Irish greenhouse gas emissions estimated to be 6% lower in 2020
Ireland’s greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) are estimated to have fallen by 6% overall in 2020 due to the impact of Covid-19 restrictions, according to a new report.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) have jointly released an analysis of the impact of Covid-19 restrictions on GHG emissions in 2020.
The estimates show a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions of almost 6% in 2020 compared to 2019.
The estimates are based on monthly indicator data, allowing for earlier estimation – compared to the more comprehensive annual data used by the EPA to produce Ireland’s GHG Inventory, the authorities say.
There were significant changes in energy-related emissions, particularly transport and residential sector emissions, as a result of new living and work practices brought about by Covid-19.
The overall reduction is comparable to that seen following the global financial crisis. However, the economic rebound from the Covid-19 crisis is estimated to bring emissions back to previous levels, unless additional action is taken, the authorities say.
Commenting on the figures Laura Burke, director general of the EPA, said:
“While these early estimates show a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions for 2020 as a result of Covid restrictions, this level of emission reductions, at a minimum, will be required annually.
Ireland needs a ‘green recovery’ to rebuild our economy, generate new jobs and respond to climate change.
As we emerge from the global pandemic, a ‘green’ stimulus and implementation of ambitious policies and measures can deliver Ireland’s current and future commitments to a climate-neutral economy and climate-resilient society by 2050.
The emissions reductions in 2020 must be built on to achieve continual, substantial, year-on-year reductions, making the 2020s the decade of climate action.’
Commenting, William Walsh, CEO of the SEAI, said: “The Programme for Government and the Climate Action Plan are very clear on the scale of ambition necessary to achieve Ireland’s clean energy transition.
This will require a national conversation to find solutions and innovate, changing the way we live, work and rebuild our economy to give us a chance of achieving our collective mission.
“The investment needed in all sectors to address the climate crisis provides tremendous opportunities for warmer and cheaper to run homes and businesses, a growth in green jobs in Ireland, cleaner air in our towns and cities and more open spaces for us all to enjoy.”
