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Issued by: Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment
The Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment is inviting organisations and community groups across Ireland to submit Expressions of Interest to participate in the 2025–2026 Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Champions Programme.
As we pass the midpoint of the 2030 Agenda, this programme offers a vital platform for organisations to lead by example in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Selected SDG Champions will play an advocacy and demonstration role—showcasing how tangible actions, across sectors and at all levels of society, can contribute to a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable world.
About the SDG Champions Programme
Launched in 2019, the SDG Champions Programme was created to highlight best practice examples of SDG implementation and to raise public awareness of how everyone—government, civil society, private sector, and individuals—can play a role in achieving sustainable development.
The programme supports Strategic Objective 3 of Ireland’s Second National Implementation Plan for the SDGs (2022–2024)—“Greater Partnerships for the Goals”—and is one of the core mechanisms to promote partnerships and collaboration in achieving the 17 interlinked SDGs.
Who Can Apply?
The Department welcomes applications from:
- Public bodies
- Private sector companies
- Academic and research institutions
- Local authorities
- Community and voluntary organisations
- Youth groups and educational institutions
- Environmental and social justice initiatives
Previous Champions have included a diverse mix of actors, such as ALDI Ireland, Mayo County Council, Junk Kouture, Change Clothes Crumlin, Kinvara Tidy Towns, and University College Dublin, each contributing unique perspectives and local solutions aligned with the global goals.
What Does an SDG Champion Do?
SDG Champions will:
- Act as advocates for the 2030 Agenda across their networks and communities
- Share best practices and case studies demonstrating how their work aligns with the SDGs
- Inspire wider action and engagement with the Goals at local and national levels
- Help raise awareness of the SDGs through outreach, education, and communication initiatives
Why Now?
Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment, Darragh O’Brien TD, emphasized the urgency of accelerated action:
“Having now passed the midpoint of Agenda 2030, we must intensify our efforts to meet the SDGs in the face of extraordinary global challenges—from climate change and pollution to biodiversity loss, war, and pandemic recovery. The SDG Champions Programme allows a wide range of Irish organisations to showcase what’s possible and to inspire change by example. We must ensure no one is left behind.”
The SDG framework—universal, indivisible, and interconnected—offers a blueprint for global sustainability. Its success depends on proactive, collective effort across all sectors and levels of society.
How to Apply
Applications to become an SDG Champion may be submitted in written or video format.
- Deadline: 5:00 PM on Wednesday, 30 July 2025
- Application Details: Available on the Department’s official website
Successful applicants will be appointed as SDG Champions for a two-year term (2025–2026) and will receive support and recognition from the Department in fulfilling their ambassadorial role.
Context: The 2030 Agenda and Ireland’s Commitment
The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, adopted at the United Nations in 2015, aims to “end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity for all.” The 17 SDGs address core issues including education, health, gender equality, clean energy, economic opportunity, climate action, and peaceful, inclusive societies.
Ireland played a leadership role in negotiating the 2030 Agenda alongside Kenya and has adopted a whole-of-government approach to SDG implementation. The Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment holds primary responsibility for coordination, with oversight provided at Cabinet level.
In 2024, the global Summit of the Future adopted the Pact for the Future, reinforcing the role of partnerships (Action 55) and laying the groundwork for stronger international cooperation to meet emerging challenges. The SDG Champions Programme aligns directly with these global commitments.
Key Takeaway
Becoming an SDG Champion is an opportunity to lead, inspire, and demonstrate that sustainability is achievable—not only at a global scale, but within local communities, organisations, and workplaces. By participating in the SDG Champions Programme, your organisation can contribute meaningfully to Ireland’s national strategy and the global mission for a better future.
Apply now and be a voice for sustainable change.
For full details and application forms, please visit: Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment – SDG Champions Programme
