In this week’s Sustainability/ESG Bulletin, read about green measures in Budget 2026. Also covered is the Institute’s response to the public consultation on the Northern Ireland draft Climate Action Plan 2023–2027, green public procurement in an upcoming Institute conference, new accessibility guidelines for microenterprises, analysis pointing to a lack of climate transition plans, the demise of the Net-Zero Banking Alliance, the acceleration of the global energy transition, as well as the usual articles, resources and upcoming events.   IRELAND Budget 2026 Several measures were included in Budget 2026 to accelerate Ireland’s energy transition and underpin Ireland’s journey to a net-zero future. Read analysis from Chartered Accountants Ireland here. Institute responds to public consultation on the Northern Ireland draft Climate Action Plan 2023–2027 Chartered Accountants Ireland has responded to the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) consultation on the draft Climate Action Plan 2023–2027. In our response, we called for called for targeted supports for SMEs, along with incentives, clear communication and minimum “red tape” to help SMEs fully engage with Northern Ireland’s transition to a net zero economy. Read our response here. Institute conference to address green public procurement Green public procurement will form part of the Institute’s Public Sector Conference again this year. The conference, which will take place on 15 October, features guest speaker, Brian Quirke from the Department of Climate, Communications and the Climate, Energy and the Environment (DCEE). Brian will present on the Green Public Procurement Strategy and Action Plan, including an update on developments since the strategy was launched in 2024. IRELAND Ireland meets its 2025 EV target   The Department of Transport has announced that Ireland has already met its Climate Action Plan target of 195,000 electric vehicles on the road by the end of 2025.  Described as “a key milestone in the nation's transition to cleaner transport” the development highlights the change in recent years as more households, businesses and communities across the country benefit from the lower running costs, quieter streets and reduced emissions which EVs bring. While acknowledging the achievement, the next five years will demand an even greater collective effort as Ireland has committed to ensuring that 30 percent of the national vehicle fleet is electric by 2030. Infrastructure investment key to meeting Ireland’s environmental and climate targets Scaled-up investment in water, energy, transport and waste management infrastructure to address the significant environmental challenges is essential to meet the demands of Ireland’s growing economy and population. This was among the findings of Europe’s environment 2025, an analysis on the current state and outlook for the continent’s environment, climate and sustainability. The country profile for Ireland suggests that while progress has been made in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and strengthening governance, urgent improvements are needed for Ireland to meet 2025 recycling targets. Action is also needed to address nature decline and meet 2030 and 2050 climate targets. The report stresses that climate change and environmental degradation pose a direct threat to Europe’s competitiveness, which depends on natural resources. New accessibility guidelines for microenterprises published by CCPC The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) has published guidelines for microenterprises on the European Accessibility Act (EAA). The Act, which became law in Ireland on 28 June 2025, mandates that digital products and services be accessible to all users, including those with disabilities. The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) is the statutory body responsible for promoting compliance with, and enforcing, competition and consumer protection law in Ireland. Northern Ireland/UK Funding opportunity for women-led businesses to scale and export Invest Northern Ireland has opened applications for their Ambition to Grow | Supporting Women programme. In partnership with Women in Business NI, the programme particularly encourages applications from Northern Ireland’s most innovative and ambitious micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises to compete for up to £30,000 in funding. It aims to help businesses grow by creating jobs, innovating processes, and selling outside Northern Ireland. More details are here. Analysis points to lack of credible plans to align capital with climate goals Analysis published by the TPI Global Climate Transition Centre, part of the Global School of Sustainability at the London School of Economics and Political Science has shown that 98 percent of companies have not disclosed plans to shift capital away from carbon-intensive assets or to align spending with their long-term decarbonisation goals, and that investors need rigorous and independent data on corporate climate action more than ever in the face of significant economic and financial risks from climate change. The State of the Corporate Transition 2025 report– which assessed 2,000 of the world’s highest-emitting public companies on their climate action – described climate change as “the world’s biggest market failure”, but found that strong headwinds are facing the low-carbon transition. The report advises that to mitigate physical climate risk, the financial sector, the ‘real’ economy and governments must take coordinated action to reduce emissions to net zero. EUROPE MEPs call for ambitious EU climate pledge ahead of COP30 The Committee on the Environment, Climate and Food Safety has adopted its policy demands for the UN Climate Change Conference COP30. The resolution states that the EU should remain a leader in international climate negotiations and calls on all countries to contribute their fair share in providing adequate climate finance. MEPs further stressed the need for EU climate policy “to keep a high ambition in line with the agreed targets and to prioritise in its actions cost-effectiveness, the competitiveness of European economy, social inclusion and a high level of environmental protection”, and urged the Council to adopt as soon as possible the EU’s climate pledge for 2035. WORLD Net-Zero Banking Alliance (NZBA) officially disbands The Net-Zero Banking Alliance (NZBA) has officially disbanded following the departure of several key members, although its guidance and supporting documentation will  reportedly “remain publicly available” for individual banks worldwide to use. The Alliance, which was established in April 2021 by 43 global financial institutions under the United Nations Environment Programme Finance Initiative (UNEP FI), aimed to align banks’ lending and investment portfolios with net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 in line with the Paris Agreement. The decision to disband it was made through a member vote. Global energy transition accelerates Renewable energy—particularly solar and wind—is poised to overtake coal as the leading source of electricity worldwide. The shift is being propelled by a rapid increase in clean energy deployment, spurred by the ongoing energy crisis. According to Renewables 2025, the International Energy Agency’s recently published medium-term forecast, renewable capacity is now projected to grow more quickly than previously anticipated over the next five years, marking a significant milestone in global decarbonization efforts. However, the report warns that key challenges remain, including maintaining grid reliability and addressing uneven development of renewable infrastructure across regions. Separately, global energy thinktank Ember reported that for the first half of 2025 renewable energy produced more electricity than coal.  Resources Technical Roundup (From our Professional Accounting team) EFRAG has released two complementary reports to support the application of the VSME standard, a report and infographic which provides practical supports to SMEs who wish to report their greenhouse gas emissions under the VSME. This includes a focus on some of the digital tools used by entities in preparing their sustainability reports. The International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) has published its September 2025 update and podcast. Articles Why offshore wind energy matters for Ireland’s future (IDA Ireland) ESG might be more resilient than critics expect (Financial Times) Consolidating non-financial data: why standards matter (ICAEW) How should workplaces reframe diversity and inclusion practices? (Financial Times - Subscriber) The true cost of motherhood? Start with £65,000 in lost earnings The Times (UK – Subscriber) Climate action could save 725,000 lives a year, research finds (Edie) The UK’s sustainability disclosure reset: what investors really need (Sustainable Views – FT -Subscriber) Why the UK should double down on double materiality (Sustainable Views – FT - Subscriber) China Is Beating the US in the Battle for Energy Export Dominance (Bloomberg) Tragedy of the horizons a decade on: climate change threatens financial stability (Sustainable Views – FT -Subscriber) Events Business in the Community Northern Ireland (BITCNI), Climate Risk Assessment and Business Continuity Planning Workshop This 90-minute interactive online workshop, delivered in partnership with Climate NI, is designed to equip businesses with the tools and strategies needed to identify, assess, and manage climate-related risks. Participants will explore practical approaches to climate risk assessment and business continuity planning through engaging activities and case studies. The session will cover how to identify climate risks, assess their impact, and develop effective risk management strategies to ensure operational resilience during and after climate disruptions. Virtual, 14 October 2025, 11:00–12:30 Chartered Accountants Ireland, Public Sector Conference  The public sector conference will focus on key issues impacting finance and non-finance professionals working in public service and related organisations. This includes civil and public servants, as well as those working in public bodies and not-for-profit organisations. Virtual, 15 October | 9:30am–1:30pm | 4 hours CPD Business in the Community Northern Ireland (BITCNI),  Age-Inclusive Workplaces: Building the Case  This online workshop marks the first in a new series exploring the importance of age inclusion in the workplace. With shifting demographics in Northern Ireland, the session will highlight why age should be a priority on workplace inclusion agendas. Attendees will gain insights into the business case for age diversity and learn how inclusive practices can support employees at all life stages, particularly those aged 50 and over. Virtual, 15 October 2025, 10:00 – 11:30 am Business in the Community Northern Ireland (BITCNI), An Introduction to Biodiversity Workshop This online workshop provides foundational knowledge on biodiversity and its relevance to business, society, and the environment. Designed for professionals across all sectors, the session explores the importance of nature-positive action, threats to biodiversity, and practical steps businesses can take to support conservation. Participants will receive a handout and access to a short assessment, with a certificate awarded upon completion. Virtual, 16 October 2025, 14:00–16:00 BST An Taisce, Climate Action Week, 13 – 19 October 2025 Climate Action Week is Ireland’s largest pop-up climate festival and has been coordinated by An Taisce since 2017. On behalf of the Department of Climate, Energy and Environment the 9th festival will bring nationwide spaces that champion local planet protectors and welcome solution seekers to events that tackle the climate crisis in exciting and empowering ways. International Society of Sustainability Professionals Webinar: AI in Action: Practical Tools for Corporate Sustainability Impact Artificial Intelligence is rapidly transforming how organizations collect data, measure impact, and drive sustainability performance—but it can be difficult to separate the hype from the real-world applications. In this session, we’ll explore how corporate sustainability professionals can leverage AI to work smarter, not harder. Virtual, Wednesday, October 22, 2025, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM (EDT) NESC, NESC Energy Conference 2025: Energising the Transition This conference follows the publication of NESC’s reports Ireland’s Future Power System and Economic Resilience, International Trade Dependencies and the Energy Transition, and Connecting People to the Energy Transition, as well as the forthcoming Energy Transition: A Systems Perspective. The in-person event builds on this extensive body of work and incorporates inputs from national and international experts to provide stimulating discussions of how Ireland can make the necessary transition for the good of all people and sectors. In person, Radisson Blu Royal Hotel, Dublin 2, 22 October, 8.30-15.45 A4S Insights,  Integrating sustainability into decision making – stories of impact Discover what it takes to drive change in finance at this online event featuring winners of the Finance for the Future Awards. Hear how bold sustainability actions are transforming organisations, and learn from the challenges and successes of real-world changemakers. A panel of judges will share insights into what makes an effective sustainability leader, offering practical lessons in resilience, collaboration, and impact that attendees can apply in their own organisations. Virtual, 29 October 2025, 16:00 GMT Sustainability Europe, Sustainability Europe 2025 This in-person event in London brings together finance professionals and sustainability experts to explore how organisations can navigate regulatory uncertainty, climate risk, and supply chain complexity while driving sustainable growth. A highlight of the programme is the A4S-led panel chaired by Ciara Burke, Director of CFO Programme Europe, which will focus on strengthening collaboration between finance and sustainability teams to improve reporting outcomes. In person, London, UK, 21–22 October 2025, 08:40–17:50;  A4S Session: Detangle the regulation web and master interoperability Date and time: 21 October 2025, 15:15–15:50 BST Ibec Networks Autumn Seminar Series, Session 4: The culture of sustainability innovation The final webinar in a four-part series Autumn Seminar Series ‘The culture equation’ looks at what supports are available to assist on a journey to becoming a more sustainable business. In the supporting case study from O'Brien's Fine Foods the webinar will discuss what drives a sustainability focused culture in an organisation. Virtual, Thursday 13 November, 11.00-11.50am Sustainability Centre You can find information, guidance and supports to understand sustainability and meet the challenges it presents in our online Sustainability Centre.    

  Just this week, Euronext launched its first integrated marketplace for European exchange -traded funds (ETFs), a development that enhances liquidity and transparency across the continent and has potential benefits for Dublin. At the same time, the current ETF “deemed disposal” Irish tax rules continue to act as a barrier for both investors and fund promoters. With Budget 2026 around the corner, there is an opportunity to consider reforms that would better align Ireland with international peers, broaden retail investor participation, and reinforce Ireland’s position as a leading hub for ETF activity. In our response to the Ireland for Finance 2026–2030 consultation, Chartered Accountants Ireland highlighted the importance of strengthening Euronext Dublin and modernising the tax treatment of exchange-traded funds (ETFs) as part of Ireland’s next financial services strategy. Ireland is already a global leader in ETFs, but further action is needed to ensure long-term competitiveness. Revitalising Euronext Dublin Ireland’s domestic exchange is a vital piece of infrastructure. A deeper, more liquid stock exchange not only helps indigenous firms raise equity but also positions Ireland as more than just a fund servicing centre. Reviving Euronext Dublin is key to building credibility as a hub for capital markets activity. A European Opportunity Euronext has recently launched its first integrated marketplace for European ETFs, designed to boost liquidity, transparency and efficiency across multiple exchanges. With Ireland’s established expertise in ETF servicing and regulation, Dublin is well placed to take advantage of this development and attract new flows of capital. Tackling the Tax Barrier The current “deemed disposal” rule; taxing ETF investors every eight years, even if they do not sell, creates a barrier for both domestic investors and international promoters. Reforming this rule would make Ireland more competitive internationally and encourage wider retail participation in capital markets. Budget 2026 as a Turning Point Budget 2026 provides an opportunity to modernise ETF taxation and align Ireland with peer jurisdictions. Coupled with the momentum from Euronext’s new ETF marketplace, such reform could strengthen Ireland’s position as a leading location for ETF activity and deliver long-term benefits for the wider economy. For more information read our full submission to the Department of Finance on Ireland for Finance 2026–2030  here.

In this week’s Sustainability/ESG Bulletin, read about the increase in environmental tax collected in 2024, SEAI's announcement of new funding opportunities for fleet electrification, and the Department for Transport’s newly released Statement of Strategy 2025-2028. Also featured are calls from the EPA for stronger action to protect clean air in Ireland,  updates on consultations in Northern Ireland, as well as the usual articles, resources and upcoming events.   IRELAND Environment taxes increased by 11 percent in 2024 to €5.5 billion In 2024, €5.5 billion was collected in environment-related taxes in Ireland, making up 4.3 percent of total taxes in 2024.  This is according to figures published by the Central Statistics Office, which noted an increase of 11 percent on 2023 and the highest amount collected between 2015 and 2024. Most environment taxes were taxes on energy products, such as heating and transport fuels. Energy taxes accounted for 63.5 percent of all environment taxes, or €3.5 billion, in 2024. Transport taxes (including motor tax and vehicle registration tax) accounted for 36 percent of all environment-related taxes in 2024. Pollution and resource taxes, such as the plastic bag levy, made up 0.5 percent of environment-related taxes in 2024. Electric vehicles for business The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) has announced it is offering up to €8,000 to companies looking to electrify some or all their existing fleet. The assessment includes a review of a business’ current fleet, recommendations on which routes/vehicles to electrify and the charging infrastructure required to support the business’ plan. Capital funding required to deliver Ireland’s offshore renewable energy infrastructure Capital funding and other funding mechanisms are required to deliver offshore renewable wind energy port infrastructure in Ireland. This was among the findings of research conducted by academics based in Dublin City University (DCU) under the Next Generation Energy Systems (NexSys). The paper identified limited port capacity as a key constraint for Ireland’s planned rollout of critical offshore renewable wind energy (ORE) projects. Department of Transport publishes new Statement of Strategy 2025–2028 The Department of Transport has published its new Statement of Strategy for 2025–2028, setting out six high-level goals. This include Connectivity, Effective Policy and Regulation, Sustainability: Economy, Environment and Society, Transport Access, Safety and Security, Organisational Excellence and Innovation. The Department’s Implementation Plan 2025-2028 has also been published, detailing the strategic objectives and actions which will be implemented and how they will be monitored. EPA calls for more to be done to protect clean air in Ireland The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has published its report, Air Quality in Ireland 2024, which is based on data from Ireland’s extensive air monitoring network of 115 stations. It reveals that while Ireland currently meets EU air quality standards, we are projected to fall short of the stricter air quality standards set for 2030 under the new Ambient Air Quality Directive. According to a ESRI report in June 27, 2025, the healthcare costs of poor air quality in Ireland, air pollution imposes a significant economic burden, in terms of healthcare costs, lost productivity, impact on agricultural crops and damage to buildings and infrastructure. The ESRI report notes that the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) estimate that the total welfare losses from ambient air pollution (PM2.5 and ground-level ozone) in the EU-27 in 2017 amounted to €601bn, or approximately 4.9 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP).   Northern Ireland Public consultations launched on non-domestic renewable heat and on low carbon hydrogen The Department for the Economy has launched a public consultation to shape the final arrangements of the closure of the Non-Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) scheme. This scheme launched in 2012 to provide financial incentives to businesses and public sector organizations to switch from conventional heating to renewable sources like biomass boilers or heat pumps. Closure arrangements include a payment mechanism based on annual payments, with uplifted tariffs, delivering a solution that is fair to participants and taxpayers alike. This consultation will run until Monday 24, November 2025.  Separately, a public consultation has launched on the policy for low carbon hydrogen,  a key commitment of the 2025 Energy Strategy Action Plan. The consultation seeks views on a sustainable, regional approach for the production, storage, transport, and use of hydrogen in Northern Ireland.     Northern Ireland first Draft Climate Action Plan DAERA Minister Andrew Muir is encouraging people to have their say on Northern Ireland’s first draft Climate Action Plan, before the 16-week public conclusion closes on 8 October. The draft action plan, a legal requirement of the Climate Change Act, that was passed by the NI Assembly in 2022, sets out the path Northern Ireland will take to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2050.   EUROPE A survey by the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EU-OSHA) has revealed that one-third of EU workers are exposed to climate change-related risks ─ such as extreme heat, extreme weather events or poor air quality.  The factsheet for Ireland focuses on responses related to the implications of climate change for OSH — including exposure to climate change-related risks at work, associated health impacts and the availability of preventive measures in the workplace.   Resources from Chartered Accountants Ireland Sustainability-focused specialist qualifications Chartered Accountants Ireland has launched its Autumn/Winter professional development programme offering, which includes the Certificate in Sustainability Strategy, Risk and Reporting (Starting 7 October).   Resources Accountancy Europe has published a paper to support the ongoing discussions on both the European Commission Omnibus proposals for the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) of 26 February 2025 and EFRAG’s consultation on the draft amended ESRS. The paper, titled Sustainability statements based on ESRS: “compliance” or “fair presentation”? outlines the issues at stake, the differences between the two frameworks, and explores what it means for sustainability reporting and sustainability assurance. Continued strength of sustainability and ESG PwC has published its inaugural Global Sustainability Reporting Survey, revealing that  most companies reporting under the CSRD and ISSB say pressure to provide sustainability data and insights has increased, despite regulator rollback. The survey was based on responses from 496 companies that have reported, or plan to do so in the future, under the CSRD or ISSB frameworks. Approx 40 percent of survey respondents planning to report under the CSRD in the future say they will postpone statutory reporting by two years, in line with the EU’s ‘stop the clock’ directive. An equal number intend to report on the original timeline, even if not legally required to do so, whether under the CSRD or an alternative framework like the ISSB or the Global Reporting Initiative. Stakeholder pressure is given as part of the reason for the resolve to report, along with companies using this information to inform business decisions.  Separately, a recent Morningstar survey of over 500 pension funds, insurers, CIOs, and family offices found that ESG integration into investment decision-making remains robust, with asset owners put climate transition readiness (56%), energy management (48%), and physical climate risks (42%) at the top of their list of most material environmental factors.   Articles Plans for dealing with future extreme weather events not yet finalised (Irish Times – Subscriber) Investors should back renewables amid AI driven energy surge, says Amundi head (Business Post – Subscriber) Areas on Dublin’s northside among most at-risk from ‘extreme coastal events’ – New analysis raises likelihood that thousands of properties will become uninsurable (Irish Times) Five UNGA80 takeaways every business leader needs to know (UN Global Compact) Self-charging: Using solar panels to provide your car’s charge (Irish Times)   Podcast The Guardian -  Today in Focus Here comes the Sun! The Solar Energy Revolution  (29mins)   Events Dublin Chamber, Sustainability Academy Workshops This autumn, for the first time, all Sustainability Academy workshops will take place in person at Dublin Chamber, 7 Clare Street, Dublin 2. Dublin Chamber is offering a special rate of €420 for those who register for the full series of five workshops (normally €495). This includes a free one-hour tailored advisory consultation with a sustainability expert from Goodbody Clearstream. Whether you're new to sustainability or looking to build on existing knowledge, this series provides a structured way to learn what matters and apply it in your role. Venue: Dublin Chamber, 7 Clare Street, Dublin 2 Environmental Strategy Bootcamp – Carbon Footprint & Decarbonisation, Wednesday 8 October, 9am -1pm Strategic Sustainability Leadership, Wednesday 5 November, 9am -1pm Sustainable Business Practices – Strengthening Customer Connections, Wednesday 26 November, Time: 9am -1pm Internal Sustainability Integration – Building a Sustainable Workplace Culture, Thursday 4 December, Time: 9am -1pm EFRAG, The VSME Standard in Action: From the European Commission’s Recommendation to Digital Solutions EFRAG is running a hybrid VSME Outreach Event on 6 October 2025 at which the European Commission will present on its Recommendation, with reactions from policymakers, banks and SMEs. Attendees will discover the EFRAG VSME Ecosystem and digital tools and learn from practical SME experiences and case studies. Virtual and in person, 6 October 2025, 10am-1pm CET IBEC, Preparing for the EU Plastic Pellet Regulation This webinar is essential for all companies using plastic pellets as a raw material. The EU’s new Plastic Pellet Regulation requires businesses to prevent pellet loss into the environment, while also measuring and reporting any losses. Join us to learn what these new rules mean for your company, the steps you need to take to stay compliant, and how to prepare effectively for implementation. Online - 9 October 11:00 - 12:00 French Embassy, DCU Institute for Climate and Society,  The legacy of the Paris Agreement A discussion on the legacy of the Paris Climate Change Agreement, which was signed 10 years ago. Speakers include Benoît Faraco, France's climate ambassador, and Eamon Ryan, former Minister for Environment, Climate and Communications. The event is free and open to the public. Places are limited, so please register. In person, October 8, 16:00-18:00, Europe House, Chatham Street, Dublin 2. Diversity Mark, Diversity Mark Annual Summit 2025 This event will explore how diversity and inclusion can drive sustainable business growth, gathering over 300 business leaders, executives, and inclusion advocates for a full-day programme featuring keynote speakers and breakout sessions. It aims to equip attendees with practical strategies to create more inclusive workplaces and foster meaningful change across sectors. In person, 8 October 2025, Titanic Belfast Accountancy Europe, Is the public sector sustainable? Find out about the latest developments to promote sustainability reporting alongside financial reporting in the public sector, the specific challenges facing the public sector, what can be learnt from experience in the private sector. Virtual, 8 October 2025, 14:30–16:00 CEST Chartered Accountants Ireland, Public Sector Conference  The public sector conference will focus on key issues impacting finance and non-finance professionals working in public service and related organisations. This includes civil and public servants, as well as those working in public bodies and not-for-profit organisations. Wednesday 15 October | 9:30am–1:30pm Online | 4 hours CPD FTI Consulting, Women in Sustainability FTI Consulting is hosting its next women inhttps://www.linkedin.com/search/results/all/?keywords= percent23sustainability&origin=HASH_TAG_FROM_FEED sustainability networking event on 16 October. It's an evening get together for women in the sustainability space to connect and share insights. In person, 16 October, The Shelbourne Hotel An Taisce, Climate Action Week, 13 – 19 October 2025 Climate Action Week is Ireland’s largest pop-up climate festival and has been coordinated by An Taisce since 2017. On behalf of the Department of Climate, Energy and Environment the 9th festival will bring nationwide spaces that champion local planet protectors and welcome solution seekers to events that tackle the climate crisis in exciting and empowering ways. International Society of Sustainability Professionals Webinar: AI in Action: Practical Tools for Corporate Sustainability Impact Artificial Intelligence is rapidly transforming how organizations collect data, measure impact, and drive sustainability performance—but it can be difficult to separate the hype from the real-world applications. In this session, we’ll explore how corporate sustainability professionals can leverage AI to work smarter, not harder. Virtual, Wednesday, October 22, 2025, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM (EDT) NESC, NESC Energy Conference 2025: Energising the Transition This conference follows the publication of NESC’s reports Ireland’s Future Power System and Economic Resilience, International Trade Dependencies and the Energy Transition, and Connecting People to the Energy Transition, as well as the forthcoming Energy Transition: A Systems Perspective. The in-person event builds on this extensive body of work and incorporates inputs from national and international experts to provide stimulating discussions of how Ireland can make the necessary transition for the good of all people and sectors. In person, Radisson Blu Royal Hotel, Dublin 2, 22 October, 8.30-15.45 Ibec Networks Autumn Seminar Series, Session 4: The culture of sustainability innovation The final webinar in a four-part series Autumn Seminar Series ‘The culture equation’ looks at what supports are available to assist on a journey to becoming a more sustainable business. In the supporting case study from O'Brien's Fine Foods the webinar will discuss what drives a sustainability focused culture in an organisation. Virtual, Thursday 13 November, 11.00-11.50am   Sustainability Centre You can find information, guidance and supports to understand sustainability and meet the challenges it presents in our online Sustainability Centre.  

In the last week, the CCAB-I responded to the consultation on the Employer Permits Occupations Lists launched in July by the Department for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment. The Employer Permits Occupations Lists comprise the Critical Skills Occupations List (CSOL) and the Ineligible Occupations List (IOL). The current inclusion of accountants on the CSOL – highly skilled professional roles in high demand not always available in the resident labour force so eligible for a Critical Skills Employment Permit (CSEP) – ensures that firms can employ non-EEA nationals to fill skills and labour gaps. In the submission, the CCAB-I recommends that accountants be kept on the CSOL as there remains a critical shortage of qualified accountants in Ireland and an insufficient pipeline studying to become accountants to meet both current and future demand. We highlight that the accountancy profession plays a pivotal role in delivering vital professional services and advice to all sectors of the Irish economy. It contributes to the economy through the activities of professional accounting firms (providing essential audit, tax, consulting services) and the work of professionally qualified accountants operating in finance and leadership roles across all sectors. The submission references the Oxford Economics report, The Accountancy Profession in the UK and Ireland (2024), highlighting that the profession contributed €19.8 billion to Irish GDP in 2022 – 15% (€3 billion) of this from professional accounting firms, 85% (€16.8 billion) made up of the value provided by in-house accountants working in Irish businesses. The profession’s contribution to the Irish economy has increased by 53% since this report was last compiled in 2017. Across the EU it is widely recognised that there is a general shortage of accountants, and our member firms have communicated to us the ongoing difficulties they are having in recruiting experienced hires from within the EEA. These capacity shortages have been exacerbated by domestic housing shortages as well as the ongoing cost-of-living pressures. To address the lack of available skilled labour, large numbers of non-EEA qualified accountants are already being heavily relied upon for the purposes of filling vacant accounting roles in Ireland. Therefore, it is vital that accountants remain part of the CSOL to adequately meet ongoing capacity shortages. The last review of the Employer Permits Occupations Lists took place in 2023.

  In this week’s Sustainability/ESG Bulletin read about Chartered Accountants Ireland’s support of the UN Sustainable Development Goals Week. Also covered are Government consultations on the development of a Social Climate Plan, a Circular Economy Strategy, Northern Ireland’s Department of Finance new guidance on environmental and climate impacts in programme project development, updates on renewable energy auctions and supports, and news from the UN General Assembly, along with the usual articles, resources and upcoming events.   Chartered Accountants Ireland Chartered Accountants Ireland, in partnership with the Institute of Bankers (IOB),  held a weeklong programme of team-focused activities this week to promote the UN Sustainable Development Goals by participating in the UN’s Global Goals Week - an annual week of action, awareness, and accountability for the Sustainable Goals. The programme included recycling and energy webinars, a pop-up charity shop in aid of The Jack and Jill Children's Foundation, a seminar on nature, risk and finance, and a networking and climate-focused event for our ACA Professionals to connect, reflect, and celebrate our shared commitment to sustainability.   IRELAND United Nation’s Global Goals Week The theme for the 80th United Nations General Assembly (‘UNGA 80’), which began this week in New York, is: “Better together: 80 years and more for peace, development and human rights”, emphasising the importance of multilateralism in the negotiation of peace and towards building a shared future and accelerating progress on the Sustainable Development Goals. Key themes include gender equality, climate action, AI governance, and mental health. Ireland is marking 70 years of UN membership, and the UNGA is an “opportunity for Ireland to reaffirm its commitment to global cooperation and sustainable development”. On Friday 26 September Taoiseach Micheál Martin will deliver the National Statement to the United National Statement to the United Nations General Assembly. Consultation launches on development of national Social Climate Plan The Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment (DCEE) has launched a consultation on the development of a national Social Climate Plan, which will set out measures to be co-financed from the EU Social Climate Fund, the first EU fund specifically designed to alleviate energy and transport poverty arising from the transition to clean mobility and a decarbonised built environment. The Plan aims to set out measures to address the impacts of this transition on vulnerable groups, including businesses. The consultation is open until October 23, 2025. Circular economy funding announced and consultation launched Applications have opened for the 2025 funding round of the Circular Economy Innovation Grant Scheme (CEIGS). €650,000 funding is now available to support community groups, social enterprises, and SMEs driving circular economy innovation across Ireland. The CEIGS is designed to support innovative circular economy projects led by social enterprises, voluntary and community organisations, and small businesses with fewer than 50 employees. Separately, a public consultation on Ireland's Second Whole of Government Circular Economy Strategy has been launched, proposing a range of actions and associated targets across key sectors. Among the Strategy’s core objectives is ‘decoupling economic growth from resource use’. A report released this week by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Ireland state that Ireland needs to recycle an additional 400,000 tonnes of waste every year, with packaging-waste-generation increasing almost four times faster than recycling since 2016. Potential tax revenue not collected due to jet kerosene excise exemption Fossil fuel subsidies decreased to €4.7 billion in 2024 and petrol tax per tonne of carbon dioxide increased by 22 percent, according to the CSO statistical release on Fossil Fuel Subsidies 2024. The release also revealed that the revenue forgone, or the amount of potential tax revenue not collected, due to the excise exemption for jet kerosene (used in commercial aviation) was €720 million in 2024, representing an increase of 19 percent from 2023. The reduced excise rate on road diesel when compared to the petrol excise rate led to €370 million in forgone revenue in 2024. The carbon charge for consumers of petrol and road diesel both increased by 22 percent in 2024 to €274 and €207 per tonne of carbon dioxide emitted, respectively. 1500 GWh identified as provisionally successful by RESS 5 [BH1]  The provisional results of the fifth Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS 5) auction have been announced, provisionally securing 1500 GWh which will power 357,000 homes. The announcement by the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment points to solar PV’s “pivotal role in Ireland’s clean energy transition”, reinforcing its role as Ireland’s fastest growing renewable electricity source. It goes on to describe solar as “highly complementary to wind generation”, meaning this rapid growth of solar strengthens Ireland’s ability to generate clean electricity all year round, enhancing our security of supply and helping to stabilise electricity prices. Its role in delivering Irish energy independence and in providing long-term security of clean renewable electricity for Irish households was described as “Ireland’s energy insurance policy”, reducing its dependence on imported fossil fuels, and consequent vulnerability to international energy markets. This is the fifth auction to occur between 2020 and 2025.    NORTHERN IRELAND/UK Minister Andrew Muir reiterates crucial link between economic growth and environmental sustainability Department of Agriculture Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) Minister Andrew Muir has reiterated the crucial link between economic growth and environmental sustainability last week. Speaking at the Co-Centre for Climate + Biodiversity + Water Annual Symposium at Queen’s University Belfast, Minister Muir said “To ensure our economy grows sustainably, we need a healthy environment. We do not have a choice; we must address these interconnected challenges”. Minister Muir also emphasised the importance of cross-border collaboration, commenting “Our climate and environmental challenges do not respect borders, and neither can our solutions - this is why the Co-Centre approach, looking at climate challenges on a North-South, East-West basis, is so vital.” This Co-Centre, co-funded by DAERA along with Research Ireland and the UK Research Institutes, addresses the three connected issues of climate change, biodiversity loss and declining water quality in Northern Ireland, Ireland and Great Britain. Final Scheme Design for renewable electricity price guarantee published Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has published the Final Scheme Design for a renewable electricity support scheme for Northern Ireland. The Renewable Electricity Price Guarantee (REPG) aims to incentivise renewable electricity generation and position Northern Ireland as a competitive and attractive destination for investment. The scheme aims to deliver lower energy prices and help achieve the Climate Change Act (Northern Ireland) 2022 target of 80 percent renewable electricity consumption by 2030. The Department for the Economy will consult on the REPG Terms and Conditions later this year, providing stakeholders with a key opportunity to input into the contractual aspects of the scheme. The first auction is anticipated in early 2027. Department of Finance issues guidance on environmental and climate impacts in programme project development The Department of Finance has published guidance and related documents to help appraisers meet their responsibility to consider appropriately environmental and climate impacts in the development of all programme and project business cases. Documents include: ‘Incorporating Environmental and Climate Considerations into Business Cases’ a ‘DoF Emissions Calculator Worked Example’ of a PV (solar panel) installation project, and templates for ‘Options Frameworks, with Green Solution’. The announcement mentions a remaining need to consider other impacts formerly under the umbrella of “sustainable development”, such as equality, health, social inclusion and rural, as well as economic impacts in business cases. As this continues to be a rapidly evolving and wide-ranging area, the Department is advising users to regularly refer back to the DoF website for the latest version of these documents.   EUROPE EU green lights Waste Framework Directive The EU Parliament has given the final green light to the revised ‘Waste Framework Directive’ which will introduce new measures to prevent and reduce waste from food and textiles across the EU. The updated legislation will introduce binding food waste reduction targets, to be met at national level by 31 December 2030. Producers that make textiles available in the EU will have to cover the costs of their collection, sorting and recycling, through new producer responsibility (EPR) schemes to be set up by each member state, within 30 months of the Directive’s entry into force. The law will now be signed by both co-legislators, ahead of its publication in the EU Official Journal. EU countries will have 20 months following its entry into force to transpose the rules into national legislation. WORLD “A clean energy transition is happening, and it is here to stay” This was the message of a joint letter, signed by nearly 20 world leaders this week as country representatives gathered in New York at the annual United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) meeting.  The letter, “All hands on deck for the just and equitable energy transition” called on leaders and the private sector to unite in action to unlock a more sustainable, equitable and prosperous future for all and was signed by leaders including Anthony Albanese, Prime Minister of Australia, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, President of Brazil, Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada, Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, Keir Starmer, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Fatih Birol, Executive Director of the International Energy Agency and others. The letter pointed to the acceleration of the global energy transition, with $2 trillion invested in clean energy in 2024—double that of fossil fuels. It referenced the persistent disparities persist between the developed and developing economies, which the newly launched Global Energy Transitions Forum aims to address these gaps by unlocking financing, scaling renewables, and supporting local initiatives. Resources from Chartered Accountants Ireland Sustainability-focused specialist qualifications Chartered Accountants Ireland has launched its Autumn/Winter professional development programme offering, which includes the Certificate in Sustainability Strategy, Risk and Reporting (Starting 7 October).   Technical updates from Professional Accounting (From Technical Roundup 19 September):   IAASA has released a Thematic Desktop Examination on Sustainability-linked financing. The thematic examination looked at the annual reports of 17 equity issuers listed on the main market of Euronext Dublin.   As the public consultation on the ESRS enters its final few days, EFRAG has prepared some informative videos and a factsheet on the proposed simplifications to the standards. The consultation remains open until 29 September.   EFRAG are hosting a hybrid event on 6 October on the VSME standard entitled “The VSME Standard in Action: From the European Commission’s Recommendation to Digital Solutions.”   Accountancy Europe has updated its CSRD Transposition Overview which monitors the CSRD transposition status across the EEA countries.   The International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) will be hosting episode 12 of their “Perspectives on sustainability disclosure” webinar series on 6th October.   Accountancy Europe has published its September 2025 Sustainability Update.   Resources A report in the Energy Research & Social Science journal has published offering a reimagining of government-supported initiatives to support SMEs to embed decarbonisation activity within everyday practices, in order to create enduring, meaningful progress towards net-zero. Articles Gender Pay Gap reporting tightens in 2025 (Accountancy Ireland – Briefly) CSR: good for business and the community (Accountancy Ireland – Briefly) Non-financial reporting: how to consolidate or aggregate data (ICAEW – Insights) These 10 nature finance models could help deliver returns and impact – here’s how ( World Economic Forum) Failure to close climate action gap could cost us €26bn – imagine what that might achieve (Irish Times) Irish Government to ratify landmark UN high seas treaty - Meanwhile, Northern Ireland’s first peatland strategy launched in ‘turning point’ for peatland conservation (Irish Times) Events Dublin Chamber, Sustainability Academy Workshops This autumn, for the first time, all Sustainability Academy workshops will take place in person at Dublin Chamber, 7 Clare Street, Dublin 2. Dublin Chamber is offering a special rate of €420 for those who register for the full series of five workshops (normally €495). This includes a free one-hour tailored advisory consultation with a sustainability expert from Goodbody Clearstream. Whether you're new to sustainability or looking to build on existing knowledge, this series provides a structured way to learn what matters and apply it in your role. Venue: Dublin Chamber, 7 Clare Street, Dublin 2 Chartered Accountants Ireland, Western Society SDG week Brigit's Garden tour Sustainable Development Goals Week Ireland 2025 will unite communities and businesses in a nationwide effort to promote sustainability and environmental responsibility. We will mark the week with an interactive and engaging tour of Brigit's Garden finishing with a Brigit’s cross making demonstration and of course a coffee. Brigit‘s Garden is regarded as one of the most picturesque gardens of Ireland, set in 11 acres of beautiful grounds with many features to explore and delight in. In person, Saturday 27 September 2025 | 11:00am | Brigit's Garden, Roscahill, H91 CC90 Climate Cocktail Club, Climate Carnival Blending business, innovation, finance, music, activism and science for bold brave leadership, this pioneering two-day event for changemakers aims to inspire, entertain and explore radical and creative solutions to drive planetary impact now. In person, 29 – 30 September | Ballintubbert House, Ballintubbert House, Stradbally, Co. Laois, R14 E954. International Society of Sustainability Professionals Webinar: Driving Sustainable Change: Integrating Change Management for Positive Outcomes This webinar will delve into the critical role of change management in advancing sustainability initiatives. Participants will explore how effective change management strategies can lead to more impactful and lasting positive outcomes for both people and the planet. Through practical insights and real-world examples, this session aims to equip sustainability professionals with new knowledge and tools to drive meaningful change at multiple scales. Virtual, Tuesday, 30 September, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM (EDT) Trinity Business School, Signs of a Healthy Economy: Redefining Economic Value In this lunchtime seminar, Mieke Siebers, Executive Director of the Foundation for Sustainable Development, explores the role of our economic systems and how we can rethink economic value in the face of climate change and biodiversity loss. From scientific standards on ecosystem services to natural capital accounting, she will show how business and management can help build resilient, mission-driven economies fit for the 21st century. In person (Trinity Business School) and virtual (Zoom), 30 September, 1-2pm EFRAG, The VSME Standard in Action: From the European Commission’s Recommendation to Digital Solutions EFRAG is running a hybrid VSME Outreach Event on 6 October 2025 at which the European Commission will present on its Recommendation, with reactions from policymakers, banks and SMEs. Attendees will discover the EFRAG VSME Ecosystem and digital tools and learn from practical SME experiences and case studies. Virtual and in person, 6 October 2025, 10am-1pm CET   French Embassy, DCU Institute for Climate and Society,  The legacy of the Paris Agreement A discussion on the legacy of the Paris Climate Change Agreement, which was signed 10 years ago. Speakers include Benoît Faraco, France's climate ambassador, and Eamon Ryan, former Minister for Environment, Climate and Communications. The event is free and open to the public. Places are limited, so please register. In person, October 8, 16:00-18:00, Europe House, Chatham Street, Dublin 2. Diversity Mark, Diversity Mark Annual Summit 2025 This event will explore how diversity and inclusion can drive sustainable business growth, gathering over 300 business leaders, executives, and inclusion advocates for a full-day programme featuring keynote speakers and breakout sessions. It aims to equip attendees with practical strategies to create more inclusive workplaces and foster meaningful change across sectors. In person, 8 October 2025, Titanic Belfast Accountancy Europe, Is the public sector sustainable? Find out about the latest developments to promote sustainability reporting alongside financial reporting in the public sector, the specific challenges facing the public sector, what can be learnt from experience in the private sector. Virtual, 8 October 2025, 14:30–16:00 CEST   Sustainability Centre You can find information, guidance and supports to understand sustainability and meet the challenges it presents in our online Sustainability Centre.   

The implementation of the new Auto-Enrolment Retirement Savings Scheme is now only three months away. My Future Fund will affect 800,000 members of the workforce and every employer in Ireland, but our research has indicated that preparedness among businesses remains worrying low; only 2 in 5 (40%) respondents felt that they had been adequately informed of the steps needed to implement it in time for its January launch.    A new public body, the National Automatic Enrolment Retirement Savings Authority (NAERSA), will administer the auto-enrolment scheme, and we were pleased to note that the NAERSA Board, appointed earlier this month, includes two Chartered Accountants Ireland members.   Equipping businesses with the necessary information in the coming weeks is going to be crucial to making auto enrolment a success. Chartered Accountants Ireland will hold a free in-person lunchtime event on auto-enrolment on Thursday 16 October at Chartered Accountants House.   The first in our “Trusted Business Leadership: The Chartered Roundtables”, series, this event will feature perspectives from Shane O’Farrell, Director of Workplace Markets, Irish Life Employer Solutions, Tony Culhane, Solution Design Lead, Sage, and Cróna Clohisey, Director of Members and Advocacy, Chartered Accountants Ireland.   The Institute also believes that there is an ongoing need for government to bridge this information deficit and equip businesses with the support and guidance they need as we approach January.