Thomas Gould
Question:180. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications his plans to tackle global warming given the record temperatures experienced in recent weeks. [41833/22]
View answerTuesday, 26 July 2022
Questions (180)
Written answers
Climate observations show that Ireland’s climate is changing. Average temperatures have increased in Ireland by 0.9°C since 1900 and climate change impacts are projected to increase in the coming decades. The temperatures we have experienced in Ireland this July illustrate the potential damage we all face in terms of our health, environment and infrastructure.
Climate change is a global challenge which requires a global response. To achieve the goal set by the Paris Agreement, to limit global warming to 1.5° to 2°C above pre-industrial levels, countries must reduce emissions to net zero as soon as possible. Ireland is committed to realising the goals of the Agreement, championing progressive action, and ensuring the most vulnerable are at the heart of all our engagement.
To reverse the current trajectory of emissions, meet our targets and contribute to global action, a significant shift is required in the speed at which we roll-out and ramp-up up the measures and actions that will decarbonise our economy.
Ireland’s strengthened climate governance framework, established through the 2021 Climate Act, provides the foundations to address this challenge. The Act provides for annual Climate Action Plans which set out our response to the climate crisis; providing details of what we must do to meet this challenge and our national climate objectives. The recently approved carbon budgets, as well as the soon to be published sectoral emissions ceilings, will also provide a strong framework to support achievement of our emissions reduction goals.
The intensity of the rising temperature impacts will be directly linked to the success of global efforts to reduce emissions. However, a level of climate change impact is already locked in. This must be planned for, regardless of progress in reducing emissions. Ireland’s strategy for climate adaptation is contained in the National Adaptation Framework (NAF), first published in 2018 with the strategic vision to develop a ‘climate resilient Ireland.
The key objectives of the NAF are implemented through activities – at sectoral, regional and local level. Under the NAF, nine sectoral adaptation plans have been developed across Government. Local adaptation strategies were also developed and adopted by all 31 Local Authorities.
The NAF is currently being reviewed in line with the requirements of the 2021 Climate Act and Climate Action Plan. A report in relation to the NAF review will be submitted to me later this year to help guide national adaptation priorities over the coming years.