On April 2–3, 2025, climate action teams from all 31 Irish local authorities convened in Wexford for a pivotal two-day event marking the rollout of €29 million in Phase 3 funding for Local Authority Climate Action Plans (LA CAPs). This funding, administered by the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications (DECC), supports the implementation phase of the national climate strategy, which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 51% by 2030.
Strengthening Local Capacity
Since 2022, each local authority has appointed two dedicated climate staff—a Climate Action Coordinator and Officer—to oversee and drive the delivery of their LA CAPs. These roles are pivotal in managing resources, coordinating mitigation and adaptation efforts, and fostering climate awareness at the local level. The Phase 3 funding, covering the period from November 2023 to December 2028, enables these specialists to accelerate the implementation of climate actions tailored to local needs.
Celebrating Progress and Sharing Knowledge
The Wexford event served as a platform to celebrate the first year of action under the LA CAPs. Participants engaged in site visits to local climate projects, such as Ballyhealy Beach, Tullabeg Solar Farm, and Glynn Barntown GAA Club, to exchange insights and best practices. The event also featured presentations on national climate policy and local implementation strategies, reinforcing the collaborative approach essential for achieving Ireland’s climate goals.
Local Impact in Wexford
Wexford County Council has been proactive in climate action, adopting its Climate Action Plan for 2024–2029 in February 2024. The plan outlines strategies to enhance climate resilience, increase energy efficiency, and reduce emissions across the county’s assets and services. A key component is the establishment of Decarbonising Zones (DZs), which act as testbeds for innovative climate solutions. For instance, Enniscorthy has been designated as a DZ, focusing on implementing and showcasing decarbonisation measures.
Additionally, Wexford has allocated €669,000 to 16 community groups under the Community Climate Action Programme. These projects encompass a range of initiatives, including solar panel installations, energy-efficient lighting upgrades, and biodiversity enhancements, all aimed at fostering sustainable communities.
National Strategy and Future Outlook
The LA CAPs are integral to translating national climate policy into local action. Each plan includes a Baseline Emissions Inventory, a Climate Change Risk Assessment, and the designation of a Decarbonising Zone. These elements ensure that local authorities address both mitigation and adaptation measures effectively. With the continued support of the DECC and the Climate Action Regional Offices (CAROs), local authorities are well-positioned to lead the way in Ireland’s climate transition.
As Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications, Eamon Ryan, emphasized in a 2023 announcement, “Delivering on our climate ambition will only work if we all come together in a strengthened social contract for climate action, working towards real solutions that work for people, that work for communities, and that are meaningful, inclusive, fair and accessible” .
The Wexford event exemplifies the collaborative efforts underway across Ireland to implement impactful climate actions at the local level, contributing significantly to the nation’s overarching climate objectives.
