Demand for 'urgent' emission reductions as UN issues stark warning on global warming

Renewable Energy Ireland chairwoman Tanya Harrington recommends more action across power, transport, building, and industry sectors to reduce carbon emissions. Picture: Shane O'Neill, Coalesce.

Ireland has been warned it needs to be more "urgent" in emission-reduction targets, as the UN says there is now "no credible pathway" in place to limit global warming to 1.5C.

Launching its new strategy, industry lobby group Renewable Energy Ireland said there are still barriers to speeding up the transition to cleaner energy. It cited the likes of planning blockages and red tape for various heating schemes as examples of the lack of urgency.