Report: Recession prompts fall-off in greenhouse gas emissions

GREENHOUSE gas emissions are decreasing thanks to the downturn in the economy, an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) report has found.

With people increasingly reducing their carbon footprint in these recessionary times, it is estimated Ireland will need to purchase around half of its carbon credits under the Kyoto Protocol, potentially saving the Government tens of millions of euros.

The greenhouse gas projections, published under the National Climate Change Strategy, give a picture of Ireland’s ability to meet international targets with respect to greenhouse gas emissions.

Instead of buying 3.6 million tonnes — each tonne costs about e10 to e15 — per annum to meet Kyoto targets in 2012, the Government will only have to purchase 1.3m to 1.8m tonnes annually.

Dr Mary Kelly, EPA director, said the lower projected purchasing requirements depend on all relevant policies and measures being delivered on time to achieve the full anticipated emissions reductions.

“The challenges associated with meeting these criteria should not be underestimated.

In particular, investments in energy efficiency measures and renewable energies will be crucial,” she said.

Ms Kelly said it is imperative that Ireland separates greenhouse gas emissions from economic activity, so that when a return to growth occurs the country does not simply end up in greater difficulties.

“Simply because emissions are reducing due to the economic downturn must not lead to complacency,” she said.

Dr Ken Macken, programme manager of the EPA Climate Change Unit, said while meeting 2012 Kyoto targets is possible, meeting the 2020 targets will be much more difficult.

“It will be essential to reduce Ireland’s dependence on fossil fuels and ensure that very significant increases are achieved in the use of alternative energy sources,” he said.

“The role of research will be crucial, particularly in regard to examining all possible options to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the agriculture and transport sectors, but also in regard to identifying and implementing new technology options. The inclusion of forest sinks is crucial for Ireland.”

The projections are reported on a sectoral basis and highlight that the key sectors contributing to greenhouse gas emissions in Ireland are agriculture, energy and transport.

lAn interesting website on this issue can be found at www.breathingearth.net