Background
Climate change is one of the biggest risks facing the communities, physical infrastructure, biodiversity and social fabric which make Galway City such a unique place to live. We are compelled to take ambitious action through mitigation (decreasing emissions that cause climate change) and adaptation (enhancing resilience to climate change impacts and risks).
Why do we need to develop a Climate Action Plan?
Ireland’s Climate Action and Low Carbon Development (Amendment) Act (2021) Ireland is now on a legally binding path to net-Zero emissions no later than 2050, and to a 51% reduction in emissions by the end of this decade. The act requires local authorities to prepare a Local Authority Climate Action Plan (LACAP) which runs for 5 years to meet national emission reductions targets and develop resilience to the impacts of climate change.
What is the deadline to implementation?
On the 24th February 2023 the Minister instructed local authorities to prepare climate action plans and under the legislation the authorities must adopt a plan within 12 months. The LACAP must include both adaption and mitigation measures.
What will be included within the Climate Action Plan?
Galway City Council will use its Climate Action Plan (CAP) in planning how it will reduce greenhouse gas emissions from across its own assets and infrastructure, whilst also taking on a broader role to influence, facilitate and co-ordinate the climate actions of communities and other stakeholders and what it will do to advocate for climate action in Galway City.
Related documents
Galway City Council has published a Baseline Emissions Inventory Report, which gives a picture of the current emissions in the city and examines how the climate in the city has changed in recent decades. A Risk Assessment report has also been published, which shows the risks the impacts of future climate change may cause for the city. Strategic Environment Assessment and Natura Impact Assessment which assesses the effects of certain plans and programmes on the Environment and any European designated site.
To view each of the documents please click on the links below:
Galway City Council Local Authority Climate Action Plan (LACAP) 2024-2029
Strategic Environmental Assessment Galway City
Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) Statement Final
Non-technical Summary Strategic Environmental Assessment Galway City
Appropriate Assessment Screening Report
Galway City Baseline Emissions Inventory
Galway City Climate Risk Assessment Report
CE Report on Draft Local Authority Climate Action Plan 2024 - 2029 Public Consultation