Lingering cost pressures weigh on SME sustainability investment

Uisce Éireann report shows firms' planned water conservation measures fell to 15% to the end of June compared to the same period a year earlier

The European Commission has also highlighted issues in Ireland’s water systems in recent months. 

Small and medium-sized businesses splashed out on costly water conservation measures amid a climate crisis and flawed infrastructure but financial burdens is weighing on future investment, new research suggests.

A report by semi-State body Uisce Éireann showed businesses sustainability investment activity among SMEs may have hit its peak after a period of outperformance, but costs continue to be an obstacle for many firms implementing sustainable practices as financial burdens continue to bite.