in stakeholder engagement by Enterprise Ireland, IDA Ireland, Local Enterprise Offices, Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland, Environmental Protection Agency, Irish Water, SkillNet Ireland, IBEC and Chambers Ireland.
Action 130Develop an online climate action portal for enterprises with relevant
tools and content to include a carbon calculator, template action plan
and signposting to relevant agency programmes
Q1 2022 measure: Develop a communications plan for the Climate Action Hub “(Climate
Toolkit for Business)” in 2022
Responsible body: DETE
Status: Complete
Update: The ‘Climate Toolkit 4 Business’ was launched on 10 December by the Tánaiste and Minister Ryan. Since the launch, the project team have been monitoring website analytics and registrations to the Toolkit to inform the next, more targeted phase of our communications campaign. The Toolkit has received a good level of engagement so far, with thousands of unique visitors to the resource and hundreds of tailored action plans generated. DETE are developing new social media assets with plans to begin sharing in the coming weeks. DETE has also developed a calendar of Small and Medium-sized Enterprise -focussed events at which the Toolkit will be promoted.
Action 134Establish a focus group comprised of the relevant stakeholders to
develop the actions required to achieve the Climate Action Plan target
of a “10% (and up to 60%) decrease in embodied carbon in construction
materials” including low carbon cement
Q1 2022 measure: Establish Membership of Focus Group and set meeting schedule and
work programme
Responsible body: DETE
Status: Complete
Update: DETE has developed a proposed Terms of References and agreed participation with relevant stakeholders. The work programme includes meetings to discuss: 1) Updates on Climate Action Plan Actions 2) Embodied Carbon Lifecycle Assessment Approach and environmental certification of products 3) Public Procurement 4) Promoting Material Circularity in Construction 5) Promoting adoption of Alternative Materials
Action 135Continue to develop and support its Offshore Wind Industry Cluster which comprises over 50 Irish supply chain companies
Q4 2021 measure: Promote the strengths of the Irish supply chain with a focus on major
offshore wind developers, tier one industry contractors, Original Equipment Manufacturers,
trade associations, government agencies and ports through a programme of events
Responsible body: EI
Status: Complete
Update: Enterprise Ireland Offshore Wind Forum, Croke Park, Dublin, 8-9 June 2022; and National Irish pavilion at Global Offshore Wind Trade Exhibition, Manchester, 21-22 June 2022. Enterprise Ireland to co-exhibit with 10 Irish SMEs.
Action 135Continue to develop and support its Offshore Wind Industry Cluster which comprises over 50 Irish supply chain companies
Q1 2022 measure: Hold the Enterprise Ireland Offshore Wind Showcase Event, convening
delegates from across the Irish and UK offshore wind industry
Responsible body: EI
Status: Delayed
Update: This event was postponed due to Covid-19 and will now take place this summer. On the 8 and 9 June 2022, Enterprise Ireland will host the Enterprise Ireland Offshore Wind Forum in Croke Park, Dublin. This in-person event will convene the Irish offshore wind supply chain with industry stakeholders from across the Irish, UK and global offshore wind markets.
Action 138Publish a standard recommendation for the design, installation, and commissioning of solar PV panels in new and existing dwellings
Q4 2021 measure: Public consultation on draft deliverable Standard Recommendation in
line with standards regulations and principles
Responsible body: NSAI
Status: Complete
Update: A public consultation took place for Standard Recommendation 55 (S.R. 55) from 11 June 2021 until 13 August 2021. Members of the public were invited to comment on the draft Standard Recommendation via the NSAI ‘’Your Standards Your Say’’ platform. In total, 15 comments were received, of which many were technical in nature. All comments were reviewed and addressed by a committee of technical experts. Agreed changes were incorporated into the draft document and the comment resolution stage concluded in October 2021.
Action 138Publish a standard recommendation for the design, installation, and commissioning of solar PV panels in new and existing dwellings
Q1 2022 measure: Finalise and publish deliverable Standard Recommendation
Responsible body: NSAI
Status: Complete
Update: NSAI Standard Recommendation 55 (S.R. 55) provides practical information and guidance on the design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of solar photovoltaic systems in dwellings to ensure that they are designed and installed correctly, meet manufacturer’s criteria, are energy efficient and maximise output, whether for use by the dwelling or for export to the public electricity grid.
Action 139Adopt the international technical standard - “ISO TS 14092:2020” - to
provide guidance for local governments and communities in planning
for adaptation for climate change (e.g., sea level rise, coastal erosion,
and flooding)
Q1 2022 measure: Seek approval from NSAI board to adopt ISO TS 14092 regarding
adaptation to climate change as an Irish Standard Recommendation
Responsible body: NSAI
Status: Complete
Update: The NSAI Board approved the adoption of ISO TS 14092 as an Irish Standard Recommendation on 24 February 2022. Preparations now underway to begin a promotional campaign and deliver on step b) of the action.
Action 144Negotiate and implement the revised EU Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive which includes environmental information
Q4 2021 measure: Develop Ireland’s negotiating position on the draft EU Instrument
Responsible body: DETE
Status: Complete
Update: Irish position was supportive of the proposal and its objectives to enhance mandatory reporting on sustainability matters. Irish focus on - scope, definitions and sanctions and their alignment with existing EU law, proportionality for Small and Medium sized Enterprises and timelines for reporting and audit requirements.
Action 144Negotiate and implement the revised EU Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive which includes environmental information
Q4 2021 measure: Analyse responses from public consultation
Responsible body: DETE
Status: Complete
Update: Completed the analysis of the responses (12), which were significantly supportive, and this informed DETE’s inputs into the Working Party negotiations.
Action 145Promote a focus on CO2 reduction / sustainability credentials across
venture capital funds delivered under the EI Seed & Venture Capital
programme
Q4 2021 measure: Explore the feasibility of attracting funds with a focus on CO2 reduction
/ sustainability
Responsible body: EI
Status: Delayed
Update: In consultation with DETE, Enterprise Ireland are currently scoping an Evaluation of their Seed & Venture Capital programme, and within that, will be looking at market gaps, including those that affect companies in this sector. It is likely the report will be concluded late 2022.
Action 146Deliver the programmes to decarbonise enterprise outlined in the
National Development Plan (NDP) and Resilience and Recovery Fund
Submissions
Q1 2022 measure: Deliver the Carbon Reduction Fund
Responsible body: EI/IDA
Status: Delayed
Update: The development of the fund is in its final stages and will be launched in Q2 2022.
Action 147Promote the potential of innovation and applied research in Artificial
Intelligence, Machine Learning and Data Analytics to solve complex
challenges related to sustainability and the low carbon transition
Q4 2021 measure: Submit proposals relating to the application of AI in renewable energy
Responsible body: IDA
Status: Complete
Update: 2 large projects have been engaged and 25 companies. The Dairy Processing Technology Centre (DPTC) have completed the 2 climate action projects mentioned in the original list. These 2 projects involved 20 companies (both Small and Medium-Sized Enterprise and Multi-National Corporation) based in Ireland: Machine learning for Green Energy and Artificial Intelligence in Energy Bill reduction. In addition: • the joint project with ProvEye on using drones to monitor endangered habitats has finished. • DPTC are exploring a new project with MunichRe on green electricity. • the project with Future Analytics/KPMG on the analysis of urban districts to understand quality of life is finishing after almost 3 years. • - DPTC have completed the one-year project with Ultan Technologies on AI applied to demand prediction of residential energy consumption based on smart meter data.
Action 148Build a Pilot Technology Gateway in the North East Region to harness
the expertise of Dundalk IoT in terms of Energy Efficient and Energy
Optimisation of products
Q4 2021 measure: Collaborate with Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) and companies
in the region to promote DkIT as a provider of expertise to regional (and national)
companies
Responsible body: EI
Status: Complete
Update: Target of 8 company projects was met in October 2021.
Action 151Incorporate measurement of climate-related impacts into capital grant decisions by the enterprise agencies
Q4 2021 measure: Assess climate parameters to be included in the Economic Appraisal
Model and understand the potential to use data captured for the agency Economic
Appraisal Model
Responsible body: DETE
Status: Complete
Update: Internal research paper was complete in Q4 2021. Paper submitted to Steering Group overseeing process of including emissions in agencies’ appraisal system.
Action 152Enterprise Ireland to develop and publish their new corporate strategy 2022-2025, including a focus on climate action and sustainability
Q4 2021 measure: Set out actions to embed sustainability and climate action as a
fundamental part of its approach to company development and engagement with client
companies
Responsible body: EI
Status: Complete
Update: In January 2022, Enterprise Ireland published its new corporate strategy which includes a headline ambition for “Irish enterprises leading globally on sustainability and achieving climate action targets”. The strategy includes inititiatives to deliver increased funding and advisory services to EI client companies to transform companies’ sustainability performance and drive competitiveness. In addition, EI committed to help established companies and start-ups to realise market opportunities from the low carbon and circular economy transition. The strategy includes a target to deliver 425 climate action and green economy interventions.
Action 153Align Enterprise Ireland and IDA grant funding and supports with
progress towards achieving the carbon abatement targets for
enterprise, ensuring resilience in the transition to a low carbon
economy
Q1 2022 measure: Revise relevant policies governing EI and IDA financial supports to
enterprises, including equity funding and research, development, and innovation
Responsible body: DETE
Status: Complete
Update: Enterprise Ireland has commenced an examination of its assessment and approval processes to incorporate environmental impact considerations. In Q2, Enterprise Ireland will develop agreed process for assessment of environmental impact of EI’s financial products, which will be incorporated into the organisation’s application and assessment process. This work will incorporate the current review of the Economic Appraisal Model for project assessments ongoing with DETE. Timeframe for development of process is Q2 2022. IDA Ireland has introduced new measures that involve the sustainability and climate action practices and policies of potential investors being assessed as part of IDA Ireland’s investment evaluation process.
Action 153Align Enterprise Ireland and IDA grant funding and supports with
progress towards achieving the carbon abatement targets for
enterprise, ensuring resilience in the transition to a low carbon
economy
Q1 2022 measure: Revise policy and develop proportionate approach to due diligence to
include decarbonisation requirement so that EI and IDA will direct State investments to
projects which will deliver economic value consistent with the transition to a low carbon
economy
Responsible body: DETE
Status: Delayed
Update: Enterprise Ireland - an agreed approach with the Department of Enterprise will follow development of process outlined in action 153a. IDA Ireland - has introduced new measures that involve the sustainability and climate action practices and policies of potential investors being assessed as part of IDA Ireland’s investment evaluation process. An updated economic appraisal model, to include quantitative assessment of the climate impact of projects financially supported by the enterprise agencies, is in the process of being developed. There will be written confirmation from both agencies in due course.
Action 153Align Enterprise Ireland and IDA grant funding and supports with
progress towards achieving the carbon abatement targets for
enterprise, ensuring resilience in the transition to a low carbon
economy
Q1 2022 measure: Establish the sector specific funding requirements of clients in high-
impact sectors such as Food & Drink, Cement, Construction, Engineering, Pharma, and
other Manufacturing
Responsible body: DETE
Status: Complete
Update: Enterprise Ireland has partnered with Food & Drink manufacturing sites to understand their emissions profile, fuel use, energy efficiency progress to date, decarbonisation investment options and challenges. The insights from these site studies informed the Carbon Reduction Fund to be launched by Enterprise Ireland in Q2 2022. Enterprise Ireland is engaging with Cement companies in its client portfolio to establish current and potential future investment plans. Sustainability and climate action are an important pillar of IDA Ireland’s strategy. In working to decarbonise the Foreign Direct Investment sector, IDA Ireland takes a sector specific approach, with a particular emphasis on actions with potential to heavily abate carbon in high impact sectors.
Action 154Put in place training and educational programmes on sustainability and climate action for IDA executives
Q4 2021 measure: Implement training and educational programmes on best practice in
sustainability, climate action and decarbonisation
Responsible body: IDA
Status: Complete
Update: Training on carbon and energy management has been provided to IDA executives.
Action 155Experiment with initiatives to incorporate new content or modules
relating to climate and sustainability into Client Management
Development programmes
Q1 2022 measure: Assess existing EI programme of courses for 2021 to identify where
new content will fit best
Responsible body: EI
Status: Complete
Update: A number of key Enterprise Ireland client management development programmes – Leadership 4 Growth, International Selling Programme – have been developed to incorporate modules relating to sustainability, including connecting sustainability to the company’s value proposition and the relevance of sustainability to customer and supplier negotiations. Collation of feedback & additional agency actions resulting from these initiatives is ongoing.
Action 157Introduce pilot biodiversity measures in one of IDA’s Business Parks
Q4 2021 measure: Select Business Park and determine piloting programme
Responsible body: IDA
Status: Complete
Update: Pilot diversity measures have been introduced. An amenity area with biodiversity now exists.
Action 158Enable the preparation of detailed firm-level decarbonisation implementation strategies by large food & drink businesses
Q1 2022 measure: Taking a targeted approach to resilience in the food & drink sector, EI
will commence work with key clients in consultation with Bord Bia and SEAI, to investigate
and prepare a medium and long-term pathway towards decarbonisation through
development of detailed operational plans at company level
Responsible body: EI/Bord Bia
Status: Complete
Update: Enterprise Ireland engaged with 11 Food & Drink companies and has engaged consistently and proactively with Bord Bia and SEAI to progress towards a comprehensive understanding of client needs in terms of decarbonisation and appropriate supports delivered by various State agencies to accelerate progress.
Action 158Enable the preparation of detailed firm-level decarbonisation implementation strategies by large food & drink businesses
Q1 2022 measure: EI will build on Origin Green plans with the permission of companies to
enable further analysis at company level with a focus on the investment options, cost,
technical feasibility, barriers, and impact on company competitiveness of switching
technologies
Responsible body: EI/Bord Bia
Status: Complete
Update: Enterprise Ireland engaged with 11 Food companies to develop an analysis of current and future plans for decarbonisation, including investment options and technologies being envisaged. This information is being utilised to inform the development of the Carbon Reduction Fund and Enterprise Ireland’s wider approach to supporting companies to engage in decarbonisation activities.
Action 159Implement the €100m Capital Investment Fund for Agri-Food Sector for the Processing and Marketing of Agricultural Products
Q4 2021 measure: Roll out the Capital Investment Fund for AgriFood Sector to enable
companies to undertake long term transformative capital investment projects that will
contribute to the climate agenda. These projects are aimed at achieving higher value-add
by implementing new product and/or market diversification strategies
Responsible body: EI
Status: Complete
Update: Call 1 of Capital Investment Scheme completed in 2021. 22 companies had projects approved, with a total of €70,000,000 awarded to the successful applicants. Engagement with the companies continues.
Action 161Publish an Irish Standard to enable organisations apply a systematic
approach to Energy Efficient Design throughout the various steps of
design, construction, and commissioning of investment projects
Q1 2022 measure: Finalise and publish deliverable, and commence promotion
Responsible body: NSAI
Status: Complete
Update: The document was published in late December 2021 and has been promoted throughout Q1 2022.
Action 163Continue development of the second phase of the Dairy Processing
Technology Centre to develop technologies and approaches that will
deliver reduced carbon and greenhouse gas footprints in the dairy
industry
Q4 2021 measure: Implement the DPTC Phase 2 research programme which has a Focus
Area on Sustainable Milk Processing
Responsible body: EI
Status: Complete
Update: DPTC phase 2 has been implemented and the centre’s industrially relevant research into reducing the carbon footprint and increasing the sustainability of the Dairy Processing industry is underway. 7 of Ireland’s primary dairy producers continue to engage in 5 large sustainable milk production research projects as part of DPTC. The first meeting of the DPTC Sustainability Innovation Forum was held on 27 January 2022 with participation of DETE and Enterprise Ireland.
Action 164Enable the preparation of detailed decarbonisation implementation
strategies by client companies in high-impact sectors such as
Pharmaceuticals, Cement, Construction, Engineering, and other
manufacturing
Q1 2022 measure: Enable analysis at company level with a focus on the investment
options, cost, technical feasibility, barriers, and impact on company competitiveness of
significant carbon abatement through switching energy or production technologies,
including electrific
Responsible body: EI/IDA
Status: Delayed
Update: IDA has company decarbonisation plans, covering over 80% of client ETS emissions. Enterprise Ireland Climate Action Department and teams working in the high impact sectors such as Pharmaceuticals, Cement, Construction, Engineering, and other manufacturing are engaged in the development of the Climate Enterprise Action Fund which will support companies to develop plans for decarbonisation.
Action 165Develop Corporate Climate Action Plans with key clients for their Irish sites
Q4 2021 measure: Engage with key clients across all IDA targeted sectors (e.g., life
sciences, ICT, etc) to develop Corporate Climate Action Plans
Responsible body: IDA
Status: Complete
Update: 20 company climate action plans have been developed with key clients.
Action 166Identify and engage client companies using the most emissions-
intensive fuels (e.g., coal, pet coke and fuel oils) and support them to
develop proportionate decarbonisation plans to remain competitive
Q4 2021 measure: Delivery of the Climate Enterprise Action Fund to accelerate awareness
of abatement opportunities and to develop plans for lowercarbon products, processes, and
business models
Responsible body: EI
Status: Complete
Update: Enterprise Ireland continues to promote its Green offers across the client base. In 2021, there was a significant uplift in companies approved for training supports with 140 companies approved under the Climate Enterprise Action Fund (pilot 2021).
Action 166Identify and engage client companies using the most emissions-
intensive fuels (e.g., coal, pet coke and fuel oils) and support them to
develop proportionate decarbonisation plans to remain competitive
Q1 2022 measure: Identify clients using the most emissions-intensive fuels (coal, pet coke,
fuel oils etc.), and pro-actively engage them through the Climate Enterprise Action Fund to
ensure resilience in low carbon transition
Responsible body: EI
Status: Complete
Update: Enterprise Ireland has included new climate questions in its Annual Business Review survey. These responses by companies enable Enterprise Ireland to identify client companies which have indicated they are using particular fuels. Engagement with companies using emissions-intensive fuels is ongoing and these companies will be a focus of engagement through the Carbon Reduction Fund and Climate Enterprise Action Fund in 2022.
Action 170Develop the pipeline of high potential start-ups with low-carbon and sustainable solutions
Q4 2021 measure: Assist in the development of new carbon transition tools by high
potential start up clients, including targeting of cleantech/greentech startups through early-
stage funding competitions such as Competitive Start Fund
Responsible body: EI
Status: Complete
Update: As part of its approach to support a greater number of companies in lower carbon opportunities, EI High Potential Start-Up team is developing activities to identify, further promote and engage with companies in the sustainability and CO2 reduction areas. The capturing of such companies at a systems level has started. In 2021, 6/43 Competitive Start Fund approvals were identified and 4/9 new High Potential Start-Up approvals in Q1 2022 also fall into this category. The first call of Competitive Start Funds for 2022 is currently at assessment stage (targets included all sectors including companies with solutions to address the challenges and opportunities of climate change) and approvals will not be offered until end April – figures will be available in future updates, as will full figures for High Potential Start-Up Investments 2021. For information re detail on the step description of “new carbon transition tools”: This refers to, and will encompass, High Potential Start-Ups/ early stage companies who are developing products/services that will provide solutions across sectors of the economy/society to support improvements in sustainability, including carbon emission reductions.
Action 172Consider introducing a renewable energy obligation in the heat sector
Q4 2021 measure: Complete the public consultation on the potential introduction of a
renewable energy obligation in the heat sector
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Complete
Update: Consultation process completed in Q4 2021 with 50 submissions received all of which are available to view at https://www.gov.ie/en/consultation/7bc5b-consultation-on- the-introduction-of-a-renewable-heat-obligation/ Submissions are now being reviewed, with a submission to be made to Government in early 2022 on whether an obligation should be introduced.
Action 172Consider introducing a renewable energy obligation in the heat sector
Q1 2022 measure: Determine if renewable energy obligation should be introduced in the
heat sector
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Delayed
Update: Public consultation on an renewable energy obligation scheme completed in 2021 with decision now due Q2 2022.
Action 175Win ten environmental sustainability investments in 2021
Q4 2021 measure: Engage with clients and agree on investments
Responsible body: IDA
Status: Complete
Update: 10+ sustainability investments were won in 2021. Investments supported include activity that should lead to improved energy efficiencies and environmental sustainability.
Action 178Progress sustainability through business planning
Q1 2022 measure: Include reference to sustainability commitments and actions in the
tourism agencies annual Business Plans, Corporate Plans, Statements of Strategy and
Annual Reports
Responsible body: Tourism Ireland
Status: Complete
Update: Sustainability has been included as one of the main pillars of Fáilte Ireland’s Statement of Strategy with a number of workstreams and associated actions. Tourism Ireland’s 2022 Business Plan contains a dedicated section of sustainability actions.
Action 179Promote and market sustainable tourism
Q4 2021 measure: Create and embed aligned sustainability messaging to inform domestic
and overseas consumer campaigns, and domestic and overseas trade communications
Responsible body: Tourism Ireland
Status: Complete
Update: A new sustainability messaging for the island of Ireland consumer comunications has been developed: Ireland, Green by Nature. It has been agreed with Fáilte Ireland (and Tourism Northern Ireland) and tested with consumers who found it be appealing and credible. This will now be embeded in Tourism Ireland consumer communications material during 2022.
Action 179Promote and market sustainable tourism
Q4 2021 measure: Undertake media and trade familiarisation programmes which feature
sustainable tourism product
Responsible body: Tourism Ireland, Fáilte Ireland
Status: Delayed
Update: The Omicron Covid-19 wave postponed the return of media and trade familiarisation visits to Ireland. Both agencies are aligned on the ambition to increase the focus on sustainable product when visits return this year. This work will now take place in Q2 and throughout 2022.

Public Sector Lead

Action 53Develop a strategy to achieve at least a 51% reduction in GHG
emissions and a 50% improvement in public sector energy efficiency by
2030
Q1 2022 measure: Communicate measurement and systems to all Public Sector Bodies
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Delayed
Update: The Ministerial letter on the Public Sector Mandate (action 55b) will also communicate measurement and systems. Expected to be finalised in Q2 2022.
Action 53Develop a strategy to achieve at least a 51% reduction in GHG
emissions and a 50% improvement in public sector energy efficiency by
2030
Q1 2022 measure: Seek Government approval and publish new Public Sector Strategy for
delivery
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Delayed
Update: A working group to prepare the Public Sector Strategy has been established and the first meeting was held in April 2022. The strategy will be finalised in Q3 2022 and will be included as a standalone chapter in the Climate Action Plan 2023.
Action 55Introduce Climate Action Mandate for every public body
Q4 2021 measure: Develop framework for commercial semi-state sector to address
climate action objectives
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Delayed
Update: Work on the Framework has been completed and will shortly be brought to Government by the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications for approval.

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Action 55Introduce Climate Action Mandate for every public body
Q4 2021 measure: Issue a policy direction or equivalent to all public bodies requiring a
public body to adopt mandate and notify Climate Action Delivery Board
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Delayed
Update: A Memorandum requesting Government approval for the Mandate will be presented to Government shortly. Following receipt of Government approval, the Mandate will be published and circulated to all Ministers/Departments. This is expected to happen in Q2 2022.
Action 57Support the retrofit of public sector buildings
Q4 2021 measure: Examine how and when fossil-fuel heating systems could be phased-
out of public buildings, including disallowing the installation of any new fossil-fuel heating
systems
Responsible body: OPW
Status: Delayed
Update: Report is now complete and is scheduled for presentation to the OPW Management Board for final sign-off on 12 April 2022. Assuming approval is granted, report will issue that week.
Action 57Support the retrofit of public sector buildings
Q4 2021 measure: Develop the Public Sector Pathfinders capital programme to support
the retrofit of public buildings with a focus on greenhouse gas emissions reduction
Responsible body: SEAI
Status: Complete
Update: The Public Sector Pathfinder Programme was further enhanced and expanded in 2021 with new principles focusing on deeper retrofit and renewable heat to tackle Greenhouse Gas emissions. This is being facilitated with multi year Memoranda Of Understanding (MoUs) with the various partners to allow for planning of such projects. Three year MOU’s were put in place with the HSE and Department of Education based on the new principles of the Pathfinder Programme, with detailed discussions on MOUs proceeding with DFHERIS / HEA, OPW and a number of Local Authorities with a target for Q1 2022 for signing of these MOUs.

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Action 58Mandate the inclusion of green criteria in all procurements using public
funds, introducing requirements on a phased basis, and providing
appropriate support to procurers
Q4 2021 measure: Up skill programme to enable suppliers to respond to green criteria
within public procurement
Responsible body: EPA
Status: Complete
Update: EPA Green Public Procurement (GPP) guidance and criteria were published in Q3 2021, setting out best practice in relation to the embedding GPP in public expenditure. The EPA has also produced GPP training material specifically addressing suppliers. Please see: https://www.epa.ie/publications/circular-economy/resources/green-public- procurement-for-suppliers.php
Action 60Enhance communications on Climate Agenda in schools’ sector with a
particular focus on pilot deep energy retrofit projects delivered under
Pathfinder Programme in partnership with SEAI
Q4 2021 measure: Individual areas of work/projects identified and showcased in national
media
Responsible body: D/Education
Status: Complete
Update: Press release issued on 2 Janaury 2022 highlighting the launch by the Minister for Education Norma Foley TD and Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications Eamon Ryan TD of the €28 million Schools Energy Retrofit Pathfinder programme for 2022. The release also showcased Cornafulla National School in Roscommon which was upgraded as part of the 2021 Pathfinder programme.
Action 60Enhance communications on Climate Agenda in schools’ sector with a
particular focus on pilot deep energy retrofit projects delivered under
Pathfinder Programme in partnership with SEAI
Q1 2022 measure: Individual areas of work/projects identified and showcased in national
media
Responsible body: D/Education
Status: Complete
Update: Press release issued on 4 April featuring Mary’s Boys National School, St. Mary’s Hill, Monaghan. This school was one of the projects in the National Energy Efficiency Upgrade Pathfinder Programme for Schools 2021.

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Action 61Set a trajectory for commencing and implementing a deep energy retrofit programme for the higher and further education sectors
Q1 2022 measure: Map the technical and administrative capacity required to design,
deliver, and oversee a deep energy retrofit programme for the higher and further education
sectors
Responsible body: DFHERIS
Status: Complete
Update: Report setting out capacity requirements complete.
Action 62Establish an appropriately resourced Climate Action Unit in every
Government Department to ensure Climate considerations are at the
core of policy development
Q4 2021 measure: As per headline action
Responsible body: All Departments
Status: Complete
Update: At the end of Q3 2021, 16/18 (89%) Government Departments had established Climate Action Units. The remaining two Departments (DFHERIS and DCEDIY) completed this action in Q4 2021 and established their units, securing resources for Departmental climate action and completing the network of Units to be established across the system. Update from DFHERIS - “Capital Planning and Climate Change Unit established within the Corporate and Capital Division of the Department during Q4 2021” Update from DCEDIY - “Staff in the Corporate Governance Unit will ensure Climate considerations are at the core of policy development”

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Action 64Understand the potential role that regulators of electronic communications sectors can play in decarbonisation
Q4 2021 measure: Examine the impact of operator and Public Authorities’ decisions on the
environmental impact of the telecommunications sector
Responsible body: ComReg
Status: Complete
Update: The planned study was conducted by WiK and-Ramboll consultancy, with the title of “Environmental impact of electronic communications” and was published on 15 March 2022. The key findings from this report were incorporated as an Annex within the planned BEREC report, which was titled “Draft BEREC Report on Sustainability: Assessing BEREC’s contribution to limiting the impact of the digital sector on the environment”, which was published on 16 March for public consultation (which will close on 14 April). Once the submissions to the public consultation have been considered the report will be finalised and it is planned that it will be adopted and published in June 2022. As such, once the work got underway and it became clear that the majority of National Regulatory Authorities did not have a mandate to pursue environmental goals, the focus shifted from “identifying areas of regulatory intervention available to National Regulatory Authorities to maximise their positive contribution on the environment” to “assessing BEREC contribution to limiting the impact of the digital sector in the environment”, which will be completed in June 2022.

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The Circular Economy

Action 427Publish a Whole-of-Government Circular Economy Strategy and
promote the Circular Economy, including focus on awareness raising,
Green Public Procurement and international partnerships
Q4 2021 measure: Publish a whole-of- Government Circular Economy Strategy setting out
overall national policy in relation to circular economy
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Complete
Update: A whole-of-Government Circular Economy Strategy was published in Q4 2021.
Action 428Enact the Circular Economy Bill 2021Enact the Circular Economy Bill 2021
Q4 2021 measure: Enact the Circular Economy Bill 2021
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Delayed
Update: The Circular Economy Bill was approved by Cabinet on 30 March 2022. DECC is prioritising its enactment before the Summer Recess.

Figure from page 104

Figure from page 104

Action 430Strengthen the regulatory and enforcement frameworks for the waste collection and management system, to maximise circular economy principles
Q4 2021 measure: Revise the national standardised list of items accepted in the mixed dry recycling bin to capture more recyclable material
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Complete
Update: A new national recycling list has completed and is operational. Please see: https://www.mywaste.ie/news/soft-plastic- recycling/#:~:text=%E2%80%9CHouseholders%20can%20now%20place%20all- ,material%20types%20in%20recycling%20facilities & https://www.mywaste.ie/frequently-asked-questions/

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Action 430Strengthen the regulatory and enforcement frameworks for the waste
collection and management system, to maximise circular economy
principles
Q4 2021 measure: Complete revision of 2006 Best Practice Guidelines on the Preparation
of Waste Management Plans for Construction and Demolition Projects
Responsible body: EPA
Status: Complete
Update: Revised guidelines on the Preparation of Waste Management Plans for Construction and Demolition Projects have been published.
Action 430Strengthen the regulatory and enforcement frameworks for the waste
collection and management system, to maximise circular economy
principles
Q1 2022 measure: Scoping exercise on geochemical characterisation of the Dublin
Boulder Clay, with view to refining the management of excavated soil and stone, a key
C&D waste material, in urban Dublin
Responsible body: GSI
Status: Delayed
Update: Study is complete. This report is still in review with primary stakeholder the EPA. A summary of recommendations will be provided in Q2 2022.
Action 431Reduce demand for virgin raw materials and support re-use, by keeping
material out of waste streams through streamlined End-of-Waste and
By-Product decision-making processes and national End-of-Waste
decisions for specific Construction and Demolition wast
Q4 2021 measure: Enact necessary legislative changes via the Circular Economy Bill 2021
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Delayed
Update: The Circular Economy Bill was approved by Cabinet on 30 March 2022. DECC is prioritising its enactment before the Summer Recess.

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Action 432Reconfigure the current National Waste Prevention Programme as a
Circular Economy Programme for Ireland to drive the transition for
business, citizens and the public sector
Q4 2021 measure: Publish the Circular Economy Programme and activate its measures
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Complete
Update: The EPA published its National Circular Economy Programme on 16 December 2021 and will implement the measures set out over the 6 year lifetime of the Programme. The National Circular Economy Programme builds on the Agency’s very successful National Waste Prevention Programme which has been key in Ireland meeting its waste and recycling targets, and adds additional focus on supporting the development of the Circular Economy.
Action 433Continue to drive the rollout of CirculEire, the national circular economy platform
Q4 2021 measure: Collaborate with the Irish Research Manufacturing Technology Centre
team to maximise the impact of Circuleire
Responsible body: EPA
Status: Complete
Update: CirculEire is a three year programme, 2020-2022 and is an industry-led innovation network with a focus on circular manufacturing. Its network is expanding on an ongoing basis, with the most recent new company joining in April 2022. DECC’s funding commitment to CirculEire in 2021 was fully met.
Action 434The High-Level National Bioeconomy Implementation Group will report to Government and develop a detailed Bioeconomy Action Plan in 2022
Q1 2022 measure: Report to Government with an update on the implementation of the
National Bioeconomy Policy Statement
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Delayed
Update: Draft issued to the forum at end of March with comments due back end of April, with the intention of issuing by Q2 2022

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Action 436The Bioeconomy will be reflected across circular economy strategies and policies where relevant, and regulatory barriers will be examined
Q4 2021 measure: Where appropriate, the Bioeconomy will explicitly be included in
Circular Economy Whole of Government Strategy
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Complete
Update: The ‘Whole of Government Circular Economy Strategy 2022-2023 - Living More, Using Less’ was published in Q4 2021. Section 6.5 discusses the current work programme and national strategy of the bioeconomy. Additionally, Working Groups are ongoing. DECC recently hosted a Working Group on regulation surrounding the bioeconomy.
Action 438Opportunities to increase skills in the bioeconomy will be explored
Q1 2022 measure: Assess value chains based on diversified plant protein sources in terms
of their economic, environmental, and social impact on the rural economy and key actors
within it (e.g., primary producers and rural dwellers) and co-design path
Responsible body: Teagasc
Status: Complete
Update: New projects are funded and in progress, including: • The Horizon Europe project VALPRO Path with a total value of €9.95M, €1.41M to Teagasc. Coordinated by Ewen Mullins, the ambition of VALPRO Path is to co- create and demonstrate new added value opportunities for the sustainable and circular production of plant protein for both feed and high value food use in the EU. The project team brings together institutions/companies from Ireland, Portugal, Greece, Serbia, Germany, Austria and Italy. • Protein-I includes crop production through to human health while paying particular attention to the development of the rural bioeconomy. Protein-I will develop strategies to maximise sustainable plant protein production in a traceable/transparent fashion, assess the impact of changes to existing value chains and the development of new, value chains for the rural economy, at different scales, and promote uptake of such strategies. Additionally, Teagasc will develop consumer led approaches to diversify plant protein intake, model the impact at the population level and perform Human interventions to demonstrate efficacy in terms of achieving adequate nutrition and improved health parameters, within the context of a just transition.

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Action 439Develop a policy statement on mineral exploration and mining that
supports the sustainable supply of minerals required to transition to a
climate neutral economy, particularly in terms of the materials required
for renewable energy, energy storage (batteries), the move to a digital
economy, and electrifying the transport system
Q4 2021 measure: Finalise policy statement
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Delayed
Update: Expected to be finalised in Q3 2022. Finalisation delayed due to delay in confirming nominations to the Advisory Group on Mineral Exploration and Mining and our response to the submissions received during the public consultation requiring more analysis with the GeoScience Regulation Office.
Action 439Develop a policy statement on mineral exploration and mining that
supports the sustainable supply of minerals required to transition to a
climate neutral economy, particularly in terms of the materials required
for renewable energy, energy storage (batteries), the move to a digital
economy, and electrifying the transport system
Q4 2021 measure: Complete SEA/AA
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Delayed
Update: Expected to be published in Q3 2022. Finalisation of the SEA and AA follows the finalisation of the Policy Statement.
Action 439Develop a policy statement on mineral exploration and mining that
supports the sustainable supply of minerals required to transition to a
climate neutral economy, particularly in terms of the materials required
for renewable energy, energy storage (batteries), the move to a digital
economy, and electrifying the transport system
Q4 2021 measure: Support policy development through targeted research into Irelands
mineral potential and current use and value of Irish mineral production
Responsible body: GSI
Status: Delayed
Update: An interim Mineral Prospectivity Mapping deliverable (data release) was completed in February 2022 pending completion of project during 2022. This project is delayed due to ongoing procurement, administrative, resourcing and information technology delays and difficulties at GSI.
Action 440Develop a Food Waste Prevention Roadmap that sets out a series of
actions to deliver the reductions necessary to halve our food waste by
2030 and promote our transition to a circular economy
Q4 2021 measure: Publish Roadmap and commit resources to the EPA to undertake
national food waste prevention activities
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Delayed
Update: Initially, a Public Consultation on the roadmap was not anticipated as the document was subject to ongoing stakeholder consultation through consultative arrangements established under the Waste Action Plan for a Circular Economy. However, following production of the draft Roadmap, and in particular as it will become a statutory document following enactment of the Circular Economy Bill 2022, a full public consultation was deemed appropriate. That consultation concluded in March 2022.
Action 442Develop and implement a new Regional Waste Management Plans that will guide our transition to a circular economy
Q1 2022 measure: Publish Regional Waste Management Plans
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Delayed
Update: Local Authorities progressing, with expected delivery in Q3 2022. Reasons for delay can be ascribed to the complexity and scope of the project.
Action 443Develop new and expanded environmental levies to encourage reduced
resource consumption and incentivise higher levels of re-use and
recycling
Q1 2022 measure: Introduction of a new Waste Recovery levy
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Delayed
Update: Enactment of Circular Economy Bill progressing.

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Action 443Develop new and expanded environmental levies to encourage reduced
resource consumption and incentivise higher levels of re-use and
recycling
Q1 2022 measure: Introduction of a new levy on disposable coffee cups
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Delayed
Update: The Circular Economy Bill will provide the Minister with powers to introduce this levy. Enactment of Circular Economy Bill progressing.
Action 444Amend the Policy Statement on Petroleum. Exploration and Production
and amend legislation to copper fasten the Programme for Government
commitment on petroleum and gas exploration and extraction
Q4 2021 measure: Finalise policy statement on Petroleum and Gas Exploration and
Production Activities as part of Ireland’s Transition to a Low Carbon Economy
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Delayed
Update: The Policy Statement on Petroleum Exploration and Production is expected to be published in Q2 2022.

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Cross-Cutting Policies

Governance

Action 1Finalise Ireland’s long-term climate strategy
Q1 2022 measure: As per headline action
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Delayed
Update: This action is underway. Ireland’s draft Long-term Climate Strategy is being updated to align with domestically legislated government climate ambition and is due to be published in Q2.
Action 3Streamline the reporting process to distinguish to between key actions
that deliver significant emissions abatement, and supporting actions, to
allow for greater transparency on progress towards decarbonisation
Q1 2022 measure: As per headline action
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Complete
Update: DECC and D/Taoiseach will take a joint approach to modifying the reporting on Climate Action Plan actions from Q1 2022 onwards. Changes agreed by the Senior Officials Group on the Environment and Climate Change and the Climate Action Delivery Board will be reflected in the new approach which will ensure that focus is kept on key actions in quarterly reporting.
Action 3Streamline the reporting process to distinguish to between key actions
that deliver significant emissions abatement, and supporting actions, to
allow for greater transparency on progress towards decarbonisation
Q4 2021 measure: Hold quarterly meetings of the Climate Action Delivery Board
Responsible body: D/Taoiseach
Status: Complete
Update: A meeting of the Climate Action Delivery Board took place on 26 November 2021, co-chaired by D/Taoiseach and DECC and with attendance from Secretaries General from across Government Departments.

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Action 3Streamline the reporting process to distinguish to between key actions
that deliver significant emissions abatement, and supporting actions, to
allow for greater transparency on progress towards decarbonisation
Q1 2022 measure: Hold quarterly meetings of the Climate Action Delivery Board
Responsible body: D/Taoiseach
Status: Complete
Update: A meeting of the Climate Action Delivery Board was held on 28 January 2022, with attendance from Secretaries General from across Government Departments.
Action 3Streamline the reporting process to distinguish to between key actions
that deliver significant emissions abatement, and supporting actions, to
allow for greater transparency on progress towards decarbonisation
Q4 2021 measure: Publish progress report each quarter
Responsible body: D/Taoiseach
Status: Complete
Update: To allow more focus on implementation, a decision was taken to merge progress reporting for Q4 2021 and Q1 2022 given the publication of the final Annex of Actions for the Climate Action Plan 2021 in mid-December. A new Master file of all actions due for reporting was created in Q4 2021 by D/Taoiseach, with individual Departmental share points updated early in the new year with all measures due for reporting.
Action 3Streamline the reporting process to distinguish to between key actions
that deliver significant emissions abatement, and supporting actions, to
allow for greater transparency on progress towards decarbonisation
Q1 2022 measure: Publish progress report each quarter
Responsible body: D/Taoiseach
Status: Complete
Update: With the merging of progress reporting for Q4 2021 and Q1 2022, first text updates were received from all Departments on all Q4 2021 and Q1 2022 actions in early March. Final updates were confirmed in early April and brought before Government for approval, as contained in this first Progress Report on the Climate Action Plan 2021.

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Action 4Activate a process, incorporated in Cabinet procedures, to ensure that
all Government memoranda and major investment decisions are subject
to a climate mitigation and adaptation evaluation
Q1 2022 measure: Enhance Cabinet procedures to ensure that all Government
Memoranda are considered against their carbon impact and mitigation potential
Responsible body: D/Taoiseach
Status: Delayed
Update: D/Taoiseach made a presentation on climate consideration of Government Memoranda as part of the Climate Action Unit Network meeting on 29 March 2022. Draft guidance has been developed by the D/Taoiseach, however, has not issued as it was felt that it would benefit from further development, including expanding the scope to embed the consideration of carbon impact and mitigation potential at the earliest possible stage of policy development and developing measurement capacity across the system.
Action 6Action 6Complete the statutory process for the legal adoption of economy-
wide carbon budgets and sectoral ceilings
Q4 2021 measure: Propose initial multiannual carbon budget programme for 2021- 2035
Responsible body: Climate Change Advisory Council
Status: Complete
Update: Climate Change Advisory Council Technical Report published and submitted to Minister for consideration on 25 October 2021. Please see: https://www.climatecouncil.ie/media/climatechangeadvisorycouncil/Technical%20report%2 0on%20carbon%20budgets%2025.10.2021.pdf
Action 5Undertake a capacity review across all departments to ensure that both
the people and systems are configured to deliver on climate action
Q1 2022 measure: Establish Climate Action Unit network and scope governance work
programme
Responsible body: D/Taoiseach
Status: Complete
Update: The Climate Action Unit Network was established in Q1 2022. Its kick-off meeting took place on 29 March 2022, with attendance from over 40 civil servants across 17 Departmental Climate Action Units. Co-design of the work programme represented a key agenda item at the kick-off meeting and was followed by further written observations from Departments to ensure that Network activities are as meaningful and useful to its members as possible.

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Action 5Undertake a capacity review across all departments to ensure that both the people and systems are configured to deliver on climate action
Q1 2022 measure: As per headline action
Responsible body: All Departments
Status: Delayed
Update: Joint approach between D/Taoiseach, DECC and DPER on capacity and capability actions agreed at the Climate Action Delivery Board on 28 January 2022 and the Senior Officials Group on the Environment and Climate Change on 15 February 2022. Multiple inter-departmental meetings have taken place in Q1 to progress and scope this action, with an update also given to all Departments at the Climate Action Unit Network meeting on the 29 March 2022 on the planned approach. External expertise is being sought to assist in the development of methodologies, data gathering and analysis for this action (which has slightly delayed the process) but with the intention to roll-out and complete the capacity review in Q2 with participation from all Departments.

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Ensuring a Just Transition to a Climate Neutral Ireland

Action 11Integrate just transition considerations into sectoral policy development through the Climate Action Plan
Q4 2021 measure: Integrate just transition considerations into sectoral policy development
through the annual Climate Action Plan
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Complete
Update: DECC is engaging on an ongoing basis to promote the integration of the Climate Action Plan 2021 just transition principles into sectoral policy development. Key examples to date include ring-fencing carbon tax revenues for climate action; providing 100% grant funding for retrofitting to lower income households; and investing to support skills development in low carbon sectors.
Action 12Support the provision of strategic advice and research on just transition in Ireland, including future priorities and spatial and sectoral impacts
Q1 2022 measure: Undertake research to explore place-based opportunities for policy and
practice in transition through rural case studies
Responsible body: NESC
Status: Delayed
Update: Research report discussed at Council on 31 March 2022 and will be published early in Q2.
Action 12Support the provision of strategic advice and research on just transition in Ireland, including future priorities and spatial and sectoral impacts
Q1 2022 measure: Explore rural resilience and a just transition
Responsible body: NESC, D/Taoiseach
Status: Delayed
Update: Council report was completed in Q1 but will be published on 12 April 2022, launched by the Taoiseach. This event was rescheduled from original date of 21 March 2022.

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Action 13Deliver the Programme for Government commitment to develop a Green Further Education and Skills Development Plan
Q1 2022 measure: As per headline action
Responsible body: SOLAS
Status: Complete
Update: The Green Skills for Further Education & Training 2021-2030 Roadmap was launched on 23 March 2022 at the Further Education & Training Green Skills Summit. It incorporates the Green Skills Action Programme as part of the National Recovery and Resilience Plan. Please see: https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/93bdd-minister-harris- opens-green-skills-summit-focusing-on-irelands-transition-to-a-green-economy/
Action 14Promote the implementation of the study “Skills for Zero Carbon - The
Demand for Renewable Energy, Residential Retrofit and Electric Vehicle
Deployment Skills to 2030”
Q4 2021 measure: EGFSN to disseminate findings and explore with stakeholders how to
advance these recommendations with a view to delivering on identified skills needs
Responsible body: DETE
Status: Complete
Update: The Secretariat to the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs (EGFSN) has engaged with the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science on an implementation structure for the recommendations set out in Skills for Zero Carbon. This has resulted in the establishment of a SOLAS chaired Construction Sector Skills Recruitment Group, with representation from across the public sector and the private construction industry, which is aiming to deliver on construction related skills needs set out in Skills for Zero Carbon- covering both renewable energy project development and residential retrofit- as well as the EGFSN’s 2020 report Building Future Skills. The EGFSN Secretariat has also been actively engaging with and disseminating the Skills for Zero Carbon findings with Construction sector, Wind Energy, Offshore Renewable and Higher Education stakeholders.
Action 15Include climate action and just transition as themes for stakeholder consultation as part of the refresh of the nine Regional Enterprise Plans
Q4 2021 measure: Include transition to a low carbon economy as one of the key themes in
each of the nine regions’ consultation process for drafting the Regional Enterprise Plans to
2024, ensuring just transition principles are considered
Responsible body: DETE
Status: Complete
Update: Low carbon economy was included as part of the consultation process for the development of nine new Regional Enterprise Plans to 2024. A number of Regional Enterprise Plans to 2024 include transition to a low carbon economy as part of their Strategic Objectives.

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Action 16Promote timely and tailored activation and training responses for
workers whose jobs are at risk by the decarbonisation process and
other economic factors
Q4 2021 measure: Encourage early engagement from employers where DSP are aware
that business decisions regarding decarbonisation may result in job losses through the
promotion of DSP services in conjunction with the Education & Training Boards
Responsible body: DSP
Status: Complete
Update: The Department promotes a number of measures to support employers and the decarbonisation of the economy: • The new Work Placement Experience Programme provides for jobseekers to work remotely with host employers while gaining work experience (see www.gov.ie/WPEP). To date, four people have availed of a remote working work experience placement with four separate employers. • A European Online Jobs Day is planned with a particular focus on recruitment to vacant jobs that support climate change and sustainability. The event on 25 May 2022 will be open to jobseekers and others in Ireland and across the EU. The European Job Days are dynamic recruitment events that bring jobseekers and employers together to promote social mobility across Europe for job opportunities and provides practical information and advice from European Employment Services Advisers and other employment professionals.
Action 18In line with the Programme for Government, ensure that targeted social
welfare measures are put in place to prevent fuel poverty and support a
just transition
Q4 2021 measure: Continue currently available welfare supports i.e., Household Benefit
Package and Fuel Allowance, electricity and gas allowance under the Household Benefit
Scheme, the Supplementary Welfare Allowance to financially support disadvantaged
groups
Responsible body: DSP
Status: Complete
Update: Supports such as Household Benefits, Fuel Allowance and Supplementarty Welfare Allowance continue to be provided by the Department. Changes to rates and thresholds presented in the Budget were implemented in the Budget Bill in December 2021.

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Action 19Support the work of the Just Transition Commissioner in the Midlands region for the successful implementation of just transition measures
Q4 2021 measure: Provide support to the work of Just Transition Commissioner
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Complete
Update: Final report of the Just Transition Commissioner was published by the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications in April 2022. Please see: https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/e0e7e-climate-action-plan-to-tackle-climate- breakdown-just-transition/
Action 21Deliver the NPWS/DHLGH Peatlands Restoration Programme for the
raised bog habitat within the Special Area of Conservation and Natural
Heritage Area networks
Q4 2021 measure: Implement restoration plans
Responsible body: DHLGH
Status: Complete
Update: In 2021, restoration measures were undertaken on 8 protected raised bog sites, with just under 5000 peat/plastic dams and 13.6 kilometres of bunding completed within an area of over 620 ha. Further phases of the restoration programme continue in 2022.
Action 26Support delivery of projects under the Just Transition Fund
Q1 2022 measure: Issue funding agreements to successful projects and finalise
arrangements for delegated management of the Fund
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Delayed
Update: 55 National Just Transition Fund projects have finalised funding agreements. Further details of projects are available at: https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/ed10d-just- transition-fund/. DECC and Offaly County Council are continuing to engage with a view to finalising terms for delegated administration of the Fund.

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Action 26Support delivery of projects under the Just Transition Fund
Q4 2021 measure: Midland Regional Transition Team (MRTT) Working Groups to provide
assistance to Grantees for project implementation
Responsible body: MRTT
Status: Complete
Update: The MRTT working groups have engaged with National Just Transition Fund grantees and has facilitated a ‘Briefing Series’ in relation to Strand 1 grantees to create awareness and synergies between the projects. In relation to Strand 2 projects, members of the MRTT have assisted projects with grant agreement verification process. A number of Strand 2 projects have presented to the Working Groups, providing a platform for project leads to outline various project components and link with other regional stakeholders to develop bespoke training programmes to meet identified skill needs. Recordings of these sessions can be assessed on the MidlandsIreland.ie YouTube Channel.
Action 28Support enterprise development in the Midlands region, centred on the role of the new Regional Enterprise Plans to 2024
Q4 2021 measure: Prepare and launch Midlands Regional Enterprise Plan to 2024
Responsible body: Midlands Regional Enterprise Plan Steering Committee
Status: Complete
Update: The Midlands Regional Enterprise Plan to 2024 was launched by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment in Mullingar on 1 March 2022.
Action 31Examine opportunities to further develop tourism, outdoor and recreation amenities/facilities for the Midlands region
Q4 2021 measure: Examine ways in which to develop tourism in the Midlands through
reviewing areas such as a network of trails, green positioning, and peatlands heritage
Responsible body: Failte Ireland
Status: Complete
Update: A feasibility study on the future tourism potential of the peatlands in the midlands was completed. This preliminary study suggests that a more holistic perspective on the green energy transition currently taking place in the Midlands potentially presents a much more significant tourism opportunity than an experience solely centred on peatlands. Accordingly, Fáilte Ireland in partnership with Bórd na Móna are now exploring possible tourism opportunities such as a strategic trails network, green/eco positioning of the region, and an industrial heritage backstory.

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Action 33Deliver the Enhanced Decommissioning, Rehabilitation and Restoration Scheme for Bord Na Móna peatlands
Q4 2021 measure: Restore 33,000 hectares of peatlands across 81 bogs owned by Bord
na Móna that have been industrially extracted for energy production
Responsible body: Bord na Móna
Status: Complete
Update: The scheme Regulator, the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) has been officially appointed. To date rehabilitation plans have been approved of all 19 Year 1 bogs, as planned. Physical works and rehabilitation measures commenced on 18 bogs with works fully completed on 1 bog. The 2021 target was to have works commenced on 19 bogs. At the end of 2021, the area rehabilitated was 5,196 Ha. A further 21 rehabilitation plans shall be submitted by Bord na Móna for approval by the Regulator (NPWS). The 2021 shortfall in rehabilitation measures will be incorporated into the 2022 works.

Citizen Engagement

Action 34Advance coordinated climate action communications from the centre of Government
Q4 2021 measure: Maintenance and update of gov.ie/climate action
Responsible body: D/Taoiseach
Status: Complete
Update: Regular updates were undertaken on Gov.ie/ClimateAction to reflect developments in the climate action area. In Q4 2021, Gov.ie/ClimateAction was updated to reflect the publication of the Climate Action Plan 2021, its associated Annex of Actions, and the Interim Climate Actions - Third Progress Report.
Action 34Advance coordinated climate action communications from the centre of Government
Q1 2022 measure: Maintenance and update of gov.ie/climate action
Responsible body: D/Taoiseach
Status: Complete
Update: Regular updates were undertaken on Gov.ie/ClimateAction to reflect developments in the climate action area. During Q1 2022, the latest news regarding climate action across Government departments was maintained and updated on a regular basis, as were the details of relevant public consultations.

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Action 34Advance coordinated climate action communications from the centre of Government
Q1 2022 measure: Establish Civil Service wide climate change communications structure,
with dedicated support from Government Information Services
Responsible body: D/Taoiseach
Status: Complete
Update: Following discussions at the Senior Officials Group on the Environment and Climate Change, a Climate Communications Coordination Committee, chaired by the D/Taoiseach and including representatives from all Departments and key agencies has established. This Committee will consider cross-cutting issues such as the design and implementation of all-of-Government strategic communications activities and campaigns, general and specific attitudinal and behaviour research as well as public and stakeholder engagement. It will also assist and advise in the development of overarching messaging content. The Secretary General of D/Taoiseach has written to all Departments and a number of key agencies (SEAI, EPA, NTA, Teagasc) to seek nominations to the Committee. A Climate Communications Working Group has also been established to assist in day-to- day climate communication coordination. This group will be chaired at Assitant Principal level by the Department of the Taoiseach - an Assitant Principal has been assigned on Secondment to work with the Climate Action Unit and Government Information Services.
Action 37Support, through the education system, the required initiatives to support the development of a climate neutral economy
Q4 2021 measure: Ensure all learners acquire knowledge and skills needed to promote
sustainable development, including among others through education for sustainable
development and sustainable lifestyles, human rights, gender equality, promotion of a
culture of peace and non-violence, global citizenship, and appreciation of cultural diversity
and of culture’s contribution to sustainable development
Responsible body: D/Education
Status: Complete
Update: Issue 5 published in November 2021. Please see: https://www.gov.ie/en/collection/a1d6e-education-for-sustainable-development-newsletter/

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Action 37Support, through the education system, the required initiatives to support the development of a climate neutral economy
Q1 2022 measure: Ensure all learners acquire knowledge and skills needed to promote
sustainable development, including among others through education for sustainable
development and sustainable lifestyles, human rights, gender equality, promotion of a
culture of peace and non-violence, global citizenship, and appreciation of cultural diversity
and of culture’s contribution to sustainable development
Responsible body: D/Education /DFHERIS
Status: Delayed
Update: Finalisation of the 2nd National Strategy on Education for Sustainable Development to 2030 and imlementation plan 2022 - 2025 is underway. It is expected that both will be published in Q2.
Action 37Support, through the education system, the required initiatives to support the development of a climate neutral economy
Q1 2022 measure: Ensure all learners acquire knowledge and skills needed to promote
sustainable development, including among others through education for sustainable
development and sustainable lifestyles, human rights, gender equality, promotion of a
culture of peace and non-violence, global citizenship, and appreciation of cultural diversity
and of culture’s contribution to sustainable development
Responsible body: D/Education
Status: Complete
Update: Issue 6 published in March 2022. Please see: https://www.gov.ie/en/collection/a1d6e-education-for-sustainable-development-newsletter/
Action 38Deliver the National Climate Change Action and Awareness Programme
to support the international Foundation for Environmental Education
programmes through Green-Schools, Green-Campus and Young
Reporters forthe Environment
Q4 2021 measure: Organise Climate Action Week as an opportunity to support actions
and communications across Green-Schools, GreenCampus and Young Reporter for the
Environment
Responsible body: An Taisce
Status: Complete
Update: Climate Action Week was held on 11 October to 17 October 2021

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Action 39Support initiatives and activities that deliver practical and innovative solutions to address climate change at local level
Q4 2021 measure: Build the capacity of the Social Inclusion and Community Activation
Programme (SICAP) stakeholders at local level to engage with Climate Change agenda
Responsible body: Pobal
Status: Complete
Update: Climate change actions have been included in 10 of the 51 Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme annual plans. Some actions include: • Practical actions to develop and nurture an interest in environment and biodiversity • Participation in ‘Grow it yourself’ and ‘Grow it forward’ initiatives in collaboration with key agencies • Work with social enterprises to achieve positive environmental impacts • Actively support and participate in the Sustainable Development Climate Change Group • Support the roll out of the SEAI programme for Sustainable Energy Communities
Action 39Support initiatives and activities that deliver practical and innovative solutions to address climate change at local level
Q4 2021 measure: Identify core themes from CAP and other policy priority areas to be
examined in NDCA activities including Just Transition, energy, waste, built environment,
transport, and agriculture
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Complete
Update: The inputs received from over 4,000 participants as part of the Climate Conversations were collated, summarised and communicated to key sectoral areas and policy leads to provide input into the Climate Action Plan 2021. The Climate Conversation Report 2021 was launched virtually on 10 November 2021 by Minister Eamon Ryan. Please see: https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/4bf2c-national- dialogue-on-climate-action-ndca/. The findings of the Climate Conversations 2021 will also inform the design of the Climate Conversations 2022.

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Action 39Support initiatives and activities that deliver practical and innovative solutions to address climate change at local level
Q4 2021 measure: Launch the Community Climate Action Programme – ‘Building Low
Carbon Communities’ and ‘Learning by Doing’ under the Climate Action Fund
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Complete
Update: The Community Climate Action Programme was launched on 10 November 2021.
Action 39Support initiatives and activities that deliver practical and innovative solutions to address climate change at local level
Q1 2022 measure: Complete PPN structural review, including a focus on ensuring PPNs
are fit for purpose for climate action
Responsible body: DRCD
Status: Complete
Update: The final structural review report has been completed and will be submitted to the Management Board shortly.
Action 40Build a new national and local citizen engagement model through the National Dialogue on Climate Action
Q4 2021 measure: As part of a new Rural Ideas Forum, organise a Stakeholder
Engagement Event for discussion and information sharing on the topic of climate action
and its impact on rural communities.
Responsible body: DRCD
Status: Complete
Update: DRCD held three thematic Rural Ideas Fora in October/November 2021 as per a commitment in Our Rural Future - Rural Development Policy 2021-2025. The events focused on the themes of Digital, Climate Action, and Town and Village Renewal.
Action 40Build a new national and local citizen engagement model through the National Dialogue on Climate Action
Q4 2021 measure: Develop and launch an Implementation Plan for the NDCA to define
roadmap for national and local citizen and stakeholder engagement
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Complete
Update: Chapter 8 (Engagement) in the Climate Action Plan 2021 and the accompanying actions in the Annex of Actions constitute the strategy and approach to implementation for the National Dialogue on Climate Action. A more detailed internal project management plan has also been produced but is not suitable for publication as it is in an internal document guiding detailed delivery of the programme of work.
Action 40Build a new national and local citizen engagement model through the National Dialogue on Climate Action
Q4 2021 measure: Reconvene and expand Inter-departmental Working Group (IDWG)
chaired by the DECC to support implementation of NDCA
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Delayed
Update: A number of Ministerial task forces are being established to guide the implementation of the Climate Action Plan 2021. One such task force will focus on climate literacy and engagement. This task force will supersede the previous plans to establish an Inter-departmental Working Group. The task forces are in the final stages of planning and are due to be signed off by senior management and the Minister in the coming weeks.
Action 40Build a new national and local citizen engagement model through the National Dialogue on Climate Action
Q4 2021 measure: Organise a climate lecture series and a climate conference to bring
together policy makers, academics, practitioners, and NGOs to discuss key issues relating
to climate action
Responsible body: EPA
Status: Complete
Update: Climate Lectures held in Q4 2021: The second climate change lecture of the year was held online on 15 November 2021. The speaker was Professor Michael Mann of Penn University, USA. Professor Mann discussed the outcomes of COP26, Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Climate Science Report and the threat of human-caused climate change for civilisation and the systemic challenges by society. 500 people attended on the night. The lecture can be viewed on the EPA’s YouTube channel at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M6VTnnpUFx8 Preparations for first Climate Lecture 2022 planned for April with Tony Leiserowitz, Yale University is underway and EPA Climate Conference is in planning for 1 June 2022.
Action 40Build a new national and local citizen engagement model through the National Dialogue on Climate Action
Q1 2022 measure: Organise and host a National Climate Stakeholder Forum
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Complete
Update: The 2022 NDCA work programme facilitates the analysis of research and engagement activity for all events held throughout the year with the findings progressing to inform sectoral plans and the Climate Action Plan 2022. Events include: • The First National Youth Climate Assembly. This is a joint initiative led by DCEDIY and DECC. The Assembly was held virtually on 2 March 2022. • The National Climate Stakeholders Forum held on 22 March and brought together policy makers, organisations and NGOs. • 2022 Climate Conversations which will be launched in May. • A public consultation seeking citizen and expert views to inform the design of policies, measures and actions for CAP 2022 • A series of local climate lectures and workshops addressing local issues at local level. Further events will be announced and details of all events can be found at: https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/4bf2c-national-dialogue-on-climate-action-ndca/
Action 41Design and conduct annual Climate Conversations and Public Consultation on the Climate Action Plan
Q1 2022 measure: Consult with stakeholders to ensure content and questions included in
the public consultation are consistent with their policies in the current Climate Action Plan
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Complete
Update: The National Climate Stakeholders Forum was held on 22 March 2022 and brought together policy makers, organisations and NGO’s. The Climate Conversation 2022 will launch in May. This will include an online questionnaire open to all citizens, Community Conversation workshops and Indepth conversations with stakeholders including PPN’s and stakeholders. Research findings from these and all NDCA 2022 events will progress to inform sectoral plans and the Climate Action Plan 2022. Two more fora will be held this year in June and September to engage with members of the Oireachtas offering an opportunity to hear from stakeholders, discuss the recommendations emerging from the March events, and explore how these recommendations can be delivered on.
Action 41Design and conduct annual Climate Conversations and Public Consultation on the Climate Action Plan
Q1 2022 measure: Design a call for evidence to seek expert views from organisations and
citizens to feed into the design of the Climate Action Plan
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Delayed
Update: Call for evidence to be sent out by end of April.

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Action 42Continue to support the delivery of projects approved for funding as part of the first round of support from the Climate Action Fund
Q1 2022 measure: Continue to support the delivery of the projects funded through the
Creative Climate Action Fund
Responsible body: DTCAGSM
Status: Complete
Update: The Creative Climate Action Fund has established 15 creative, cultural, artist and community led projects that build awareness around climate change and empower citizens to make meaningful behavioural transformations through creative activity. The projects are spread geographically across the country from projects based in Mayo, Conamara Gaeltacht Galway, Kerry, Cork, Waterford, Tipperary, Limerick, Roscommon, Kilkenny, Dublin and projects reaching into Donegal and Clare. The projects address a range of climate actions and issues, for example, transitional change to more sustainable means of agriculture methods in rural communities, energy awareness, community waste, biodiversity and specific measures to highlight negative climate change impacts, such as rising tides to name a few. To date, the projects have generally passed the community engagement phase of their projects, held a series of workshops and briefings with the target and broader communities, recruited project partners/artists and planned a series of live events to take place throughout 2022. These events, scheduled over the coming months, will range from artist installations, further community engagement, story-telling events, conferences and exhibitions, to raise and engage communities on awareness and behavioural change on climate action through the creative arts and wider community.
Action 43Support the provision of training and capacity building in relation to
climate change to community development and local development
organisations
Q4 2021 measure: Determine the scope for supporting the provision of training and
capacity building in relation to climate change to, community development and local
development organisations including under the Climate Action Fund.
Responsible body: DRCD
Status: Complete
Update: Training needs assessment of Local Community Development Committees complete and report received. DRCD is currently considering recommendations. Other strands of sector currently being audited for training needs. DRCD look forward to engaging with DECC on providing necessary training to the sector.

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Action 44Employ the latest research to provide an evidence base to support work
of the NDCA, communications and the Inter-departmental Working
Group, drive sectoral demand shifts and behavioural change, and
provide input into policy
Q4 2021 measure: Establish a National Climate Change Behavioural Insights and
Implementation Unit
Responsible body: EPA
Status: Delayed
Update: National Climate Change Behavioural Insights and Implementation Unit, currently recruiting a behavioural scientist. New behavioural scientist post advertised unsuccessfully in Q4 2022. To be re-advertised in April 2022.
Action 44Employ the latest research to provide an evidence base to support work
of the NDCA, communications and the Inter-departmental Working
Group, drive sectoral demand shifts and behavioural change, and
provide input into policy
Q4 2021 measure: Establish a National Social and Behavioural Advisory Group on Climate
Action
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Delayed
Update: First meeting of the National Social and Behavioural Advisory Group on Climate Action will be held in Q2 2022. The structure of the Advisory Group is currently being reviewed and awaiting approval.
Action 44Employ the latest research to provide an evidence base to support work
of the NDCA, communications and the Inter-departmental Working
Group, drive sectoral demand shifts and behavioural change, and
provide input into policy
Q4 2021 measure: Conduct a national baseline study Climate Change in the Irish Mind
examining Irish behaviours and attitudes around climate change awareness, engagement,
and activation of public
Responsible body: EPA
Status: Complete
Update: The ‘Climate Change in the Irish Minds’ study was completed in 2021, and the first results from the data published at: https://www.epa.ie/environment-and-you/climate- change/what-is-epa-doing/ndcayale-work/climate-change-in-the-irish-mind/ Further sectoral and segmentation analysis will be carried out with reports due in the first half of 2022.
Action 45Design and implement a robust project management system to monitor NDCA progress
Quarterly measure: Collate, and analyse social and behavioural research insights by key
themes and sectors including Just Transition, energy, waste, transport, built environment
and agriculture
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Complete
Update: Climate in the Irish Minds Study is available at: https://www.epa.ie/environment- and-you/climate-change/what-is-epa-doing/ndcayale-work/climate-change-in-the-irish-mind/ Sectoral and regional reports to be published in Q1 and Q2 2022.
Action 45Design and implement a robust project management system to monitor NDCA progress
Quarterly measure: Collate, and analyse social and behavioural research insights by key
themes and sectors including Just Transition, energy, waste, transport, built environment
and agriculture
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Complete
Update: Climate in the Irish Minds Study - sectoral and regional reports to be published Q1 and Q2 2022.
Action 47Promote sustainable destination management
Q1 2022 measure: Ensure that the guiding principles for sustainable tourism development
are embedded in Fáilte Ireland’s Destination Experience Development Plans (DEDPs)
Responsible body: Fáilte Ireland
Status: Complete
Update: Destination Experience Development Plans now include a set of actions around Environmental Compliance and link to the guiding principles for sustainable tourism established by the Sustainable Tourism Working Group.
Action 47Promote sustainable destination management
Q1 2022 measure: Develop and promote a sustainability pledge for both inbound and
domestic tourists and tour operators to support Ireland’s efforts to help preserve the
environment and act in a responsible and sustainable manner
Responsible body: Sustainable Tourism Working Group
Status: Delayed
Update: Tourism Ireland has undertaken an analysis of the visitor pledges in place in other destinations, and sought a consumer perspective in a recent research study. Delayed due to resource constraints. Delivery date expected: Q4 2022.
Action 48Further develop and embed a comprehensive well-being framework for Ireland, with a strong focus on sustainability
Q4 2021 measure: Publish initial Well-being Dashboard
Responsible body: D/Taoiseach
Status: Complete
Update: An interactive dashboard hosted by the CSO was launched in October 2021 on its well-being information hub as a supporting tool to the well-being framework.
Action 48Further develop and embed a comprehensive well-being framework for Ireland, with a strong focus on sustainability
Q1 2022 measure: Conduct public conversation to further develop the Well-being
Framework
Responsible body: D/Taoiseach
Status: Complete
Update: A second phase of consultation and research on the Framework, as committed to in the first report, was launched in October 2021 and included the launch of a Government Portal. The purpose of this Public Conversation, which concluded in January 2022, was to create awareness, test the framework and the vision, and to get a further sense of people’s priorities. It included: a comprehensive communications campaign with over 43,000 ‘engagements’; a large online stakeholder event; an online survey with 734 respondents; and three thematic workshops.
Action 49Progress the establishment of a Citizens’ Assembly on Biodiversity
Q1 2022 measure: Conclude and analyse youth engagement on scope of Assembly
Responsible body: NPWS
Status: Delayed
Update: Work is underway to plan the young people’s Assembly. This work will progress in Q2 and will continue throughout the remainder of 2022.
Action 50Supporting Climate and Biodiversity progress through relevant strategic advice to enhance evidence-based decision-making
Q1 2022 measure: Provide advice on ‘how-to’ progress strategic or challenging projects
(which may be identified during the current planning, modelling and bottom-up process)
Responsible body: NESC
Status: Delayed
Update: Advice in three parts: • Council Comments with strategic advice on place-based opportunities in a just transition (Action 12a) will be published in early Q2. • Interim report on engagement and advice on agriculture and just transition in Q4 (Action 405). • Advisory report on just transition methods and engagement drawing on body of just transition work (Q4).

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Carbon Pricing and Planning

Action 65Continue to work with all Departments to ensure that the central
policies adopted in relation to expenditure and taxation are conducive
to the achievement of the Government’s climate objectives
Q1 2022 measure: Develop and implement a Blended Working Policy Framework for Civil
Service Organisations
Responsible body: DPER
Status: Complete
Update: The Blended Working Policy Framework was officially published by the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform and the Minister for State on 31 March 2022. The Framework has been distributed to all Civil Service organisations to allow for the development of their own blended working policies, as soon as possible but no later than end Q2 2022.
Action 66Monitor and review successive carbon tax increases as legislated in the 2020 Finance Act
Every Q4 measure: As per headline action
Responsible body: DFIN
Status: Complete
Update: Review of Carbon Tax policy was undertaken in the 2021 TSG paper Climate Action and Tax. Monitoring and review will continue throughout successive budget processes
Action 66Monitor and review successive carbon tax increases as legislated in the 2020 Finance Act
Q4 2021 measure: Contract the ESRI to undertake research under the Joint Research
Programme Paper on sectoral and household impacts of carbon tax trajectory
Responsible body: DFIN
Status: Complete
Update: The ESRI working paper, using the I3E model, was published in December 2021. This examined the impacts of 2030 targets for carbon tax increases, electric vehicles uptake and heat pump installation on the Irish economy. Please see: https://www.esri.ie/publications/the-impacts-of-electric-vehicles-uptake-and- heat-pump-installation-on-the-irish

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Action 66Monitor and review successive carbon tax increases as legislated in the 2020 Finance Act
Every Q4 measure: The allocation of carbon tax revenues to be included in the Budget
Responsible body: DPER
Status: Complete
Update: The additional revenue raised by the carbon tax has been allocated in line with the programme for Government commitments and a paper explaining the allocations was published alongside Budget 2022.
Action 67Ongoing examination of environmental taxation measures across all relevant tax heads as part of the annual budgetary process
Every Q4 measure: Consideration of a number of reforms to the taxation system under
relevant tax heads from an environmental perspective
Responsible body: DFIN
Status: Complete
Update: Environmental Tax measures were reviewed in the 2021 TSG paper Climate Action and Tax. Consideration of options will continue throughout successive budget processes
Action 68Continue to reform budgetary process and procedures to provide
transparency on the Government’s financial commitments to the climate
change agenda
Q4 2021 measure: Develop and publish a methodology to identify expenditures that are
having a negative impact on emissions and identify these expenditures through the
budgetary process on an ongoing basis
Responsible body: DPER
Status: Delayed
Update: The budgetary data required to complete this action will only be available in 2022. The paper is expected to be finalised in 2022.
Action 71Examine Green Budgeting practices from a tax perspective
Q4 2021 measure: Undertake analysis and research on Green Budgeting
Responsible body: DFIN
Status: Complete
Update: A Review of Green Budgeting from a Tax Perspective was published on the Department of Finance website on Budget day. Please see: https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/7e491-taxation-measures/

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Action 72Support sustainable State infrastructure projects through the National Development Finance Agency
Q1 2022 measure: Prepare a green procurement plan detailing climate action and
sustainability initiatives being undertaken, including appropriate formal environmental
assessment, sustainability scoring in tender assessment and the use of digital technologies
for design, construction, and operation to facilitate better resource efficiency
Responsible body: NDFA
Status: Complete
Update: Green Procurement Plans have been prepared for 3 out of 3 projects procured by NDFA. The 3 projects are Higher Education PPP Bundles 1 &2 comprising 11 higher education facilities, and Project Nore - an Exchequer funded project comprising 7 schools. Please see: https://www.ndfa.ie/project sectors/education _
Action 73Use the mandate of the New Economy and Recovery Authority
(NewERA) to support the mobilisation of private finance for climate-
related investment
Q1 2022 measure: NewERA will work with the commercial State companies, the Ireland
Strategic Investment Fund, the Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland, and other public
bodies to mobilise private investment towards assisting in meeting our climate objectives
Responsible body: NewERA
Status: Delayed
Update: Q1 update due from NewERA early in Q2.
Action 75Promote the further development of the sustainable finance sector to facilitate increased investment in zero-emission sectors in Ireland
Every Q4 measure: Engagement on the sustainable finance agenda at EU and
international level, including through the work programme of the Coalition of Finance
Ministers for Climate Action
Responsible body: DFIN
Status: Complete
Update: Irish views and input raised at various Expert Group meetings on EU Taxonomy, EU Taxonomy Delegated Acts, and EU Green Bond Standard. Liaison carried out across relevant Departments, and close work undertaken with EU Presidency on substantive issues.

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Action 75Promote the further development of the sustainable finance sector to facilitate increased investment in zero-emission sectors in Ireland
Q4 2021 measure: Implement the Actions set out in Ireland’s Sustainable Finance
Roadmap so that Ireland becomes a world leader in Sustainable Finance by 2025
Responsible body: DFIN
Status: Complete
Update: Initial meeting of D/Finance led Public Private group held at end Q4 2021. All actions have begun, outputs are expected throughout 202, with the first reporting in Q2 2022.
Action 75Promote the further development of the sustainable finance sector to facilitate increased investment in zero-emission sectors in Ireland
Q1 2022 measure: Implement the Actions set out in Ireland’s Sustainable Finance
Roadmap so that Ireland becomes a world leader in Sustainable Finance by 2025
Responsible body: DFIN
Status: Complete
Update: Actions delivered during Q1 2022 include: • Centre of Excellence - engagement with Skillnet Ireland and Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science ongoing, work; commenced with with Science Foundation Ireland and EI; • Database of skills courses already existent created by Sustainable Finance Skillnet - work commenced on development of new courses, including specialist courses for compliance officers; • Commissioned reports into skills gap, biodiversity, Irish involvement in international activities being promoted; • Sustainable Finance Data Roadmap under development, initial input delivered in March; • Terms of Reference for Fintech Strategy group drafted - membership under discussion; • Sustainable Finance Flagship Programme near ready to launch (expected Q3 2022); and • Public - Private Sustainable Finance Group established - calendar of meetings being finalised.

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Action 77Promote opportunities for EIB investment in relevant climate projects in Ireland through EIB Financing Ireland
Q4 2021 measure: Oversight of EIB Financing Ireland subgroups, of which climate is a
cross cutting theme
Responsible body: DFIN
Status: Complete
Update: EIB-Ireland meeting held in November 2021, hosted by Minister Donohoe and attended by EIB President Hoyer and Vice-President Kettel-Thomsen. Bilateral meeting with EIB officials and Minister Ryan also. The purpose of such meetings is to provide a forum to discuss how the EIB can assist Departments across Government in accessing climate financing, which may assist them in meeting their climate-related objectives in the Programme for Government. The Financing Group is supported by a number of official level sub-groups, which are as follows: • Digital, Connectivity and Transport; • Enterprise, Agriculture and Innovation; and • Social Infrastructure. These sub-group meetings have climate action as a cross cutting theme, and provide a further forum for an open and constructive discussion between key officials in Departments and the EIB. Further sub-group meetings will take place in 2022.
Action 78Implement the National Planning Framework
Q4 2021 measure: Deliver National Policy Objectives for compact growth with regard to
targets for development within the existing built footprint of settlements, supported by the
Project Ireland 2040 funds, and policy measures that integrate land use and transport
planning in terms of the spatial patterns, urban forms of development and sustainable
mode share and to accelerate transition to a low carbon and climate resilient society
Responsible body: DHLGH
Status: Complete
Update: The ongoing implementation of the National Planning Framework is undertaken at a policy level vis a vis the adoption of the three Regional Spatial and Economic Strategies and the review cycle of the city and county development plans of the 31 Local Authorities. In addition, the supporting funding envelopes made available through the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund and the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund also enable the implementation of the National Planning Framework, specifically where projects align with the National Strategic Objectives of the National Planning Framework which include compact growth, sustainable mobility and Transition to a Low Carbon and Climate Resilient Society.
Action 78Implement the National Planning Framework
Q4 2021 measure: Provide that LAs consider GHG emissions, in the context of LA Climate
Action Plan as part of the City/County Development Plan process
Responsible body: DHLGH
Status: Delayed
Update: A draft of the Development Plan Guidelines was published in August 2021 and the public consultation period ended on 8 October 2021. DHLGH is in the process of reviewing all public submissions received and finalising the draft, including updates to reflect recent changes to national policy. This review will inform the final version of the Guidelines which will be sent to the Minister and published in Q2 2022.
Action 78Implement the National Planning Framework
Q4 2021 measure: Establish a working group to examine implementation of climate
actions in the National Planning Framework
Responsible body: DHLGH
Status: Delayed
Update: DHLGH is currently progressing a number of competing priorities, including implementing the Housing for All strategy in line with commitments in the Programme for Government, legislative amendments and developing Section 28 Ministerial Guidelines. As these priorities are at an advanced stage, it is envisaged that there will be capacity in Q2 2022 to establish the working group as per the action.
Action 78Implement the National Planning Framework
Q4 2021 measure: Develop state assets database to assist identification of relevant sites
to optimise the use of relevant public land
Responsible body: LDA
Status: Complete
Update: Database published in Land Development Agency website November 2021.

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Action 78Implement the National Planning Framework
Q4 2021 measure: Implement a strategic approach to town centre regeneration by utilising
existing buildings and unused lands for new development and promote residential
occupancy in our rural towns and villages using the National Planning Framework as a
template
Responsible body: DHLGH
Status: Complete
Update: The Town Centre First policy was launched on 4 February 2022. Further information is available to view at: https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/473d3-town-centre- first-policy/
Action 79Develop and include a module on climate change into the Guidelines for the development of new Local Economic and Community Plans (LECPs)
Q4 2021 measure: Develop and publish LECPs guidelines that will include climate action
in collaboration with relevant stakeholders
Responsible body: DRCD
Status: Complete
Update: Guidelines published in November 2021.
Action 80Support, monitor and assess Local Authority Climate Action
Q4 2021 measure: Conduct a review of Strategic Policy Committees (SPCs) to consider
establishment of climate action SPCs in each Local Authority
Responsible body: DHLGH
Status: Delayed
Update: The review of Strategic Policy Committees will commence during 2022 as soon as resources and competing priorities allow. In the meantime, there is no impediment to local authorities establishing climate action Strategic Policy Committees.

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Action 80Support, monitor and assess Local Authority Climate Action
Q4 2021 measure: Each Local Authority will identify and develop plans for one
“Decarbonising Zone”
Responsible body: DHLGH
Status: Delayed
Update: Identification of Decarbonising Zones is materially complete for 30 of 31 Local Authority Decarbonising Zones. The development of plans awaits the development of statutory guidelines for Local Authority Climate Action Plans in Q4 2022 as set out in the Climate Action Amendment Act 2021 and Action 80e of CAP 2021.
Action 82Strengthen our delivery of public funding for basic and applied research to meet climate action objectives
Q4 2021 measure: Research potential for Blue Carbon Sequestration
Responsible body: Marine Institute
Status: Complete
Update: Atmospheric CO2 is rising globally. Opportunities for reducing this trend include energy sector adjustments and management of both land and ocean resources. Improved management of coastal and oceanic ecosystems is therefore poised to contribute to, and enhance, climate mitigation and adaptation. This report outlines the emergence of blue carbon as a concept for the integration of coastal carbon dynamics into policy and management frameworks and defines blue carbon ecosystems. It also emphasises the importance of marine carbon sequestration and highlights its potential role in climate adaptation. The critical knowledge gaps and future research priorities are outlined, so that Ireland can advance the pace of scientific discovery whilst harnessing the climate change potential of its coastal and marine environment. The full report is available at: https://oar.marine.ie/handle/10793/1685.

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Action 82Strengthen our delivery of public funding for basic and applied research to meet climate action objectives
Q1 2022 measure: Articulate and support co-ordination and collaboration of climaterelated
research across relevant Government Departments and Agencies in the next national
Research and Innovation Strategy
Responsible body: DFHERIS
Status: Delayed
Update: Preparation of the next national Research and Innovation (R&I) Strategy to 2030 is at the final stages and will be before Cabinet for decision in April. The Strategy and the first Work Programme will then be published. A key ambition of the new national R&I Strategy is to maximise the impact of R&I on our economy, society and the environment, of which climate change is a key element. New governance structures will be established to ensure not only that R&I is positioned as a key enabler of addressing national priorities, climate change being one of the key ones, but that the R&I system is strenghtened and supported to optimise the contribution of R&I as effectively and efficiently as possible.
Action 84Continue to provide research funding and to coordinate national
initiatives for the delivery and continuous improvement of national
predictive capability and capacity in the areas of weather, climate, and
hydrology
Q1 2022 measure: Initiate the coordination of Ireland’s national scientific and technical
engagement with the European Commission’s DestinE activity in consultation with
stakeholders
Responsible body: DHLGH - Met Éireann
Status: Complete
Update: Kick-off meeting held in March 2022.
Action 84Continue to provide research funding and to coordinate national
initiatives for the delivery and continuous improvement of national
predictive capability and capacity in the areas of weather, climate, and
hydrology
Q1 2022 measure: Initiate the coordination of Ireland’s National Framework for Climate
Services (NFCS) in consultation with stakeholders
Responsible body: DHLGH - Met Éireann
Status: Delayed
Update: Kick-off meeting in planning for Q2 2022.

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Action 84Continue to provide research funding and to coordinate national
initiatives for the delivery and continuous improvement of national
predictive capability and capacity in the areas of weather, climate, and
hydrology
Q1 2022 measure: Implement the coordination of Ireland’s WMO Integrated Global
Observing System (WIGOS) activities
Responsible body: DHLGH - Met Éireann
Status: Delayed
Update: A list of potential members/contacts has been drafted and the first member of the committee has been recruited from the County and City Management Association. Invitation letters are being finalised and will be sent this month.
Action 85Implement and monitor the National Remote Work Strategy to ensure optimal alignment with climate action objectives
Q4 2021 measure: Monitor progress of the actions contained in the National Remote Work
strategy
Responsible body: DETE
Status: Complete
Update: Progress on actions has been reported to the Remote Work Strategy InterDepartmental Group over the course of 2021.
Action 85Implement and monitor the National Remote Work Strategy to ensure optimal alignment with climate action objectives
Q4 2021 measure: Raise awareness of the hub facilities and the beneficial network effects
of the hub ecosystem to support remote working across Ireland
Responsible body: DRCD
Status: Complete
Update: Campaign was delayed due to Covid-19 until Q1 2022. National Marketing Campaign launched on 21 February 2022. It will run across a series of national and regional newspapers, outdoor advertising and national and local radio stations as well as across various social media platforms until the end of April.

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Action 88Improve evidence base for sustainable tourism
Q4 2021 measure: Utilise Destination Experience Development Plans to measure
environmental impacts at key tourism destinations
Responsible body: Fáilte Ireland
Status: Complete
Update: As part of the Strategic Environmental Assessment process of each Destination Experience Development Plan, a suite of mitigatory actions are developed to ensure that any negative environmental impacts are reduced or eliminated at plan implementation stage. These include: • The requirement to establish the status of the Plan and its interrelationship with Statutory Decision making and consent-granting frameworks. • Integrating the requirements for Environmental Compliance into the Plan with particular emphasis on requirements for lower-tier environmental assessment, the County Development Plan, the Climate Action Plan 2019, visitor management, consideration for infrastructural capacity and green infrastructure and eco system services. • Development and execution of an Environmental Monitoring Programme for the Plans during implementation and operation; • Monitoring is based around indicators that allow quantitative measures of trends and progress over time relating to the Strategic Environmental Objectives. • A variety of sources of information is being used to run the programme. • Appendix 1 of the plans sets out the indicators that will be used in the operation of the environmental monitoring programme.
Action 88Improve evidence base for sustainable tourism
Q1 2022 measure: Commence a process to establish a benchmark CO2 value for Irish
Tourism
Responsible body: Fáilte Ireland
Status: Complete
Update: The process to establish benchmark has been identified and work will continue to complete this process through 2022. An appropriate carbon footprint calculator for the tourism industry has been identified along with a benchmarking organisation and a destination-wide approach, selected using specific criteria evaluation. Following on from this, a framework for developing a comprehensive carbon footprint of Irish tourism and implementing sector-specific benchmarks has been undertaken. The overarching approach will be guided by the Auckland, New Zealand model. This approach provides a structure for implementing a top-down paired with bottom-up approach that fulfils the objectives of Fáilte Ireland to measure the carbon footprint at the national and enterprise level.

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Action 88Improve evidence base for sustainable tourism
Q1 2022 measure: Develop a mechanism that allows Industry to report on carbon
reduction and off-setting measures
Responsible body: Fáilte Ireland
Status: Complete
Update: The method of reporting will be linked to the use of Climate Toolkit 4 Business, as identified under action 88b as the most suitable enterprise-level tool available.
Action 89Minimise negative environmental impact of tourism
Q4 2021 measure: Carry out a feasibility study on the infrastructure required to be able to
travel and tour Ireland’s experience regions by sustainable modes of transport
Responsible body: Fáilte Ireland
Status: Delayed
Update: This was delayed due to resourcing commitments on other projects which were being finalised in 2021. The study has commenced and will be completed in April 2022.
Action 89Minimise negative environmental impact of tourism
Q1 2022 measure: Initiate the development of carbon calculators which will allow tourists
and tourism businesses to evaluate the impact of their carbon footprint on the environment
Responsible body: Fáilte Ireland
Status: Complete
Update: The development process is underway to enable tourists and tourism businesses to evaluate the impact of their carbon footprint on the environment. It is envisaged that the recently launched Climate Toolkit 4 Business will be utilised for this purpose. This tool allows for sector-specific emissions profiles to be measured at the enterprise level for the Irish tourism sector. By using the top down and bottom up methodology of carbon footprinting, the detailed information can be applied to multiple aspects of the tourism system. Based on the results of carbon footprinting, emissions profiles for various tourist activities and attractions can be understood at the national level as well as enterprise level. When applied to characteristics of tourist personas, it is possible to build average emissions profiles of tourists based on the most probable visit a tourist type would have. This can be seen by disaggregating emissions across their source locations and activities. For example, if a theoretical persona represented a European international visitor that arrives by medium-haul flight, stays 4 nights in a 3-star hotel, travels by coach within the destination and eats at fine dining restaurants; it would be possible to generate a normal range of emissions that could be expected for that tourist persona. In this way, Fáilte Ireland and Tourism Ireland would have a better understanding of the environmental impacts of visitor types and exactly how it is tied to specific activities and locations.

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Action 89Minimise negative environmental impact of tourism
Q1 2022 measure: Undertake research and analysis to investigate options for tourists
within Ireland, to minimise and offset their carbon emissions
Responsible body: Fáilte Ireland
Status: Delayed
Update: This was delayed due to resourcing commitments on other projects which were being finalised in 2021/2022. Work completed under Action 88 will be developed into typical Tourist personas to allow Tourists to complete the emissions associated with a range of options including accommodation, travel and destination choices. Delivery Date expected: Q4 2022
Action 90Grow the awareness and understanding of sustainability in tourism
Q4 2021 measure: Incorporate the guiding principles for sustainable tourism development
in business support programmes
Responsible body: Fáilte Ireland
Status: Delayed
Update: Support programmes at the business level will be delivered later in 2022 with a number of supports currently under development, including a Carbon Calculator, a Climate Action Playbook, and an in-depth Research repository. While extensive work was undertaken in 2021 with regard to this action, it was considered that this action was very much aligned to Fáilte Ireland’s work to identify a benchmark CO2 value and appropriate carbon calculator, which has recently been completed. Delivery Date expected: Q3 2022.
Action 98Increase nature connectedness and promote pro-environmental behaviours by developing outdoor recreation
Q4 2021 measure: Raise awareness of responsible outdoor recreation and minimise its
impact on nature through the Leave no Trace Programme
Responsible body: Sport Ireland
Status: Complete
Update: In 2021, the Leave No Trace communications campaign promoted messaging on sustainable, responsible behaviours in the outdoors. This action will be continued in 2022.

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International

Action 446Place climate action, especially for Least Developed Countries and
Small Island Developing States, at the heart of all development
cooperation and policy partnerships, as well as our engagement in
multilateral processes
Q4 2021 measure: Ensure climate action, especially for Least Developed Countries and
Small Island Developing States, is reflected in Ireland’s bilateral and multilateral funding
channels
Responsible body: DFA
Status: Complete
Update: Climate Action for Least Developed Countries and Small Island Developing States is a clear focus for Ireland’s international climate finance and diplomacy. For example, Ireland is a founding member of the Champions Group, Ireland announced €2.1 million in funding for ocean initiatives at COP26 and Ireland has supported the Climate Security Mechanism in 2021.
Action 448Double, at least, the percentage of ODA spending on climate finance by 2030, and report on our expenditure each year
Q4 2021 measure: Annual reports produced on international Climate Finance expenditure
(including ODA) across Government Departments
Responsible body: DFA
Status: Complete
Update: Report produced and completed on international Climate Finance expenditure (including ODA) across Government Departments for 2020.
Action 448Double, at least, the percentage of ODA spending on climate finance by 2030, and report on our expenditure each year
Q1 2022 measure: Climate Finance Roadmap developed in collaboration with other
Departments
Responsible body: DFA
Status: Delayed
Update: Advanced draft of the Climate Finance Roadmap has been completed. The document will be finalised in Q2 with publication also to take place in this period.

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Adaptation

Action 455Review National Adaptation Framework
Q1 2022 measure: Public Consultation on existing National Adaptation Framework
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Delayed
Update: Key Stakeholders were consulted from December 2021 to mid-February 2022. A public consultation document is currently pending Ministerial approval. Launch now expected by mid-April.
Action 457Further develop Ireland’s national climate change risk assessment
capacity to identify the priority physical risks of climate change to
Ireland
Q1 2022 measure: Establishment of a Steering Group to scope out the requirements of a
national climate change risk assessment
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Complete
Update: Steering Group established which met on 14 March, 2022, comprising officials from DECC, EPA and academics.
Action 458Ensure that six-yearly review of the Flood Risk Management Plans will
be informed by the most up-to-date research and projections of climate
change on flooding and flood risk; and include other sector-led
adaptation measures being implemented under the National Adaptation
Framework
Q4 2021 measure: Review and update the existing Flood Risk Management Plans, and
progress in implementation of the Sectoral Adaptation Plans and the Local Adaptation
Strategies
Responsible body: OPW
Status: Complete
Update: The OPW completed a review of the Flood Risk Manangement Plans (FRMPs) in December 2021, in line with the requirements of the EU ‘Floods’ Directive, and have published the review report. The review concluded that the FRMPs published in 2018 remain valid, and so the preparation of updated or new Plans is not required at this time.

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Action 460Undertake a Scheme Adaptation Plan during the detailed development
of new flood relief schemes, setting out how climate change has been
taken into account during the design and construction, and what
adaptation measures might be needed into the future
Q4 2021 measure: Complete a pilot Scheme Adaptation Plan for a new flood relief
scheme, including a review of national and international best practice, to inform the
preparation of a Guidance Note to project teams
Responsible body: OPW
Status: Delayed
Update: A pilot Scheme Climate Change Adaptation Plan was completed for the proposed Midleton Flood Relief Scheme in Q1 2022. The report on the lessons and recommendations from the pilot is due in Q2 2022.
Action 462Provide for the inclusion of potential increases in flood damages as part of the economic cost-benefit analysis for future flood relief schemes
Q4 2021 measure: Complete an independent review of the existing economic appraisal of
Flood Relief Schemes, including a review of the approach to the consideration of damages
due to Climate Change
Responsible body: OPW
Status: Complete
Update: An independent review of the economic appraisal of flood relief schemes was completed in 2021, setting out a series of recommendations including provision for increased damages due to climate change impacts in the appraisal process.
Action 463Ensure that potential future flood information is obtained and/or
generated through a Flood Risk Assessment that is then used to inform
suitable adaptation requirements, within the planning and development
management processes, in line with the Guidelines
Q4 2021 measure: Provide training to planning authorities on the consideration of Flood
Risk Management and climate change impacts via the Local Authority Climate Action
Training Programme
Responsible body: OPW
Status: Complete
Update: The OPW, working in collaboration with the Climate Action Regional Offices and other partners, delivered an interactive, virtual training course on “An Introduction to Flood Risk Management” in Q4 2021.

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Action 464Continue to enhance knowledge and capacity with regards to
Naturebased Catchment Management Solutions, and assess their
potential to be part of future flood relief schemes
Q4 2021 measure: Complete a sample NbCMS assessment to identify and map
opportunities as part of a Flood Relief Scheme
Responsible body: OPW
Status: Complete
Update: A sample Nature-based Catchment Management Solutions (NbCMS) assessment has been undertaken for the proposed Ballina Flood Relief Scheme (FRS), including the preparation of maps presenting the outcome of the assessments.
Action 468Continue to develop flood forecasting capability, including the development of coastal and marine monitoring and predictive capability
Q1 2022 measure: Continue to develop fluvial (river) flood forecasting capability in the
context of increased flooding risk related to climate change
Responsible body: DHLGH - Met Éireann
Status: Complete
Update: The National fluvial flood forecast models have been built using all available observations. Some of the catchment models require additional data to calibrate the model to a higher standard. Severe Weather and Flood Liaison Manager staff have been nominated by all Local Authorities and monthly meetings have taken place as well as some training on both Weather and Flood Forecasting Products.
Action 470Continue to improve Ireland’s national climate monitoring capabilities
through the delivery of advanced, sustainable, and long-term, climate
and environmental monitoring programmes
Q1 2022 measure: Continue the participation in international monitoring programmes such
as WMO’s Global Atmospheric Watch and the European Monitoring and Evaluation
Programme
Responsible body: DHLGH - Met Éireann
Status: Complete
Update: Research project to review Met Éireann’s environmental monitoring processes and best-practices begun. Participation in Global Atmospheric Watch and European Monitoring and Evaluation Programme ongoing. Intercomparison of automatic SO2, Nox samplers with manual air-filter sampling system underway.

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Action 471Continue to support National Emergency Management during extreme weather events
Q1 2022 measure: Continue to develop impact-based decision-making products and
services for weather events in general and extreme weather events
Responsible body: DHLGH - Met Éireann
Status: Complete
Update: Met Éireann’s impact-based forecasting plans have been presented to the severe weather and flood liaison manager of each Local Authority. It is now part of the agreed remit of the severe weather and flood liaison manager to provide Met Éireann with feedback on local impacts of severe weather post-event. A number of one-to-one meetings have been held with important stakeholders in order to discuss the specific impacts of severe weather on their operations (e.g. Irish Coast Guard, CHC Helicopters, TII, ESB). A series of flow charts for specific hazards have been created in order to facilitate the creation of impact-based warnings by forecasters. These are linked to a specific set of impact statements for the hazards Met Éireann issues warnings for. These impact statements now allow Met Éireann’s forecasters to communicate the likely impacts related to the hazard in question. These are updated and modified using the two-way feedback loop established with stakeholders. The development of a multi-hazard impact based warning system for Ireland through the ANYWHERE project has begun. This will include the ability to create risk forecasts based on specific vulnerability information. National Directorate for Fire & Emergency Management presentations now take place over WebEx which has allowed for a more direct line for stakeholder feedback. A feedback survey, focusing on weather related impacts, was circulated to members of the National Emergency Coordination Group post Storm Barra and Storm Eunice. It is envisaged that this survey will be a regular feature of all high-impact weather post-event analyses. An ensembles page, including 6-hourly and 24-hourly precipitation probability maps and wind and gust probability maps is now available on www.met.ie. This contributes to step 471b also as members of the public can now directly follow the likelihood of high-impact weather events.
Action 471Continue to support National Emergency Management during extreme weather events
Q1 2022 measure: Continue to improve the communication and availability of
dissemination products during extreme weather events, e.g., website, social media,
weather warnings
Responsible body: DHLGH - Met Éireann
Status: Complete
Update: See 471a + During severe weather the Met Éireann communications team continue to provide up to date weather information in the form of news stories, meteorologist commentaries, social media, as well as warnings on the Met Éireann website.
Action 472Publish a new and strengthened River Basin Management Plan for the period 2022-2027
Q1 2022 measure: Engagement with Key Stakeholders
Responsible body: DHLGH
Status: Complete
Update: Following the launch of the public consultation on the draft River Basin Management Plan in September 2021, DHLGH have continued to engage with various stakeholders as part of the consultation process. This included the hosting of a virtual stakeholder engagement event on 17 January 2022 that saw some 270 people in attendance. A series of engagements with An Fóram Uisce – The Water Forum - to discuss key issues affecting water quality, along with a dedicated social media campaign on the draft River Basin Management Plan has also taken place. On the close of the public consultation (31 March 2022) DHLGH had received approximately 1,400 submissions on the draft plan.
Action 473Explore options for the delivery of a National Implementation Strategy
for Nature-Based Solutions to the Management of Rainwater and
Surface Water Runoff in Urban Areas
Q4 2021 measure: Drafting of scoping document based on views of stakeholders obtained
and detailed research
Responsible body: DHLGH
Status: Complete
Update: The scoping exercise saw engagement with: • Government Departments (DHLGH, DoT; DRCD/DECC); • Statutory agencies (OPW, EPA, NPWS, IFI, NTA, TII, Irish Water and OPR); • Representative groups (Engineers Ireland, Royal Institute of Architects in Ireland, Royal Town Planning Institute, Irish Planning Institute, Association of Consulting Engineers Ireland and Irish Landscape Institute); and • Local authorities (31 no.). The final draft of the scoping document, highlighting various issues and proposing solutions to the identified constraints, was submitted by the project lead to the Department for consideration and approval in Q4 2021.

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Action 473Explore options for the delivery of a National Implementation Strategy
for Nature-Based Solutions to the Management of Rainwater and
Surface Water Runoff in Urban Areas
Q4 2021 measure: Publication of the scope for the delivery of a National Implementation
Strategy through the River Basin Management Plan making process
Responsible body: DHLGH
Status: Complete
Update: Finalised on 5 October 2021, the document highlights the various issues and proposes solutions to the identified constraints.
Action 474Develop interim guidance on best practice for Solutions to the Management of Rainwater and Surface Water Runoff in Urban Areas
Q4 2021 measure: Drafting of interim guidance based on views of key stakeholders
obtained and further research undertaken
Responsible body: DHLGH
Status: Complete
Update: Following engagement with stakeholders, a Best Practice Interim Guidance Document was prepared by DHLGH. This is a high-level guidance document for all of those whose work has potential to impact on the urban environment. It identifies the need for a significant change in the way we plan, design, build and maintain our urban areas.
Action 474Develop interim guidance on best practice for Solutions to the Management of Rainwater and Surface Water Runoff in Urban Areas
Q4 2021 measure: Publication of interim guidance on best practice for Nature based
Solutions to the Management of Rainwater and Surface Water Runoff in Urban Areas
Responsible body: DHLGH
Status: Complete
Update: Document launched by Minister Noonan at a webinar on Nature Based Surface Water Management and Urban Planning on 30 November 2021. Please see: https://lawaters.ie/nature-based-suds/

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Action 476Adopt the four regional plans under Irish Water’s National Water Resources Framework Plan
Q4 2021 measure: Public consultation on the draft Regional Water Resources Plan:
Eastern and Midlands
Responsible body: Irish Water
Status: Complete
Update: On 14 December 2021, Irish Water launched the Statutory public consultation on the draft Regional Water Resources Plan for the Eastern and Midlands region. This consultation will close on 8 April 2022.
Action 477Develop clear leadership across the health sector
Q4 2021 measure: Continued strong public health participation in national Adaptation and
Mitigation teams and in Government Task Force (GTF) on Emergency Planning
Responsible body: D/Health
Status: Complete
Update: Health considerations represented in national adaptation, mitigation and GFT structures as well as national delegation to UNFCCC.
Action 477Develop clear leadership across the health sector
Q4 2021 measure: Future proofing health investment including major infrastructure
projects to prevent costly maladaptation
Responsible body: D/Health
Status: Complete
Update: Capital expenditure by Department of Health is carried out in line with the Public Spending Code (which increasingly includes, and accounts for, climate considerations), with the majority relating to expenditure by the Health Service Executive (HSE). Annual Capital Plans set out capital projects, proposed by the HSE National Capital and Property Steering Committee and prioritised across a number of criteria including climate action, which will advance in any given year in line with the funding available. All infrastructural requirements across the HSE are appraised on an ongoing basis to inform the development of the Capital Plan.

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Action 477Develop clear leadership across the health sector
Q4 2021 measure: Climate change risks to feature in organisational risk registers
Responsible body: D/Health
Status: Complete
Update: The Department of Health recently established a new Departmental Corporate Governance Committee, consisting of Management Board members and the Chief Operations Officer. This Committee is responsible for ensuring compliance with the Department’s corporate obligations, including those relating to Risk Management. The Committee will provide a regular forum for discussion of the Department’s Risk Management framework, in particular the Corporate and Divisional level Risk Registers, with a focus on the top-rated risks. The Corporate Governance Committee is supported by the Risk Working Group, which comprises members of the Corporate Operations Office and divisional risk coordinators, representing all divisions. The Group provides an opportunity to disseminate information and discuss risk items common to all divisions, for example those relating to procurement, Information and Communications Technology and climate change obligations. The Department’s Climate Change Unit is represented on the Risk Working Group. The Working Group will provide reports and recommendations to the Corporate Governance Committee. While climate change is understood as a corporate risk, the identification and mitigation of climate-related risks at both corporate and divisional levels will be taken forward on an ongoing basis.
Action 478Develop a better understanding of the health impacts of climate change in Ireland
Q4 2021 measure: Assessment of collaboration with research organisations and academic
institutions in respect of investigation of relevant health impacts
Responsible body: D/Health
Status: Complete
Update: The Research Services Unit carried out a literature review of the health impacts of climate change and the health benefits of climate action during the development of the 2019 Sectoral Adaptation Plan. This will be taken forward during 2022 through the development of a research prioritisation statement guiding further research by the Health Research Board. This will identify climate change concerns as an area of interest.

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Action 478Develop a better understanding of the health impacts of climate change in Ireland
Q4 2021 measure: Convene early stakeholder consultation with relevant research
organisations to ensure a shared focus on common sectoral priorities and to address
research gaps
Responsible body: D/Health
Status: Complete
Update: Research Services Unit of Department of Health briefed on climate considerations and is a member of cross-sectoral Research and Modelling Subgroup.
Action 479Ensure effective health service planning for climate resilience
Q4 2021 measure: Assess adequacy of mechanisms for Public Health Risk Assessments
and Public Health Medical Advice – both in planning and during acute events
Responsible body: D/Health
Status: Complete
Update: The HSE has developed a suite of public health advice for a range of extreme weather events. For example, issues associated with flooding can be found at https://www.hse.ie/eng/services/list/5/publichealth/publichealthdepts/env/flooding.pdf. The development of heat wave guidance in 2022, together with the greater prioritisation of climate action within the HSE, provides an opportunity to draw together this guidance, along with other climate-related health information, in a coherent manner.
Action 480Identify and build collaborative relationships with key stakeholders to guide implementation of health-related climate policies
Q1 2022 measure: Hold an early stakeholder consultation to focus on practical actions for
next Climate Action Plan
Responsible body: D/Health
Status: Complete
Update: The Department of Health has met with the 17 bodies under its aegis and begun the process of identifying the capacity of each to engage on climate-related issues and develop new actions for the next Climate Action Plan. This will be further developed through the rollout of the Climate Action Unit Mandate during 2022.

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Action 480Identify and build collaborative relationships with key stakeholders to guide implementation of health-related climate policies
Q1 2022 measure: Multi-level engagement with Climate Action Regional Offices (CAROs)
Responsible body: D/Health
Status: Complete
Update: The Department of Health met with CAROs and initiated identification of local and regional actions with avenues for health sector input.
Action 481Develop a new public health heat wave plan and seek to ensure more uniform system-wide planning for severe weather
Q4 2021 measure: Assessment of state of play in development of a new public health heat
wave plan
Responsible body: D/Health
Status: Complete
Update: The Department of Health and HSE have engaged on adequacy of existing guidance in respect of heatwaves; development of a heatwave plan identified as a priority deliverable in 2022.
Action 482Conduct a major survey of health infrastructure resilience to severe
weather events: wind events, heat waves, flooding, and extreme cold
snaps
Q4 2021 measure: Assessment of adequacy of most recent survey of health infrastructure
resilience to determine next steps
Responsible body: D/Health
Status: Complete
Update: The resilience of health infrastructure to the impacts of climate change is considered on a regular basis in the context of the development of annual capital plans which approve capital works by the Health Service Executive. The HSE National Capital and Property Steering Committee includes these considerations in identifying priority areas for expenditure. Accordingly it is considered unnecessary to duplicate this process for an additional survey as the methodology applied takes account of the issues which would be considered.
Action 483Assess implementation of the National Skin Cancer Prevention Plan with focus on actions relevant to climate change
Q4 2021 measure: Assessment to determine next steps
Responsible body: D/Health
Status: Complete
Update: National Skin Cancer Prevention Plan 2019-2022 launched May 2019; Most recent implementation review published December 2021.
Action 484Assess the adequacy of UV-related cancer registration and epidemiology based on emerging climate change requirements
Q4 2021 measure: Assessment to determine next steps
Responsible body: D/Health
Status: Complete
Update: The Department of Health met with National Cancer Registry Ireland and mapped out scope and adequacy of assessments. Outcomes to inform 2022 work programme
Action 487Undertake climate change adaptation research in the electricity and gas networks sector
Q4 2021 measure: Identify energy specific climate research required
Responsible body: SEAI
Status: Delayed
Update: Designing topics for inclusion to 2022 Research Development and Demonstration Call, with Eirgrid, ESB and others
Action 488Continue to build on adaptation measures in the electricity and gas networks sector already in place
Q1 2022 measure: Identify measures that are working well in other jurisdictions and
assess whether they can also be deployed in Ireland
Responsible body: Energy network companies, private generators & agencies
Status: Delayed
Update: Action currently delayed due to staffing issues. Consultant support is being sought in the short term.

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Action 489Mainstream climate change adaptation into general energy policy, and strategic objectives to 2050
Q1 2022 measure: Assess level of climate change adaptation in energy policy and make
recommendations, as appropriate
Responsible body: DECC
Status: Delayed
Update: The section dealing with this action remains unstaffed at the moment due to the structural changes within the energy department. This action will be updated for Q2.
Action 490Harmonise the collection of baseline data on the costs to business and
the public arising from past extreme weather events in the electricity
and gas networks sector
Q1 2022 measure: Develop justification criteria for mitigation measures by utilities based
on avoided costs to wider economy from such mitigation measures
Responsible body: EPA
Status: Delayed
Update: Technical Advisory function not yet in place as there is no one appointed to this section.

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