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  In this week’s Sustainability/ESG Bulletin read about a new report into Ireland’s energy vulnerabilities, the ‘climate protection gap’ in Ireland’s Action Plan for Insurance Reform, high-level ESG data evaluating Irish business, Ireland’s accession to the Equal Pay International Coalition, and a report showing strong motivation among SMEs to increase sustainability. Also covered is the consultation on Northern Ireland’s 4th Carbon Budget, the European Commission’s adoption of the ‘VSME’, a call for evidence on climate resilience, the future long-term EU budget, the ICJ’s ruling in one of the world’s largest climate cases, and the usual podcasts, articles, resources and upcoming events.   Chartered Accountants Ireland Chartered Accountants Ireland has launched its Autumn/Winter programme offering, which includes sustainability-focused Specialist Qualifications: Diploma in Sustainability Reporting (Starting 25 September) Diploma in Auditing and Assuring Sustainability Reporting (Starting 25 September) Certificate in Sustainability Strategy, Risk and Reporting (Starting 7 October)   IRELAND NESC reports finds Ireland’s fossil fuel import-dependency ‘a strategic vulnerability’ A report from the advisory council of the National Economic and Social Council (NESC) is warning that Ireland’s fossil fuel import-dependency is a strategic vulnerability, and that cost-competitiveness challenges must be addressed if Ireland is to become a significant net exporter of renewable energy. The report, which examines how Ireland’s energy trade will evolve over the energy transition, recommends moving away from reliance on imported fossil fuels towards a more complex and interdependent European energy system based on renewables. Department of Finance publishes Energy, Environmental and Vehicle Tax paper The total yield from energy and vehicle taxes was €5 billion in 2024, representing 5.2 percent of overall tax receipts for 2024. This is according to the Energy, nvironmental and Vehicle Tax paper of the Tax Strategy Group (TSG), published by the Department of Finance ahead of this year’s Budget. The paper considers taxation as a lever for climate action and provides updates on energy and vehicle taxes across five chapters: Mineral Oil Tax, Carbon Tax, Electricity Tax, EU and International Measures, and Motor Vehicle Tax. Ireland for Finance Strategy 2026-2030 - Consultation Paper The Department of Finance has opened a public consultation on a new Ireland for Finance Strategy 2026-2030, in line with commitments under the Programme for Government, which includes a particular focus on the further development of the sustainable finance sector. Stakeholders are now invited to submit their views on how Ireland can maintain and grow its position as a leading global hub for specialist international financial services. The public consultation period will run until 19 September 2025. The ‘climate protection gap’ in the Government’s Action Plan on Insurance Reform The Government has published a new Action Plan on Insurance Reform with a range of priorities aimed at lowering insurance premiums. The Plan seeks to deepen reform across six key pillars, reflecting both long-standing structural issues and the new risks and opportunities facing today’s economy: transparency & affordability; competitiveness & availability; legal reform; fraud; climate protection; and innovation & skills. The Plan describes climate change as presenting a significant challenge, with increasing frequency and severity of extreme weather events highlighting the urgent need to reduce the ‘climate protection gap’. This is defined by the European Commission in reference to the share of non-insured economic losses in total losses after a climate-related catastrophe event. In recent years, it has also been used to refer to the notional gap between likely climate-related impacts and existing resilience measures. Describing the need for the insurance sector to be “not just reactive to climate risk, but a proactive force for climate resilience and adaptation”, the new Action Plan on Insurance Reform commits the Government to working with the EU and international partners to align capital frameworks with climate resilience; and with all relevant stakeholders to increase access to coverage in vulnerable areas. It also commits to continuing to integrate climate-related risks into supervisory and consumer protection frameworks. Finally, it calls on insurers themselves to lead by developing new products, investing in green assets, and supporting nature-based solutions. Business in Ireland 2023 - Environmental, Social, Governance of Enterprises The Central Statistics Office (CSO) has published high-level ESG data evaluating business in Ireland in 2023 against Environmental, Social, Governance of Enterprises metrics. The release reports that Irish enterprises are making progress in terms of increasing the use of clean energy, but there is more to be done in reducing the use of fossil fuels to lessen environmental emissions. In 2023, transport fuels, solid fuels and petroleum fuels accounted for 54 percent of business energy use, meaning there is a significant journey to go to achieve Ireland's National Climate Ambition of a 51 percent reduction from the 2018 figure by 2030.   The release describes the regulatory landscape regarding sustainability reporting, in particular, but notes “What seems clear though is that the ‘science has not changed’” and states that enterprises will be expected to play their part in terms of sustainability, for reasons of market share, risk-management and the Government’s emphasis on the policy goal of decarbonisation. Ireland joins the Equal Pay International Coalition (EPIC) Minister of State for Small Business, Retail and Employment Alan Dillon has announced Ireland’s accession to the Equal Pay International Coalition (EPIC). This is a multilateral partnership working to reduce the gender pay gap at global, regional and national levels. EPIC is led by the International Labour Organization (ILO), UN Women, and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). It brings together governments, employer and worker organisations, academia, civil society and private sector entities to tackle the gender pay gap through coordinated action. Strong motivation among SMEs to increase sustainability A report from the Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland (SBCI) reveals strong motivation among SMEs to increase the sustainability of their business. The research conducted for the SME Outlook Report 2025 found that costs, access to finance and tariffs are biggest worries for Irish SMEs, who are prioritising energy efficiency over other sustainable investments. Solar panels remain the most popular green investment among SMEs, but evidence that many businesses are shifting towards more complex investments (such as building-integrated systems for heating and ventilation) suggests that more SMEs are taking a strategic approach to sustainability, focusing on lowering energy costs and improving sustainability at an operational level.   UK/NORTHERN IRELAND Consultation on carbon budgets to provide certainty to investors and business DAERA has launched a consultation on Northern Ireland’s Fourth Carbon Budget which suggests an average annual reduction of 77 percent against a 1990 baseline across the budgetary period 2038-2042. A carbon budget is the maximum amount of greenhouse gases that can be emitted in a given 5-year period and is expressed as an annual average percentage reduction level over that period. The first three carbon budgets for Northern Ireland were published in December 2024, covering the period from 2023 to 2037. Commenting, Minister Andrew Muir MLA, said that "Whilst 2038 is 12 years away, it is important to set out a trajectory now, not only to meet the legal requirements set out in the Act, but to provide certainty to investors, businesses and to allow for gradual transition which can be delivered in a fair and just way as we work to reduce our emissions.” The 16-week consultation will run until 17 November 2025.   EUROPE Commission adopts recommendation on voluntary sustainability reporting for SMEs The Commission has adopted a recommendation on voluntary sustainability reporting for small and medium-sized companies (SMEs). The voluntary standard for SMEs - the VSME – was developed by EFRAG, the Commission’s technical advisory body for sustainability reporting. Designed for companies with fewer than 250 employees, the VSME standard aims to reduce administrative burden on SMEs by making it easier for them to respond to requests for sustainability information from large companies and financial institutions which are subject to mandatory reporting under the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), and which have such SMEs in their value chains. It also aims to help SMEs improve access to finance through better ESG transparency, managing sustainability risks and opportunities effectively, and contributing to a more sustainable and inclusive economy. EFRAG has created information modules, ready-to-use digital tools and templates, explainer videos, digital templates, and guidance, which is has published on the official EFRAG VSME webpage. ‘Climate factor’ to be introduced by European Central Bank The Governing Council of the European Central Bank (ECB) has announced that it will add climate change considerations to its lending operations to better manage financial risks related to the climate crisis. In a press release, the ECB explained it will introduce a “climate factor” which could “reduce the value assigned to eligible assets pledged as collateral, depending on the extent to which an asset can be impacted by these uncertainties”. This, the ECB says, will act as a buffer against the possible financial impact of uncertainties related to climate change. The measure is due to be implemented in the second half of 2026. EFRAG’s report finds low level of reporting on climate transition plans Initial feedback on reports from the so-called ‘first-wave’ of companies in scope of the CSRD have been published in a report from EFRAG. The report found that, among other things, there is a low level of reporting on climate transition plans, with most omitting information on key elements like funding. Only 55 percent disclose a climate transition plan at all, while only 70 percent commit to 1.5°C targets for Scope 1 & 2 emissions, and only 40 percent for Scope 3 emissions. Over 90 percent considered just three topical standards to be material: Climate Change (E1), Own Workforce (S1), and Business Conduct (G1) and biodiversity remains underreported, with fewer than 30 percent of preparers including biodiversity metrics. Call for evidence on European climate resilience and risk management initiative The European Commission has published a Call for Evidence on climate resilience. Running until 4 September, the call is aimed at receiving input from stakeholders and citizens to fill knowledge and evidence gaps in areas such as climate risk assessments and disclosure, regulatory frameworks and standards, governance and oversight, incentives and enforcement, financial frameworks, cross-border cooperation and consistency, sector policy commitments and contributions, stakeholder engagement and participation, emerging socio-economic trends, and technological innovation. The responses will feed into the Commission’s preparations for a new European climate resilience and risk management integrated framework, which is due for publication by the end of 2026.  Large majority of Europeans consider climate action economically necessary and beneficial A large majority of Europeans continue to view climate change as a serious global threat, with 85 percent of citizens identifying it as a major problem. This is according to the 2025 Eurobarometer report on climate change, the collection of cross-country public opinion surveys conducted regularly on behalf of the EU Institutions. The 2025 report found that support for EU climate policy remains strong across the EU, with 81 percent backing the EU-wide goal of climate neutrality by 2050. A growing share of Europeans (38 percent) reported feeing personally exposed to environmental and climate-related risks. Citizens also see climate action not only as necessary but beneficial—both economically and socially, with over three-quarters (77 percent) agreeing that the cost of damage caused by climate change outweighs the cost of transitioning to a climate-neutral economy. 88 percent support greater investment in renewables and energy efficiency, 75 percent believe reducing fossil fuel imports will enhance energy security and benefit the EU economically, and citizens see national governments (66 percent), the EU (59 percent), and business and industry (58 percent) as best placed to tackle climate change. “Green is the defining color of China-EU cooperation” at EU-China Summit The 25th EU-China summit took place in Beijing, China, last week at which the EU reiterated its commitment to deepen its engagement with China and to enhance cooperation in order to address joint global challenges. The parties issued a joint press statement on climate change in which they agreed that ‘green is the defining color of China-EU cooperation’, and that both parties would step up efforts to address climate change. Commenting, President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen described the statement as a ‘big step forward’: “We both see the opportunities to work closer together in sectors such as emissions trading, carbon capture and storage or the circular economy. And our cooperation can set a global benchmark. Together, the EU and China must uphold the Paris Agreement now more than ever.” European Commission proposes new long-term EU budget The European Commission has presented its proposal for a future long-term EU budget and revenue system. It is proposing a Multiannual Financial Framework (“MFF”) amounting to almost €2 trillion which aims to be more flexible, simpler, adaptable to local needs, and able to give a competitiveness boost to the region. Opinion is reportedly divided on certain elements of the proposal, for example, a proposal to pool a number of existing funding programs into a single "Competitiveness Fund", with fears of money previously ringfenced for climate and nature being redirected to industrial programmes instead.  The decision on the future long-term EU budget and revenue system will be discussed by Member States in the Council, acting by unanimity, with the consent of the European Parliament, and where relevant, ratification by national parliaments for the revenue.  WORLD International Court of Justice issues landmark opinion on climate change In one of the world’s largest climate cases, the UN’s highest court, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) has ruled that States have an obligation to protect the environment from greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and act with due diligence and cooperation to fulfil this obligation. Arguing that “a clean, healthy and sustainable environment is a precondition for the enjoyment of many human rights,” the Court found that countries that fail to meet their obligations under international climate treaties are in breach of international law. During his presentation of the opinion, ICJ President Yuji Iwasawa stated that "states must cooperate to achieve concrete emission reduction targets” and described climate change as “an existential problem of planetary proportions that imperils all forms of life and the very health of our planet.” Commenting, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres described the advisory opinion as “a victory for our planet, for climate justice, and for the power of young people to make a difference.” Although not legally binding, the case will have global implications for climate litigation, potentially opening the door for countries impacted by climate change to litigate against larger nations to force more climate action. It may also reportedly have consequences for businesses, if a call for states to take action to reduce emissions serves to reinforce climate policy measures already in motion.   Earlier this year, a paper published in the science journal Nature detailed the scientific and legal implications of an ‘end-to-end’ attribution linking fossil fuel producers to specific damages from warming. The paper offered, for the first time, a robust framework linking emissions from specific fossil fuel companies to extreme heat events and associated economic losses, potentially enabling courts to assign accountability for damages, something historically seen as too diffuse. Just 36 companies have reportedly been identified as responsible for half of global emissions. SBTI launches Financial Institutions Net-Zero (FINZ) Standard The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) has launched its Financial Institutions Net-Zero (FINZ) Standard, guiding banks and investors in setting net-zero targets across lending, investment, insurance, and capital markets. To align, institutions must commit to net-zero by 2050 or earlier and identify ‘in-scope’ financial activities representing at least 5 percent of revenue. The standard prioritises fossil fuels, requiring institutions to publish policies to end project finance explicitly linked to fossil fuel expansion by 2030. Despite scrutiny of net-zero efforts, the FINZ Standard reinforces SBTi’s commitment to helping financial institutions align with global climate goals. The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) is responsible for aligning corporate environmental sustainability action with global climate goals. Earth Overshoot Day – 24 July Earth Overshoot Day fell on 24 July this year, according to the international nonprofit Global Footprint Network. Earth Overshoot Day is the day on which when humanity’s demand for ecological resources and services in a given year exceeds what Earth can regenerate in that year. Country Overshoot Days mark the date when the planet’s annual ‘biocapacity’ budget would be used up if everyone on Earth lived at the same level of consumption as the residents of that particular country. Ireland’s overshoot day was 17 May, the United Kingdom’s was 20 May. Resources The ISSB Update has published, summarising the July 2025 International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) meeting. A second post from sustainability consultancy SustainabilityWorks explores what the EU’s Clean Industrial Deal really means for business Nature intelligence company Natcap has published interviews with 13 sustainability leaders show what’s really driving action on nature in 2025, how nature is no longer a compliance exercise but a core business risk, and where the roadblocks remain, from data gaps to “framework fatigue.” Podcasts ISSB Chair Emmanuel Faber and Vice-Chair Sue Lloyd share insights (16 min, 47 seconds) Outrage + Optimism: The ICJ Climate Opinion Explained (53 minutes) “And it was unanimous!”  The International Court of Justice has just delivered a landmark advisory opinion on climate change and human rights - could this transform global climate action and accountability? Articles ESG Mid-Year Update: Who Still Cares, and Why You Should (FTI Consulting) Why business won’t abandon sustainability as a long-term play (Reuters) ESG assets surpass $3.5tn globally for the first time amid challenges (FT – Sustainable Views - Subscription) Are we underestimating progress on climate action? (Blog - Institute for Human Rights and Business) EU and China say ‘green is the colour of co-operation’ in climate leadership pledge (FT) Major nations agree on first-ever global fee on greenhouse gases with plan that targets shipping (Associated Press) Voluntary carbon market turns corner amid behind-the-scenes reform (Sustainable Views - Subscriber) One Pacific Nation’s Court Case Opens New Era for Climate Lawsuits (Bloomberg Green) EU budget plan would deal ‘devastating blow’ to nature (Politico.eu) Action needs to be taken to reverse recent decline in women securing leadership roles in Irish business (Irish Times)    Events Business for Biodiversity Ireland,  Webinar: Introducing the Nature-Based Enterprise This webinar on new market opportunities in nature-based solutions will bring together communities of nature-based enterprises, working with and for nature, delivering nature-based solutions helping to address business dependencies and risks from nature loss and climate change.  Whether you are interested in benefiting from nature-based solutions to climate adaptation, developing new products and services, you are a start-up business in this area, or you will have businesses like these in your supply chain, this webinar provides a good understanding of how your business can participate in the nature positive economy and go nature positive!  Virtual (Teams), 20 August, 12-1pm UN Global Compact (Swiss Network) Managing Risks in Supply Chains: When On-Demand Labour Becomes Forced Labour How does your business model and sourcing strategy cause or contribute to social and environmental risks along your value chain; and how exposed are your business activities to risks embedded in your purchased goods and services?  This series of webinars (convened by the UNGC’s Swiss Network) will take you through innovative approaches to conducting risk assessments and gaining actionable insights that can then be addressed through collaborative, data-driven approaches with measurable results. Using a case study approach the Equiception team will share their experiences in multiple economic sectors and regions of the world with a special focus on decent working conditions, forced labour and child labour.  Webinar, 28 August 2025 | 12:30-14:00   Business in the Community, Accredited carbon literacy training This Accredited Carbon Literacy Training session event is hosted by Business in the Community Northern Ireland, and aims to equip participants with the knowledge and skills to understand and act on climate change, helping organizations reduce their carbon footprint. The training is certified and designed to support sustainability leadership across sectors.  In person, Wednesday, 3 September 9:00 - 17:00, Craigavon Civic Centre, 66 Lakeview Rd, Craigavon BT64 1AL,   ICAEW, Sustainability in Practice A morning of expert-led discussion, practical exercises, and peer learning—all focused on helping you build and deliver impactful sustainability services. In person, 3 September, 8.30-12.00, Chartered Accountant Hall, Moorgate Place, London, EC2R6EA   UN Global Compact (Swiss Network) Managing Risks in Supply Chains: Does High Quality Equal Compliance? The case of surgical goods made by children This is the third and last session of our three-part webinar series on 'Managing Risks in Supply Chains: A Series for Data-Driven Action'. This last session focuses on the case of surgical goods made by children. Are high-quality goods more likely to be produced in high-quality facilities? The value chain of surgical instruments proves otherwise. Children can be found grinding "Made in Germany" scalpels in informal sector workshops in Pakistan. Worse, this situation has been repeatedly exposed over three decades. What can companies learn from this case and how can public and private procurement and sourcing professionals avoid similar risks?  Webinar, 18 September 2025 | 12:30-14:00   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, October 2025, Titanic Belfast  Sustainability Centre You can find information, guidance and supports to understand sustainability and meet the challenges it presents in our online Sustainability Centre.  

  In this week’s Sustainability/ESG Bulletin read about how green teams can boost business, updates on Ireland’s policies for energy, sustainability reporting, and green public procurement, Ireland’s reaffirmed commitment to the UN SDGs, progress on Climate Action Plans and a consultation on a sectoral adaptation plan for flood risk. Also covered is the UK’s decision against a Green Taxonomy and a report into its climate and biodiversity solutions, the European Commission’s consultation on how to simplify environmental legislation by cutting red tape, and the usual podcasts, articles, resources and upcoming events. Chartered Accountants Ireland Sustainability from within: how green teams can boost business Green teams are gaining traction in organisations as a practical way to drive sustainability from within. In this article in Accountancy Ireland Briefly Susan Rossney Sustainability Advocacy Manager at Chartered Accountants Ireland describes how by fostering green teams, businesses can not only build internal sustainability capacity but also future-proof their organisations, creating value for employees, customers and the planet alike. Ireland ‘Stopping the clock’ on sustainability reporting regulation The Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke, has signed a Statutory Instrument to give legal effect in Ireland to the EU’s “Stop the Clock” Directive on Corporate Sustainability Reporting. These regulations ensure that the original Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) will not apply to so-called Wave 2 and Wave 3 companies for a further two years respectively, while the European Commission’s Omnibus proposal is being negotiated and agreed. Chartered Accountants Ireland’s coverage of the announcement can be found here. Government sets out commitment to sustainable development Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment Darragh O'Brien has set out Ireland’s commitment to sustainable development at the United Nations 'High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development' (HLPF) in New York this week. As Ireland marks the 70th anniversary of its membership of the UN this year, Minister O’Brien reiterated Ireland's commitment to multilateralism and called for a coordinated approach at national and international levels to address the complex and crosscutting nature of today’s global challenges. Separately, it was announced that Ireland’s fourth Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Week, hosted by the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment, will take place from 19–28 September 2025, alongside European SDG Week. This week aims to raise awareness and celebrate progress on the SDGs and invites interested parties to register their events at www.esdn.eu/esdw. Green Public Procurement Circular publishes The Government has approved a new Circular to boost Green Public Procurement (GPP) across the public sector. The approval follows public consultation undertaken by the Office of Government Procurement (OGP) to inform the development of Ireland’s first National Public Procurement Strategy, the core themes of which will be green, social, and innovative procurement, scheduled for recommendation to Government later this year, and. The (OGP) has been tasked with playing a leadership role in embedding green public procurement across the public sector and ensuring compulsory reporting on GPP, so that progress in this area can be monitored. The Circular, which was introduced to ensure delivery on commitments in the Programme for Government; Securing Ireland’s Future includes a measure encouraging public sector bodies to pay particular consideration to any potential impact on SMEs when applying GPP practice. It also encourages public sector bodies to consider the ‘total price of a product’, including purchase price, operating costs and end-of-life costs. Draft Climate Change Sectoral Adaptation Plan for Flood Risk Management publishes The Office of Public Works (OPW) has published a draft Climate Change Sectoral Adaptation Plan for Flood Risk Management for public consultation. The Plan considers the impacts of climate change on flooding and flood risk, reflecting the increasing effects of climate change on weather patterns, and the risk of flooding in Ireland becoming a critical concern in relation to impacts on communities, infrastructure, the economy, and ecosystems. The Plan sets out adaptation actions needed to ensure effective and sustainable management of flood risk into the future. Submissions, observations, and comments on the draft Plan are invited before 15 August 2025. Climate Action Plan progress report publishes Four of the six new actions of the 2025 Climate Action Plan (CAP25) that were due to be completed during Quarter 1 of 2025 were delivered on time, according to the recently published Quarter 1 Progress Report.  The report focuses on the six sectors with the highest greenhouse gas emissions, as well as on cross-cutting actions. It also provides updates on sectoral Key Performance Indicators, emissions trends and high impact case studies. Government announces number of energy updates The Government has announced a number of updates to energy including in the areas of electricity generation and grid infrastructure, funding for district heating and greater cooperation on energy transition. As part of the National Development Plan the Government has approved a €3.5 billion investment in Ireland's electricity grid infrastructure (2026-2030), the largest single investment in the country’s electricity network in its history. This investment aims to strengthen Ireland’s energy security, support economic growth and accelerate our transition to renewable energy. The enhanced grid will be crucial to deliver on key Programme for Government commitments, including achieving 80 percent renewable electricity by 2030. Separately, Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment Darragh O'Brien has approved the allocation of €5 million to support pre-construction development costs for efficient district heating projects in Ireland, and for the introduction of the Renewable Heat Obligation Scheme (RHO), which aims to help to reduce Ireland’s reliance on imported fossil fuels and to strengthen our energy security. Government approval has also been granted for a new policy on 'Private Wires', a reform of the rules on electricity infrastructure. This is intended to unlock private sector investment in electricity infrastructure (particularly renewable generation and storage), facilitate the provision of low-cost charging solution for Electric Vehicles, and expand opportunities for self-supply of electricity. The Minister also signed an extension to the 2023 energy Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with UK Climate Minister Kerry McCarthy for increased cooperation between both countries in the energy transition. Increase in female representation in finance leadership Female representation in senior roles in Ireland’s financial services has significantly increased over the past three years, according to the latest report by the Women in Finance Charter. This industry-led and Government-supported initiative is aimed at increasing participation of women at all levels of business in financial services in Ireland. It now includes 100 firms – including Chartered Accountants Ireland – employing over 72,000 people. Key findings show board-level female representation rose from 30.3 percent to 43.4 percent, senior management from 36.2 percent to 43.4 percent, and female CEOs from 19.4 percent to 22.6 percent, reflecting steady progress since 2022. AIB launches Business Sustainability Loan AIB has launched a new low-cost green and transition loan to help businesses transition to a low carbon economy. The Business Sustainability Loan aims to support all businesses, including farmers, clubs, trusts and charities seeking to green their operation. Complementing AIB’s Steps to Sustainability Programme which supports businesses to plan for a greener future, the loan is available at a variable interest rate of 4.95 percent for amounts between €2,000 to a maximum of €100,000, for each eligible loan purpose and is repayable between one and seven years. It supports businesses investing in green and transition measures including renewable energy systems, forestry, green buildings (commercial and residential), zero emission vehicles, circular economy and waste management. All of these changes can help reduce costs for businesses. Applications can be made in branch, via advisors or on the phone, with quick decisioning and e-signing. Northern Ireland/UK Discount of up to £3,750 on electric cars The UK government has announced a £650 million Electric Car Grant (ECG), offering discounts of up to £3,750 per car for new electric vehicles priced at or under £37,000. The initiative aims to support the transition from petrol and diesel cars, aligning with the goal to phase out their sales by 2030. Starting from 16 July, manufacturers can apply for their zero-emission cars to be included in the scheme, with funding available until the 2028-2029 financial year. This grant is expected to save drivers up to £1,500 annually in fuel and running costs compared to petrol cars. The scheme is part of a broader £4.5 billion investment to promote EV adoption, including £63 million for home charging infrastructure and transitioning NHS fleets to electric. The initiative is part of the government’s Plan for Change, aiming to support economic growth and make EV ownership more accessible. UK government decides against Green Taxonomy The UK government has announced that it will not introduce a Green Taxonomy as a means of guiding companies and investors on what is a green investment, reportedly citing mixed feedback from investment groups and concerns about policy clarity. Instead, the government announced its intention to focus on other policies, including those pertaining to sustainability reporting. This decision is part of the Financial Services growth plan announced on 15 July. The government aims to establish the UK as a global hub for green finance, while other jurisdictions continue developing their own taxonomies. Report into UK government’s climate and biodiversity solutions The UK government has published a report presenting examples of how it is implementing solutions to meet its global commitments on climate change and biodiversity loss across England, and describing the potential avenues it is exploring to further enhance its approach. The report, Unlocking benefits for people, nature and climate: Actions to jointly address climate change and biodiversity loss in England, focuses on priority sectors, including climate and nature integration, delivery of clean energy, supporting a rural economy, restoring our seas,  and mobilising green finance. The report describes the UK as “a leader in natural capital accounting”, which is a means of valuing nature in terms of its ability to deliver essential services, such as carbon sequestration, flood protection, and urban cooling.  In the Foreword, report authors Minister Mary Creagh and Minister Kerry McCarthy MP state that “By maximising co-benefits we will strengthen our resilience, including our long-term fiscal sustainability, reducing the systemic risks associated with climate change and nature loss”. Europe European Commission opens call for evidence on how to simplify environmental legislation The European Commission has opened a call for evidence on how to simplify environmental legislation by cutting red tape while upholding and better achieving the EU’s environmental objectives of this legislation. The call serves to identify EU environmental policies that could be simplified for businesses without affecting the EU’s environmental objectives or the protection of human health, such as those policies concerning the circular economy, industrial emissions and waste management. The initiative is aligned with key EU initiatives, such as the Competitiveness Compass, and with the Commission’s work programme for 2025, which set the target of cutting administrative burden by at least 25 percent for all companies and at least 35 percent for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The Compass also calls for accelerated permitting for sectors in transition to a clean and digital economy.  These actions tie in with the announcements made in the 2025 Single Market Strategy, in particular regarding EPR. All stakeholders are encouraged to respond using the Have Your Say portal. The feedback period for the Call for Evidence is open until the 10 September 2025. Joint statement calls on EU to preserve EU sustainable finance framework Accountancy Europe has endorsed a joint statement calling on EU policymakers to preserve the core of the EU sustainable finance framework. The statement stresses the importance of maintaining strong sustainability rules – on reporting, transition plans, climate targets, and due diligence – as part of the EU’s economic and sustainability ambitions. It also encourages policymakers to safeguard the key elements of the CSRD, ESRS and CSDDD in light of the Omnibus I simplification initiative, key elements it states are essential to directing investment towards the green transition and strengthening the EU’s capital markets. The statement also asserts that while regulatory simplification is possible, is should not be at the expense of the substance or benefits of sustainability rules. Signatories to the statement include leading organisations Eurosif - The European Sustainable Investment Forum; the Institutional Investors Group on Climate Change (IIGCC); Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI); CLG Europe, Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) and E3G. EU Clean Industrial Deal – short-guide Interested in a short guide to the EU’s Clean Industrial Deal? More than a green strategy, the Deal is a blueprint for economic resilience through climate innovation. SustainabilityWorks has a super-short guide here 🌍 💡 WORLD The IFRS Foundation has published ‘near-final examples’ demonstrating how companies can improve the reporting of uncertainties in their financial statements using climate-related examples as practical illustrations. This early publication is intended to support timely and informed application. Podcast Chartered Accountants Worldwide, Episode 3: How to stay resilient, stay balanced — and help save the planet (4 minutes, 21 seconds) The third episode of the Chartered Accountants Worldwide Audio Newsletter explores the vital themes of resilience, work–life balance, and the emerging discipline of carbon accounting. Designed for busy professionals, it delivers practical tools and thought-provoking insights to help chartered accountants thrive in a complex, ever-evolving world. Articles National Development Plan to help Ireland meet climate goals, says Taoiseach (Irish Times) Innovative data centre pilot with leading energy providers combats ‘greenwashing’ (Business Post) Irish firms strengthen DE&I commitments while others retreat, survey finds (Business Post) Catastrophe bond sales hit record as insurers offload climate risks (FT) We need to talk about AI’s staggering ecological impact (Irish Times) An unexpected green roof benefit: purging urban rainfall of practically all microplastics (Anthropocene Magazine) EU to compensate exporting industries for carbon levy (Reuters)  Resources The July Accounting for Sustainability (A4S) newsletter has published with: Guidance for organisation on aligning transition and financial planning The Transition Finance Playbook: A practical guide for financial institutions  to scale up their transition finance activities The Finance for the Future Awards winners A recap of the A4S Summit 2025 An update on the strategic partnership between Social Value International (SVI) and A4S to advance the ‘True & Fair Project’, SVI’s global initiative to ensure that sustainability is not sidelined in financial decision making. A link to the TNFD 2025 Status Report Survey, which will track the global uptake of nature-related assessment and reporting practices and will inform the 2025 Status Report, launching during Climate Week NYC. Sign up to receive the A4S newsletter. Events Business for Biodiversity Ireland,  Webinar: Introducing the Nature-Based Enterprise This webinar on new market opportunities in nature-based solutions will bring together communities of nature-based enterprises, working with and for nature, delivering nature-based solutions helping to address business dependencies and risks from nature loss and climate change.  Whether you are interested in benefiting from nature-based solutions to climate adaptation, developing new products and services, you are a start-up business in this area, or you will have businesses like these in your supply chain, this webinar provides a good understanding of how your business can participate in the nature positive economy and go nature positive!  Virtual (Teams), 20 August, 12-1pm UN Global Compact (Swiss Network) Managing Risks in Supply Chains: When On-Demand Labour Becomes Forced Labour How does your business model and sourcing strategy cause or contribute to social and environmental risks along your value chain; and how exposed are your business activities to risks embedded in your purchased goods and services?  This series of webinars (convened by the UNGC’s Swiss Network) will take you through innovative approaches to conducting risk assessments and gaining actionable insights that can then be addressed through collaborative, data-driven approaches with measurable results. Using a case study approach the Equiception team will share their experiences in multiple economic sectors and regions of the world with a special focus on decent working conditions, forced labour and child labour.  Webinar, 28 August 2025 | 12:30-14:00   Business in the Community, Accredited carbon literacy training This Accredited Carbon Literacy Training session event is hosted by Business in the Community Northern Ireland, and aims to equip participants with the knowledge and skills to understand and act on climate change, helping organizations reduce their carbon footprint. The training is certified and designed to support sustainability leadership across sectors.  In person, Wednesday, 3 September 9:00 - 17:00, Craigavon Civic Centre, 66 Lakeview Rd, Craigavon BT64 1AL,   ICAEW, Sustainability in Practice A morning of expert-led discussion, practical exercises, and peer learning—all focused on helping you build and deliver impactful sustainability services. In person, 3 September, 8.30-12.00, Chartered Accountant Hall, Moorgate Place, London, EC2R6EA   UN Global Compact (Swiss Network) Managing Risks in Supply Chains: Does High Quality Equal Compliance? The case of surgical goods made by children This is the third and last session of our three-part webinar series on 'Managing Risks in Supply Chains: A Series for Data-Driven Action'. This last session focuses on the case of surgical goods made by children. Are high-quality goods more likely to be produced in high-quality facilities? The value chain of surgical instruments proves otherwise. Children can be found grinding "Made in Germany" scalpels in informal sector workshops in Pakistan. Worse, this situation has been repeatedly exposed over three decades. What can companies learn from this case and how can public and private procurement and sourcing professionals avoid similar risks?  Webinar, 18 September 2025 | 12:30-14:00   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, October 2025, Titanic Belfast  Sustainability Centre You can find information, guidance and supports to understand sustainability and meet the challenges it presents in our online Sustainability Centre.  

Cróna Clohisey, Director of Members and Advocacy, Chartered Accountants Ireland said “Today’s revised National Development Plan (NDP) is a strong statement of intent towards securing Ireland’s competitiveness in the coming decade. It is encouraging to see such significant emphasis on addressing housing over the next five years. 1 in 4 SMEs surveyed by Chartered Accountants Ireland in April reported that their business has lost employees or seen prospective employees unable to take a role due to the unavailability of affordable housing. “Housing is only one element of the puzzle, however. We know the critical levers to delivery also include energy and water, so these significant deficits in the State’s infrastructure need to be addressed holistically if Ireland is to fully realise its ambition of becoming a place where businesses can thrive. Today’s announcements are a step in the right direction. “Another of the most frequent barriers encountered by our 40,000 members is access to childcare. Despite featuring as a key commitment in the Programme for Government, the revised NDP lacks detail on how more childcare places will be created for working parents. Greater priority must be given to an issue that so fundamentally affects the labour market. “As an all-island body, the Institute also welcomes the focus in the NDP on the Shared Island Fund, and we look forward to engaging with stakeholders on how the NDP will deliver cross-border infrastructure projects.”

Last week, the Minister for Social Protection, Dara Calleary T.D. launched a major national awareness campaign for the new Automatic Enrolment Retirement Savings System, called ‘My Future Fund’. In addition to the campaign, information resources are also available including a dedicated online hub and information videos. The available resources provide details on how auto enrolment will work, who will be auto enrolled, contribution rates and relevant information for employers and employee. Announcing the launch of the campaign, Minister Calleary said: “I believe that My Future Fund will transform how people save for their retirement. This landmark policy will help hundreds of thousands of hardworking people in Ireland put money aside for their life after work. Auto Enrolment has been talked about for decades. I am delighted that this is finally happening. My Future Fund will mean that two-out-of-three private sector employees who currently have no supplementary pension will get to enjoy a greater sense of wellbeing and financial freedom in the future."

  In this week’s Sustainability/ESG Bulletin read about EV fleet assessment grants, a UN progress report on Ireland by the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women, the UK survey identifying growth in the number of mid-tier UK firms planning to offer ESG-related services, and the launch by the European Commission of a Roadmap towards Nature Credits. Also covered is the rise in climate litigation and the publication of ‘investor explainer’ on climate policy engagement disclosure, as well as the usual resources, articles, and upcoming events.   Ireland Final Update Report on White Paper on Enterprise Implementation publishes The Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke, T.D., has launched the fourth and final Update Report on the White Paper on Enterprise Implementation Plan, marking the conclusion of a two-year implementation period that began in 2023. The report showcases the progress made across 40 strategic initiatives underpinned by 93 activities. Among sustainability initiatives mentioned was the implementation of Ireland’s Offshore Wind Strategy, ‘Powering Prosperity’, and €312.6 million approved under the Growth and Sustainability Loan Scheme. The Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment will now commence the development of ‘Enterprise 2035’, the new enterprise strategy set out in the 2025 Programme for Government for enterprise growth and job creation over the coming decade. EV fleet assessment grant The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) has published details of its EV Fleet Assessment Grant. The grant, which offers up to €8,000 to Irish businesses aiming to transition their vehicle fleets, also funds a professional assessment that reviews a company’s current fleet, recommends suitable vehicles for electrification, and outlines necessary charging infrastructure. Eligible applicants include SMEs, large industries, and semi-state bodies with fleets of at least five vehicles, while public sector bodies are excluded. Climate Conversations 2025 consultation open The Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment has opened its Climate Conversations 2025 Consultation, which invites people across Ireland to share their views on climate action and how it impacts their daily lives. It aims to gather public input to shape future climate policies and ensure a fair and inclusive transition to a low-carbon society. The consultation is open until 22 September 2025 and is part of Ireland’s broader National Dialogue on Climate Action. UN progress report on Elimination of Discrimination against Women in Ireland The Minister for Children, Disability and Equality Norma Foley, T.D., has welcomed the publication of the UN’s Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) progress report on Ireland. This report acknowledged positive measures in gender equality which aimed to promote women’s leadership and address systemic barriers since 2017, such as the Work Life Balance and Miscellaneous Provisions Act 2023, the Gender Pay Gap Information Act 2021, and the National Strategy for Women and Girls.  It also highlighted areas needing further improvement. Ireland reaffirmed its dedication to the UN Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women and plans further engagement with civil society and human rights bodies. CSO publishes full set of ‘ecosystem accounts’ for flood control The Central Statistics Office (CSO) has published another full set of ecosystem accounts for Ireland.  Ecosystem Accounts – Flood Control Analysis 2025, which published as part of the CSO Frontier Series, focuses on flood control, highlights the importance of natural ecosystems in mitigating flood risks, and quantifies the economic value of these services. The report aims to inform policy decisions by providing data on the benefits of preserving and restoring natural habitats to enhance flood resilience and reduce economic losses from flooding.   UK/Northern Ireland Survey finds growth in number of mid-tier UK firms planning to offer ESG-related services The latest edition ofICAEW’s Mid-Tier Evolution research reveals that just under half of firms surveyed were planning to start offering environmental, social, and governance (ESG) related services, compared to only 10 percent in 2024 who at that time saw ESG as a growth opportunity. It also confirmed that access to skills remains a challenge, with close to half of surveyed firms saying it is a barrier to growth. Two-thirds of firms that intend to start offering ESG services are already investing in upskilling staff, and 50 percent are forming partnerships with ESG experts. Two-thirds of the firms that do not plan to offer ESG services said it was due to a lack of sufficient internal expertise and resources.    EUROPE European Commission launches Roadmap towards Nature Credits The European Commission has launched a 'Roadmap towards Nature Credits', to incentivise private investments into actions that protect and preserve nature, and reward those who undertake and invest in these actions. Nature credits represent an investment into nature-positive actions by a company, a financial institution, a public entity or a citizen, which in return can benefit from cleaner ecosystems, risk reduction, improved reputation and higher social acceptability for its projects. The Roadmap aims to develop clear standards and reliable certification for these nature-positive actions to make nature credits effective and trustworthy, while avoiding administrative burden when joining such a scheme. It will also draw on already existing standards. Accountancy Europe – July Sustainability Update Accountancy Europe has published the July issue of their Sustainability Update. Highlights include: Council of the EU reaches position on Omnibus European Parliament latest study on reporting obligations European Commission intends withdrawing Green Claims Directive Commission extends deadline for EFRAG to deliver technical advice on ESRS EFRAG presents its progress on ESRS simplification IFRS presents new jurisdictional profiles WORLD The UN Global Compact, the voluntary initiative by the United Nations to encourage businesses worldwide to adopt sustainable and socially responsible policies and practices, celebrates its 25th anniversary this month. During a recent webinar Corporate Sustainability in Crisis, co-hosted with CBS Professor Andreas Rasche, Founding Director Georg Kell reflected on the growing complexity and fragmentation shaping today’s global landscape, while reaffirming that the long-term drivers of sustainability—climate risk, social expectations, and shifting market signals—remain as urgent as ever. Kell urged companies to stay grounded in universal values, adapt to local realities, and embrace emerging technologies to drive meaningful impact. For more, you can read Georg’s recent Harvard Business Review article: Corporate Sustainability Is in Crisis. What Should Companies Do Now?   Climate litigation increasingly reaching the highest courts around the world, report finds Analysis published by the Grantham Research Institute on Climate Change and the Environment at the London School of Economics and Political Science has shown climate litigation is increasingly reaching the highest courts globally. The report – which identified 276 climate-related cases reaching so-called ‘apex courts’ across the world since 2015 – found that more than 80 percent of cases have challenged governments, with two decisions in 2024 ordering state governments in the United States to undertake more ambitious climate action. Commenting, Catherine Higham, Senior Policy Fellow, said that “Governments and companies are increasingly having to consider the legal ramifications of pushing ahead with oil or gas projects, as they risk being dragged through the courts” and that “The broader impacts of climate litigation are becoming increasingly visible and well-documented. It is no longer a niche concern; it is increasingly seen as a financial risk.”    Investor explainer on climate policy engagement disclosure The non-profit think-tank InfluenceMap has published an ‘investor explainer’ on climate policy engagement disclosure, to make the case for requiring reporting on corporate climate policy engagement in emerging mandatory disclosure regulations globally. The explainer explained, among other things, that such disclosures help investors to assess climate-related risks and ensure corporate alignment with global climate goals. The report was co-authored with a group of institutional investors at the forefront of efforts towards corporate climate policy engagement reform: BNP Paribas Asset Management (France), Railpen (UK), AkademikerPension (Denmark) and Storebrand (Norway) with a combined $1 trillion of assets under management. Did you know? 5 - 11 July 2025 is Net Zero Week, the UK's official national awareness week dedicated to all things related to achieving net-zero emissions. It brings together academics, scientists, policy makers and trade associations to discuss how to reach net zero by 2050. This article by InvestNI’s Head of Green Economy focuses on key growth areas for Northern Ireland’s green economy. Expression of Interest: The Business of Nature Positive, Trinity Business School Trinity Business School is inviting businesses to participate in undergraduate-/student-led research to trial the application of nature-related reporting frameworks and tools, and to explore ways to develop a roadmap to nature positive. The project will suit businesses looking to develop a deeper understanding of their impacts and dependencies on nature, and wondering where to start with nature related disclosures. Interested businesses can complete and submit an expression of interest form here. (Previous participants included Chartered Accountants Ireland) Articles Asset managers will continue to seek out the full picture of a company’s transition readiness, including their lobbying activities (Sustainable Views - FT) How can businesses change their business model to support biodiversity? (Irish Times) ‘Insets’ are the new offsets (Bloomberg Green) Media and telecoms can lead the charge in sustainability (Accountancy Ireland – Briefly) Just the Facts | What is the EU Green Claims Directive? (European Movement Ireland) How organisations can effectively prepare for the EU Pay Transparency Directive (Accountancy Ireland - Briefly) Events CDP Ireland Network Corporate Disclosure In-Person Training and Workshops Join the CPD Ireland network for training and workshops to support and guide you on completing the 2025 questionnaire. Whether it's your first or fifth time disclosing with us, our CDP Network Ireland Corporate Disclosure in-person training and workshops are for you.  They will be delivered by the team from CDP, supported by Goodbody Clearstream. In person, AIB Head Office, 10 Molesworth Street D02 W260 Dublin 2 Ireland, Wednesday, July 23 · 10:30am - 4:30pm. UN Global Compact (Swiss Network) Managing Risks in Supply Chains: When On-Demand Labour Becomes Forced Labour How does your business model and sourcing strategy cause or contribute to social and environmental risks along your value chain; and how exposed are your business activities to risks embedded in your purchased goods and services?  This series of webinars (convened by the UNGC’s Swiss Network) will take you through innovative approaches to conducting risk assessments and gaining actionable insights that can then be addressed through collaborative, data-driven approaches with measurable results. Using a case study approach the Equiception team will share their experiences in multiple economic sectors and regions of the world with a special focus on decent working conditions, forced labour and child labour.  Webinar, 28 August 2025 | 12:30-14:00 Business in the Community, Accredited carbon literacy training This Accredited Carbon Literacy Training session event is hosted by Business in the Community Northern Ireland, and aims to equip participants with the knowledge and skills to understand and act on climate change, helping organizations reduce their carbon footprint. The training is certified and designed to support sustainability leadership across sectors.  In person, Wednesday, 3 September 9:00 - 17:00, Craigavon Civic Centre, 66 Lakeview Rd, Craigavon BT64 1AL ICAEW, Sustainability in Practice A morning of expert-led discussion, practical exercises, and peer learning—all focused on helping you build and deliver impactful sustainability services. In person, 3 September, 8.30-12.00, Chartered Accountant Hall, Moorgate Place, London, EC2R6EA UN Global Compact (Swiss Network) Managing Risks in Supply Chains: Does High Quality Equal Compliance? The case of surgical goods made by children This is the third and last session of our three-part webinar series on 'Managing Risks in Supply Chains: A Series for Data-Driven Action'. This last session focuses on the case of surgical goods made by children. Are high-quality goods more likely to be produced in high-quality facilities? The value chain of surgical instruments proves otherwise. Children can be found grinding "Made in Germany" scalpels in informal sector workshops in Pakistan. Worse, this situation has been repeatedly exposed over three decades. What can companies learn from this case and how can public and private procurement and sourcing professionals avoid similar risks?  Webinar, 18 September 2025 | 12:30-14:00  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, October 2025, Titanic Belfast Sustainability Centre You can find information, guidance and supports to understand sustainability and meet the challenges it presents in our online Sustainability Centre.  

  In this week’s Sustainability/ESG Bulletin read about a publication on the contribution of sectoral level economic activity to GHG emissions levels in Ireland, consultations in Northern Ireland on both plastic pollution and the draft Climate Action Plan 2023-2027, and the launch of the UK’s new Modern Industrial Strategy. Also covered is the proposed amendment to the EU’s Climate Law, a recommendation on tax incentives to support the EU’s Clean Industrial Deal, economic losses from climate extremes, updates on nature data and transition planning, as well as the usual articles, resources and upcoming events.   Ireland Green ‘Flash’ registration plates for electric vehicles A new initiative has been announced that will make it easier spot and acknowledge vehicles with no CO2 emissions. Distinct licence plates for electric vehicles, with a green vertical stripe – or 'flash' – will be available to all fully electric vehicles drivers on an optional basis, in an effort to entice more people and companies to invest in sustainable vehicles. Other countries, such as the UK, Germany and Norway, have introduced similar plates for electric vehicles to highlight the presence of zero-emission vehicles on the roads. Renewable Transport Fuel Policy 2025-2027 The Renewable Fuels for Transport Policy Statement 2025 – 2027 has published, setting out a pathway for the achievement of Ireland’s Climate Action Plan biofuel targets, as well as delivery of the targets and requirements under European regulation. This latest iteration of the policy explores the potential for further deployment of renewable fuels for all transport modes, and seeks to strengthen sustainability assurance mechanisms within EU frameworks. The policy contains 19 actions aimed at delivering on the objectives over the next two years. First meeting of the National Energy Affordability Taskforce The Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment, Darragh O'Brien, T.D., has chaired the first meeting of the National Energy Affordability Taskforce (NEAT). This Taskforce was established to identify and implement measures to enhance energy affordability for households and businesses. Among other things, it aims to publish a National Energy Affordability Action plan which will include medium-term and long-term measures and structural reforms to lower costs for households and businesses. Contribution of sectoral level economic activity to GHG emissions levels The Department of Finance has published a paper examining the trends in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in Ireland over the last 30 years and the extent to which sectoral level economic activity currently contributes to GHG emissions levels. Key findings in the paper, titled A Decomposition of Economic Activity linked to Greenhouse Gas Emissions in Ireland June 2025, highlight that Ireland’s total GHG emissions per capita are the third highest in Europe, and that the Agriculture Forestry and Fishing sector is the largest contributor to the overall GHG emissions in Ireland, and one of the lowest contributors to employment, GVA and exports in the economy. Call for SDG Champions The Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment is seeking Expressions of Interest for participants in the 2025-26 Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Champions Programme. Applications are sought from all organisations and groups who would like to act as an advocate for the SDGs and are a good practice example of how to promote and achieve the goals. Applications will be accepted in written or video format up to 5pm on Wednesday, 30 July. Climate Conversation report publishes The Department has also published the latest in a series of annual 'Climate Conversation' public consultation reports. This fourth report, which gathered 1,949 responses through an online public consultation between May and September 2024, provides critical insights into Irish citizens' attitudes, understanding, and involvement in climate action. Among other findings the report shows a heightened climate concern and desire for collective action but points to a persistence of misconceptions, particularly around the effectiveness of different carbon-reducing actions. The report makes several recommendations, including enhancing cross-government collaboration on climate initiatives. SEAI Energy Awards 2025 now open for applications Applications are now open for entrants to the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) 2025 Energy Awards 2025. These awards showcase excellence in sustainable energy and are open to individuals, community groups, SMEs and large businesses from both the public and private sector across the island of Ireland. You can register and apply using the SEAI’s online application portal by 5pm, Thursday 17 July.   UK/Northern Ireland Minister launches report which focuses on developing a more sustainable built environment Economy Minister, Dr Caoimhe Archibald, has launched a report outlining a strategic vision for decarbonising Northern Ireland’s built environment by 2050. It emphasises retrofitting buildings, improving energy efficiency standards, and investing in green skills as key steps toward reducing carbon emissions. The report also presents future scenarios to guide long-term planning and highlights the economic and environmental benefits of sustainable development. Public Consultation on Northern Ireland's plastic pollution The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) has launched a 12-week public consultation on Plastic Pollution Plan for Northern Ireland, seeking public feedback on Department's current policies’ reduction measures as well suggestions to further eliminate plastic pollution. DAERA Minister, Andrew Muir, emphasised the need for collective action to tackle plastic pollution and create green jobs, new economic opportunities, and a cleaner environment. The consultation remains open until 24 September 2025. Public Consultation on Northern Ireland's draft Climate Action Plan 2023-2027 A 16-week public consultation on Northern Ireland’s first Climate Action Plan is now open, with participation invited from all interested parties. Described by Minister Muir as a “a roadmap towards a more sustainable future”, the draft plan outlines how Northern Ireland will reduce greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2050. The plan, which is required under the 2022 Climate Change Act, includes policies and proposals identified by departments to reduce emissions across all sectors of our economy and society. In addition to the draft Climate Action Plan, other climate initiatives currently being progressed by DAERA include a consultation on the third Northern Ireland Climate Change Adaptation Programme, work to progress the establishment of the Just Transition Commission following consultation earlier this year and a forthcoming consultation on Northern Ireland’s fourth carbon budget. The consultation is open until 8 October 2025. Separately, an independent panel appointed by Minister Muir has published its interim report on environmental governance  in Northern Ireland, highlighting the need for stronger oversight and accountability. The report draws on public feedback, stakeholder engagement, and expert input, and suggests that the current system is inadequate for protecting the environment. It explores options such as establishing an independent Environmental Protection Agency, with final recommendations expected later this summer. UK unveils new Modern Industrial Strategy The UK government has unveiled its new Modern Industrial Strategy, promising a reduction of up to 25 percent in electricity costs for thousands of businesses. The new 10-year strategy aims to unlock billions in investment and support 1.1 million new well-paid jobs over the next decade by addressing two particular barriers facing UK industry: high electricity prices and long waits for grid connections. Other actions include unlocking billions in finance for innovative business, especially for SMEs, an extra £1.2 billion each year for skills by 2028-29, reducing regulatory burdens and boosting R&D spending to £26 billion per year by 2029-30. Several plans to deliver the strategy were also published,  including the Clean Energy Industries Sector Plan, and the Professional and Business Sector Services Plan. The latter is the UK’s plan to ensure the sector is at the forefront of seizing new commercial opportunities created by new technology, including AI. Separately, in an address to the Climate and Innovation Forum as part of London Climate Action Week, the UK Energy Secretary Ed Miliband outlined plans to support banks and large companies in developing climate transition plans, i.e. setting out a roadmap that outlines how they intend to adapt and transform their operations, strategies and business models to align with their climate goals. As part of its commitment to secure Britain’s position as the sustainable finance capital of the world and help businesses and investors seize the opportunities from the clean energy transition, three consultations were announced to modernise the UK’s sustainable finance framework:   a climate-related transition plan manifesto commitment new UK Sustainability Reporting Standards  the development of a voluntary registration regime for the providers of assurance of sustainability reporting EUROPE Amendment to Climate Law proposed The European Commission has proposed an amendment to the EU Climate Law, setting a legally binding target to reduce net greenhouse gas emissions by 90 percent by 2040 compared to 1990 levels. New “flexibilities” are included in the proposal, which have reportedly drawn criticism for potentially watering down the bloc’s climate ambition, include a limited role for “high-quality international credits” from 2036, the use of domestic permanent emissions removals within the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) and additional flexibilities across certain hard-to-decarbonise sectors. The Commission's proposal setting a 2040 climate target will now be submitted to the European Parliament and the Council for discussion and adoption under the ordinary legislative procedure. Business and political leaders urges EU to uphold ‘non-negotiable principles’ Several business and political leaders have written to the Institutions and Governments of the European Union advising them that the recent EU regulatory package on sustainability (Omnibus I), aimed at simplifying rules and boosting the competitiveness of the European economy, risks dismantling the regulatory framework on sustainability that has been carefully built over the years. The letter lists what it describes as ‘non-negotiable principles’ and political commitments that should be upheld as they have established the European Union as a global leader in social and environmental matters. The letter urges the EU to send clear signals to the market to, among other things, achieve the strategic goal of a sustainable and prosperous economy, so that economic actors accelerate decarbonisation, enhance their resilience to climate change, and adopt sustainable management models that respect human rights. Recommendation on tax incentives to support Clean Industrial Deal The European Commission has issued a Recommendation on Tax Incentives to support the Clean Industrial Deal, aiming to accelerate the EU’s transition to a climate-neutral industrial base. The proposal encourages Member States to adopt accelerated depreciation and targeted tax credits for investments in clean technologies and industrial decarbonisation, while ensuring alignment with EU state aid rules. It emphasizes principles such as targeted support, simplicity, and timely implementation to make tax incentives more effective and accessible for businesses. Economic losses and impact preparedness tool The European Environment Agency has published an interactive product that aims to raise awareness both among European decision makers and the public about the urgent need to both mitigate and adapt to climate change and strengthen resilience. The Climate Impacts and Preparedness Assessment explores how heatwaves, floods, droughts and wildfires are increasingly affecting Europe. Using interactive maps and charts, it shows what happened in the past and what’s projected for the future, and provides examples of how the continent is preparing. Separately, the EEA briefing 'Economic losses and fatalities from weather- and climate-related extremes' shows that economic losses from weather- and climate-related extremes amounted to just over €45 billion in 2023 for 38 European countries, including EU and other EEA member and cooperating countries. Total economic losses from weather- and climate-related events exceeded €790 billion between 1980 and 2023. Most countries also reported that over 50 percent of their losses were uninsured, widening the gap between economic losses and insured losses. In many cases this figure exceeded 90 percent.    WORLD The Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) has announced the launch of a new phase of work aimed at enhancing global access to decision-useful nature data. This phase is intended to inform a set of recommendations to be presented at COP30, the UN Climate Change Conference, taking place in Belém, Brazil, in November 2025.  The IFRS Foundation has published guidance on disclosures about transition plans. The guidance supports entities applying IFRS S2 Climate-related Disclosures and is designed to enable them to provide high-quality information about their climate-related transition when applying IFRS S2. It also covers disclosures about any transition plan an entity has, including both mitigation and adaptation efforts. The IFRS Foundation will continue to monitor disclosures provided by entities applying IFRS S2 and will consider the need to enhance the application guidance in IFRS S2. Listen Listen as David McGee, PwC ESG Leader, talks about PwC's new report 'Reconfiguring the Global Food System' which looks at re-designing how we produce, process and consume food (16 mins) Did you know? Safety in the sun must now be considered by employers as a hazard, where employees are exposed to hazardous environmental conditions. Read more from Ibec. Articles There are several ingenious tacks we can take to help cut our emissions (Irish Times) Do voluntary sustainability standards for business work? (Havard Business Review) Government seeks views on draft UK Sustainability Reporting Standards (ICAEW) Government launches UK sustainability assurance regime consultation (ICAEW) How can the private sector contribute to systemic resilience? LinkedIn Post - Lindsay Hooper, Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Corporations Are Bringing Climate Talk to a Whisper (Bloomberg) Transition planning: how to achieve net zero (ICAEW) Events   Dublin Chamber, International Roundtable on Circular Economy with ECOPath The ECOPath Project supports SMEs in adopting Circular Economy practices to strengthen and implement their ESG performance. It equips SME staff with the knowledge and skills needed to reduce their company’s environmental impact through circular approaches. Join EcoPath Project and SMEs from Sweden, Germany, Spain, and Croatia to discuss these approaches, and the curriculum developed so far and have your say. Webinar, Wednesday 9 July, 10.00-11.30. ICAEW, ESG – how should the financial statements reflect sustainability? The objective of this session is to provide auditors and preparers of financial statements a summary of how ESG and sustainability should be reflected in their annual report. Webinar, Thursday, 10 July, 09:30 - 12:30 BST and 15/07/2025, 09:30 - 12:30 BST ICAEW, Sustainability in Practice A morning of expert-led discussion, practical exercises, and peer learning—all focused on helping you build and deliver impactful sustainability services. In person, 3 September, 8.30-12.00, Chartered Accountant Hall, Moorgate Place, London, EC2R6EA 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, October 2025, Titanic Belfast   Sustainability Centre You can find information, guidance and supports to understand sustainability and meet the challenges it presents in our online Sustainability Centre.