The Climate Action and Low Carbon Development (Amendment) Bill 2020 was published on 7th October 2020, and is described as an ambitious piece of legislation. It commits us, in law, to move to a climate-resilient and climate neutral economy by 2050.
The Programme for Government commits to a 7% average yearly reduction in overall greenhouse gas emissions over the next decade and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. This Bill will drive the implementation of a suite of policies to help us achieve this goal.
The Bill included the following:
- Establishes a 2050 emissions target;
- Introduces a system of five-year, economy-wide carbon budgets starting from 2021;
- Strengthens the role of the Climate Change Advisory Council in proposing carbon budgets;
- Introduces a requirement to annually revise the Climate Action Plan and prepare a National Long-Term Climate Action Strategy at least every decade;
- Introduces a requirement for all Local Authorities to prepare individual Climate Action Plans which will include both mitigation and adaptation measures;
- Gives a more robust oversight role for the Oireachtas through an Oireachtas Committee.
Regarding Agriculture, it was acknowledged that it is not possible to reach zero emissions, but the sector will still have to make significant contributions towards reducing emissions, in-turn providing opportunities for the sector. The Minister said, “By changing the way we do things, by tackling the biodiversity crisis as well as the climate crisis, you get a better form of farming and better payments for farmers.”
The legislation sends a clear signal to businesses, farmers, and our communities that climate action is good for the economy. It will allow us to reach our climate targets while creating jobs and sustainable growth in new sectors. Review Climate Action and Low Carbon Development (Amendment) Bill.
Image Credit: NRN
Source: Gov.ie
