8000 adults aged over 50 years. Using the HSE-PRCR prescribing database, the project found a positive association between respiratory item prescription rates and PM2.5 levels, while the results for NO2 were inconclusive. The project also developed an enhanced Wind Sector Land Use Regression (WS-LUR) model that estimates ambient NO2 concentrations at any location in Ireland with particular emphasis on vehicle fleet changes and traffic flow impacts on NO2. , Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is recognised globally as one of the greatest challenges to human and animal health. In 2021, Ireland’s second National Action Plan on AMR (iNAP2) strengthened Ireland’s commitment to tackling the challenge of AMR using the ‘One Health’ approach. The role of the environment in the persistence and transmission of AMR is the least studied element of the One Health paradigm. This was further highlighted by the analysis commissioned by the EPA in preparation for iNAP2. The findings of the AREST project add significantly to our understanding of this environmental dimension of AMR by (1) providing evidence of the extent of contamination of the Irish environment with antimicrobial-resistant organisms and antimicrobial resistance genes of clinical concern, (2) generating national-level data on the key sources, hotspots and drivers of AMR in the environment from the human health and agriculture sectors, and (3) providing key data and recommendations., Major electricity infrastructure, such as high-voltage power lines, transformer stations and substations, emits non-ionising radiation in the form of extremely low-frequency electromagnetic fields (ELF EMFs). Potential health effects associated with long-term exposure to ELF EMFs have been a concern since the late 1970s. However, epidemiological studies of health risks of ELF EMF exposure have reported varying results, and a causal relationship has not been established. This research report presents a review on the published literature in relation to populations exposure to ELF EMFs, epidemiological studies on associated health risks, current EU policies, monitoring strategies, methods to reduce exposure and strategies for risk communication. , Ireland regularly reports the highest annual crude incidence of verotoxin-producing Escherichia coli (VTEC) enteritis and cryptosporidiosis in Europe, it is typically 5–10 times the European average. Drivers of infections include short-term hydrometeorological conditions, elevated levels of pastoral agriculture and high reliance on septic tanks and private domestic groundwater sources. Forecasts suggest that Ireland will experience significant hydrometeorological pattern changes due to global warming. The STEP_WISE project focused on increasing scientific understanding of the spatiotemporal mechanisms associated with waterborne VTEC enteritis and cryptosporidiosis in Ireland, and determining how these findings could be translated into enhanced environmental, infrastructural and healthcare policies. The research findings provide policy actors with valuable information to address transmission sources, pathways and source–pathway interactions associated with both infections in Ireland., In Ireland groundwater sources provide domestic drinking water to approximately 750,000 people in mainly rural areas. Studies that differentiate the exposure pathways and sources are of paramount importance for establishing environmental management solutions that safeguard public health. Ireland currently has the highest incidence of verotoxigenic Escherichia coli (VTEC) infection in the EU, domestic private wells are identified as a likely source of infection. This is a public health concern for public authorities and consumers alike. The DESIGN research project provides the first quantitative assessment of VTEC and Cryptosporidium in domestic groundwater supplies in Ireland. It provides insight into the prevalence, source and transport of VTEC and Cryptosporidium in groundwater supplies. The research developed bespoke, spatio-temporal groundwater management policies, and offers invaluable guidance for future planning, remediation and mitigation of contamination in private wells., The EPA/ESRI Environment Research Programme produces policy-relevant applied research at the interface between the environment, economy, and society. This report on this fourth phase provides a summary of 13 studies, produced by the ESRI, that use a range of data and methodological approaches to provide insights into the environmental challenges facing Irish society. The studies include analyses of healthcare costs resulting from poor air quality and water-related diseases, public perceptions and behaviour in relation to environmental risks, the effects of greenwashing and eco-labels on consumers, as well as the role of enforcement in preventing pollution in Ireland. , The Human Biomonitoring for Ireland (HBM4IRE) project assessed the feasibility of establishing a national Human Biomonitoring (HBM) programme in Ireland to better understand cumulative chemical exposure from various sources. Despite EU regulations, concerns remain about long-term health impacts, and HBM offers a more accurate method of measuring human exposure through biological samples. The study confirmed Ireland’s capacity to implement such a programme, aligning with EU initiatives like the Green Deal and Zero Pollution Action Plan. Key outcomes include Ireland’s first priority chemical list, a proposed governance framework involving agencies like the EPA and HSE, and recommendations for stakeholder engagement, data transparency, and sustained funding. The findings support evidence-based policymaking, improved public health protections, and international collaboration. HBM4IRE also provides a roadmap for future efforts, including addressing., Ozone plays a crucial role in atmospheric chemistry, forming naturally in the stratosphere and at ground level through sunlight and precursor pollutants. While essential, ground-level ozone poses risks to human health and ecosystems. A University of Galway-led study explored the drivers of ozone pollution in Ireland, highlighting the influence of meteorology and transboundary emissions. Using long-term data and advanced modelling, researchers found that rural and coastal areas experience higher ozone levels than urban zones, though urban ozone is rising in Ireland and at a Global level due to declining NOₓ emissions. The study identifies methane as the main reactive carbon precursor to Irish ground-level ozone. The findings provide policy actors with evidence that supports the use of high-resolution modelling to understand ozone trends and recommends increased public awareness using educational campaigns., Sulfur hexafluoride (SF6), F-gas, is a human made synthetic, colourless and odourless, non-flammable (GHG). It has the highest 100-year global warming potential (GWP) of all GHGs. This research led by a team in UL analysed SF6 use, conducted stakeholder engagement and used modelling to assess SF6 use, emissions data and Environmental Impact Assessment requirements in the power and semiconductor sectors. The findings highlighted weaknesses in data collection, reporting, and end‑of‑life management of SF6‑containing equipment. The research recommends ‘Best Practice’ emissions reducing alternatives and increased training for safe handling to support policymakers, regulators, and industry in meeting regulatory obligations. The findings also support improved regulation, emission reduction strategies, and circular economy objectives, while noting limitations related to reliance on industry to self‑report and challenges due to incomplete private‑sector data availability., The use of chemicals brings major societal and economic benefits, but problems arise when hazardous, persistent substances bioaccumulate with the potential to negatively impact human health and the environment. TERRAChem assessed concentrations of 92 legacy and emerging organic contaminants in sediments across Ireland, and in wastewater treatment plant biosolids. Chemicals studied included PFAS, flame retardants, PCBs, pharmaceuticals, UV filters and insecticides. Most chemicals studied posed a low ecological risk, however, clarithromycin and sulfamethoxazole showed moderate to high risk. Three contamination hotspots were identified and elevated concentrations of some antibiotics and UV filters were often found downstream of wastewater discharges. The findings support future monitoring that aligns with chemicals, soils and wastewater policies and inform guidance on biosolids application to land. Further research on soil contaminants and biosolid-treated land is recommended., Best Practices from the European Implementation Reviews of Environmental Law in the EU-28 Countries, This project presents a method to cheaply produce high-capacity biosorbents from Irish brown seaweeds., Environmental sensitivity is a critical consideration in natural resource management. In the context of the legislative requirements for impact assessment, environmental sensitivity (or vulnerability) assessments present a framework for systematically determining the potential for significant adverse impacts., FloodWarnTech was an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-funded desk study of flood warning, with a specific focus on Ireland. Its objectives were to investigate (1) flood forecasting techniques and systems in use in Ireland and elsewhere; (2) methods and models best suited for use in Ireland; and (3) the optimal use of relevant data sources, observations and forecasts for flood forecasting., This report sets out to assess key current issues, and important emerging issues, in the waste policy arena in the European Commission, and in selected Member States., Annex to the Report: Review of Current Priorities and Emerging Issues in European Waste Policy, Autonomous sensor platforms were developed by the research team in Dublin City University (DCU) allowing for long-term continuous monitoring of greenhouse gases and extraction pressure. Web-based accessibility via integrated telemetry facilitated data access and visualisation from remote deployments. These platforms were employed principally on landfill sites., Autonomous sensor platforms were developed by the research team in Dublin City University (DCU) allowing for long-term continuous monitoring of greenhouse gases and extraction pressure. Web-based accessibility via integrated telemetry facilitated data access and visualisation from remote deployments. These platforms were employed principally on landfill sites., The scope of the Al Source project is to determine the optimisation of state-of-the-art technologies that could offer potential in the reuse of bauxite residue to recover valuable elements., The SEA Directive aims to integrate environmental considerations into planning and decision-making, with a view to promoting sustainable development. However, the extent to which the findings of environmental assessments are informing decisions is not fully understood. This report presents the findings of the second review of Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) effectiveness in Ireland., This report is an update of the previous stand-alone guidance document on SEA Statements and monitoring, prepared as part of the EPA-funded project Second Review of SEA Effectiveness in Ireland (González et al., 2020). It is specific to the Irish context but has wider international applicability. The monitoring recommendations include guidance on indicators to facilitate a more consistent and coherent approach at this SEA stage. The updates relate to clarifying some SEA monitoring requirements and to acknowledge the published revised national SEA Guidelines and the Development Plan Guidelines for Planning authorities, both published by the DHLGH in 2022. , This report aims to distil out the best practices from the 28-Country EU Environmental Implementation Review 2019 (EIR)., The Algeopolymers project study focused on a state-of-the-art review related to geopolymers, including the use of wastes and by products as core ingredients in geopolymer products. The objective of the research was to investigate the potential for Irish wastes (fly ash, bauxite residues, etc.) to be used in geopolymer applications and the opportunities for these geopolymer applications within the construction industry in Ireland., This report details our progress towards the development of safer, less toxic and biodegradable chemicals called acid catalysts., This report details our progress towards the development of safer, less toxic and biodegradable chemicals called acid catalysts., This project involved a laboratory scale study into improving the properties of commercial water filtration membranes for removal of metal ions such as copper and chromium from water, forming ion selective smart membranes and the reduction of protein fouling., This project involved a laboratory scale study into improving the properties of commercial water filtration membranes for removal of metal ions such as copper and chromium from water, forming ion selective smart membranes and the reduction of protein fouling., The aim of this EPA funded project was to develop cost effective microfluidic platforms for enzymatic biofuel cells., The aim of this EPA funded project was to develop cost effective microfluidic platforms for enzymatic biofuel cells., The focus of this project was to develop an alternative greener pretreatment method, based on the use of thermoacidophilic enzymes, which aims to improve the efficiency of the pretreatment step and overcome many of the technical, economical, environmental and health & safety related disadvantages associated with current practice., The focus of this project was to develop an alternative greener pretreatment method, based on the use of thermoacidophilic enzymes, which aims to improve the efficiency of the pretreatment step and overcome many of the technical, economical, environmental and health & safety related disadvantages associated with current practice., The project has demonstrated the first step towards the development of a green approach to CO2 reduction and recycling, and delivers a technology where hydrogen can be produced from water at room temperature., The project has demonstrated the first step towards the development of a green approach to CO2 reduction and recycling, and delivers a technology where hydrogen can be produced from water at room temperature., This project looks at upcycling waste plastic from Irish farms to a more valuable biodegradable form of plastic., This summary report highlights the achievements of this project, which demonstrated the development of a technology for the conversion of post-consumer (farm) plastic into a biodegradable plastic., Currently, for every 1kg of active pharmaceutical product produced between 25 and 100kg of waste is generated. This project looks at new technologies that reduce water and energy requirements, offering cost savings and improved product yield, with less waste generated., Currently, for every 1kg of active pharmaceutical product produced between 25 and 100kg of waste is generated. This project looks at new technologies that reduce water and energy requirements, offering cost savings and improved product yield, with less waste gnerated., EPA leaflet highlighting Irish involvement with European Joint Programming Initiative 'Cultural Heritage and Global Change: A new challenge', This publication highlights case studies from the EPA-supported Cleaner Greener Production programme from 2008-2012., STRIVE Report 81- Katrina Macintosh, Rachel Cassidy, Phil Jordan, Joerg Arnscheidt and Valerie McCarthy.University of Ulster, Northern Ireland., Summary of Findings - STRIVE Report 81, Katrina Macintosh, Rachel Cassidy, Phil Jordan, Joerg Arnscheidt and Valerie McCarthy, Authors: Fiona Regan, Antóin Lawlor, Brendan O’Flynn and John Wallace. Lead Organisation: Dublin City University., STRIVE Report 78-Edmond O’Reilly, Eoghan Clifford, Michael Rodgers and Padraic O’Donoghue. Lead Organisation: National University of Ireland Galway, Authors: Edmond O’Reilly, Eoghan Clifford, Michael Rodgers and Padraic O’Donoghue, STRIVE Report 77- Shane T. Kenny, Jasmina Nikodinovic Runic and Kevin O’Connor, Summary of Findings - STRIVE Report 77, Dr. Kevin O’ Connor, Shane T. Kenny, Jasmina Nikodinovic Runic., STRIVE Report 70 - Lorraine Nagle and James Rohan, Summary of Findings - STRIVE Report 70, STRIVE Report 64- Dermot Hughes, Anne Marie Enright, Thérèse Mahony, Vincent O’Flaherty, CGPP report - EPA Cleaner Greener Production Programme: Experiences, Impacts and Outcomes for Participant Organisations. Authors: Dr Rachel Hilliard, Dr Suchitra Pal and Valerie Parker, Centre for Innovation & Structural Change NUI Galway." /> Reports | Environmental Protection Agency
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Beginning on 17 August 2026 individual publications in this section of the EPA website will move to a new structure. If you cannot find the publication you were looking for, please email researchcomms@epa.ie   

Latest Research reports

Research 517

Research 517: Town Revitalisation through the Integration of Vacant Buildings into the Circular Economy: Final Report

Authors: Liam Heaphy, Philip Crowe, Ciara Reddy, Rola Abu Hilal, Lysander Reid-Powell, Gloriana Vargas Castro and Herin Vora, July 2026

Year: 2026

The built environment accounts for nearly 40% of global carbon emissions, with the construction sector driving substantial resource depletion, waste generation, and environmental degradation. The Irish Centre for High-End Computing (UoG) and UCD addressed a research gap by examining the costs and barriers to the adaptive reuse of vacant buildings in Irish towns. The findings show vacancy is concentrated in terraced town-centre buildings and derelict sites, highlighting the need for targeted solutions. Retrofitting existing buildings was found to have significantly lower carbon impacts than new construction, with further savings possible through retaining more building elements, low-carbon design choices and block-scale regeneration. Key barriers included accessibility issues, legal complexities, limited data and resource constraints. The research recommends low-carbon retrofitting policies, improved grant schemes, professional training and Town Centre First planning initiatives.

Research 516

Research 516: Assessment of the Environmental Contamination of Irish Soils and Sediments with Hazardous Chemicals (TERRAChem)

Marie Coggins, Martin Sharkey, Stuart Harrad, William A. Stubbings, Yulong Ma, Shijie Wang, Jingxi Jin and Mark G. Healy, July 2026

Year: 2026

The use of chemicals brings major societal and economic benefits, but problems arise when hazardous, persistent substances bioaccumulate with the potential to negatively impact human health and the environment. TERRAChem assessed concentrations of 92 legacy and emerging organic contaminants in sediments across Ireland, and in wastewater treatment plant biosolids. Chemicals studied included PFAS, flame retardants, PCBs, pharmaceuticals, UV filters and insecticides. Most chemicals studied posed a low ecological risk, however, clarithromycin and sulfamethoxazole showed moderate to high risk. Three contamination hotspots were identified and elevated concentrations of some antibiotics and UV filters were often found downstream of wastewater discharges. The findings support future monitoring that aligns with chemicals, soils and wastewater policies and inform guidance on biosolids application to land. Further research on soil contaminants and biosolid-treated land is recommended.

Research 515

Research 515: Climate Resilient Places

Authors: Core research team - Thomas K.J. McDermott, Tom Gillespie, Indiana Olbert, Sogol Moradian and Emma J. Moran. Contributing researchers - Michael Puchley, Edel Doherty, Denis O’Hora, Ronan Lyons, Daniel Norton and Patrick McHale, May 2026

Year: 2026

This research led by University of Galway addressed a critical knowledge gap in how increasing flood risk due to climate change, will affect Irish communities at a local level. It examined future flood hazards and costs, how people understand these risks, and how planning, housing and adaptation policies influence community vulnerability. Using high‑resolution flood modelling, economic damage estimates, housing market analysis, planning data and stakeholder engagement, the project provides new local‑level evidence. The findings show that climate change will expand floodplains, increase uneven economic losses, and that housing markets only partly reflect risk. Perceptions of flood risk vary widely, highlighting the need for clearer communication. The results provide practical evidence to inform planning, infrastructure investment and adaptation, support better risk‑aware policies, and foster community engagement in building climate‑resilient places in Ireland.

Research 514

Research 514: F-gas Use, Scale and Environment (FUSE4i): An Improved Indicative Inventory for Ireland

Authors: Peter Wise, Reena Cole, Narjes Fallah, Mariagrazia Proto and Yvonne Ryan-Fogarty, May 2026

Year: 2026

Sulfur hexafluoride (SF6), F-gas, is a human made synthetic, colourless and odourless, non-flammable (GHG). It has the highest 100-year global warming potential (GWP) of all GHGs. This research led by a team in UL analysed SF6 use, conducted stakeholder engagement and used modelling to assess SF6 use, emissions data and Environmental Impact Assessment requirements in the power and semiconductor sectors. The findings highlighted weaknesses in data collection, reporting, and end‑of‑life management of SF6‑containing equipment. The research recommends ‘Best Practice’ emissions reducing alternatives and increased training for safe handling to support policymakers, regulators, and industry in meeting regulatory obligations. The findings also support improved regulation, emission reduction strategies, and circular economy objectives, while noting limitations related to reliance on industry to self‑report and challenges due to incomplete private‑sector data availability.

Research 513

Research 513: Assessing Administrative Burdens as Barriers to Implementation of Ireland’s Climate Action Plan

Authors: Cara Augustenborg, Patricia Lentz, Leonhard Lades, Margaret Samahita and Lucie Martin, April 2026

Year: 2026

Using an innovative mixed‑methods approach combining behavioural science and environmental policy, UCD researchers examined administrative factors that delayed implementation of three priority climate action schemes in Ireland, namely, the Afforestation Scheme 2023–2027, the Solar for Schools Programme and the Shared Island Sports Club EV Charging Scheme. The project screened climate actions, audited the three schemes, gathered stakeholder insights and tested behavioural impacts through surveys and experiments. Surveys, experiments and interviews showed reduced stakeholder understanding and engagement due to complex systems, excessive paperwork, poor communication and limited staffing. The findings provide policy actors with practical evidence and recommendations to reduce administrative burdens through more streamlined processes, clearer communication and ‘sludge audits’, supporting more accessible, equitable and effective climate policy delivery in Ireland.

Research 511

Research 511: Optimised Plus – Food Waste Collected from Apartments (OptiFood)

Authors: Celia Cremin, Percy Foster, Freya Bartels, Michele Giavini, Enzo Favoino, April 2026

Year: 2026

This research by Foster Environmental Ltd, aimed to address the environmental challenge of low food waste segregation in Irish apartment buildings. The 2022 national household municipal waste characterisation study found that only one third of food waste was correctly segregated into organic (brown) bins, and that apartment households had particularly poor food waste segregation practices. This research study found, through examining a range of interventions with apartment residents, that simple, targeted behavioural “nudges”, especially those that that make food waste segregation more convenient and personally engaging, can improve food waste segregation in apartment settings. The study’s innovative approach, combining behavioural psychology with practical waste infrastructure, offers a replicable model that could substantially increase food waste collection from apartment buildings nationwide.

Research 505

Research 506: Life Cycle Assessment of Hydrogen for Heavy-duty Vehicles: Hydrogen Environment Protection, Analysis, Awareness and Review (HEAR)

Authors: James G. Carton, Greg McNamara, Sevda Sabernia, Kevin Murphy, Corné Muilwijk and Sneha Sabu., January 2026

Year: 2026

Transportation in Ireland accounts for approximately 36% of total energy consumption, using predominantly fossil fuel. The HEAR desk study led by a team in DCU examined hydrogen as a sustainable fuel for heavy-duty vehicles in Ireland to meet Ireland’s fossil fuel reduction commitments. Mobility is essential, but current diesel-based systems pose environmental and health risks. A literature review and life cycle assessment evaluated hydrogen’s environmental impacts across production, transport, and refuelling compared to diesel. Findings show that green hydrogen, produced from renewable energy, is the least harmful option in key impact categories such as climate change and water pollution. The research provides stakeholders with new datasets on hydrogen’s potential role in reducing emissions. Further research is recommended on life cycle costs and hydrogen production pathways which the study notes should also be evaluated from other perspectives.

Research 506

Research 505: CircAI – Artificial Intelligence and the Circular Economy

Authors: Muhammad Salman Pathan and Peter Mooney, January 2026

Year: 2026

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is continually advancing and evolving, offering solutions to address challenges across many sectors of society including waste management and climate change. The Artificial Intelligence and the Circular Economy - CircAI project led by a team in Maynooth University explored how AI can support Ireland’s circular economy (CE). While global best practices show AI’s potential to optimise CE processes, the research highlighted that Irish Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) lack familiarity with its benefits and limitations. The findings revealed that use of AI is hindered by insufficient education and training on AI applications and CE principles. The research recommends the need for greater understanding by AI developers to meet stakeholders’ needs, increased funding for AI-driven CE models and financial incentives for SMEs. This could be facilitated by expert-led advisory groups informing policy, increased stakeholder collaboration, and educational platforms.

Research 504

Research 504: Sustainable, Biodegradable, Compostable and Recyclable Plastics for Packaging and End-of-life Management

Authors: Ramesh Babu Padamati, Kevin O’Connor, Purabi Bhagabati, Jessica De Micco, Saranya Rameshkumar, Bryan Dalton, Meryem Aqlil, Eoin Bird, Percy Foster and Tony Breton , January 2026

Year: 2026

In Ireland, plastic waste accounted for nearly 25% of total packaging waste in 2023, with only one-third of this waste recycled. The BioPOST project, led by a team in Trinity College, explored creating biodegradable plastic as sustainable alternatives to support Ireland’s commitment to meet the 55% recycling target by 2030 under the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation. Testing sorting systems and exploring sustainable recycling options on a pilot scale were also central to the research. Pilot trials achieved 60–90% segregation of biodegradable plastics using optical sorting and demonstrated that most blends were compostable under Irish industrial conditions. Findings show current infrastructural deficits impede effective segregation and recovery and recommend the need for systems for labelling, collection, and recycling to enable bioplastic circularity. Policy actors are provided with feasible options and evidence to produce, sort and recycle biodegradable plastic composites.

Climate Research Ireland 2024

Climate Research in Ireland 2024

The National Environmental Coordination Group (NERCG) supports and promotes coordination and knowledge exchange between state bodies involved in funding Environmental research in Ireland., December 2025

Year: 2025

This report has been prepared by the EPA on behalf of the NERCG to highlight climate and climate-related funding by the members for the previous year.

Research 503

Research 503: The Irish Hydrometric Reference Network Version 2.0

Authors: Paul O’Connor, Conor Murphy and Niamh Cahill, December 2025

Year: 2025

Hydrometric reference networks are crucial for tracking climate variability, hydrological modelling and extreme events. This research, led by a team in Maynooth University, enhanced the Irish Hydrometric Reference Network (IHRN) to better detect climate-driven changes in river flows across Ireland. Building on the EPA HydroDetect project, it adds a key tool for water management and addresses gaps in understanding floods, average flows and droughts. Findings show increasing high and mean flows in winter and decreasing low flows in spring and summer indicating greater flood and drought risks. Long-term reconstructions show stronger seasonal trends and the influence of the North Atlantic Oscillation. The updated IHRN dataset underscores the importance of hydrological modelling, flood risk management and climate resilience planning. The research recommends expanding the network to include groundwater and lakes with coordinated national oversight to ensure Ireland’s hydrological resilience.

Research 502

Research 502: Mainstreaming Circular Economies Through Collaboration and Co-creation (MainCirc)

Authors: Lisa O’Malley and Maria Lichrou, November 2025

Year: 2025

The Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector offers high potential for circular practices due to its significant environmental footprint and reliance on critical raw materials. The MainCirc project led by a team in University of Limerick in partnership with Green IT Ltd, an Irish Subject Matter Expert (SME), explored how circularity could be main streamed through innovative business models, focusing on remanufacturing ICT devices. A key achievement was Green IT’s inclusion in Ireland’s public procurement framework, making Ireland the first EU country to allow remanufactured ICT under its “Buying Greener” strategy. Findings revealed that remanufactured devices offer higher perceived value than refurbished ones, especially for organisational buyers. The project demonstrates the viability of circular ICT through "servitisation" a shift from product to service based business models and provides evidence informed insights for sustainable procurement.

Research 501

Research 501: The Impact of Extreme Weather Events on Ecosystems – Scoping Study (Extremes)

Authors: Mary Kelly-Quinn, Ashenafi Yohannes Battamo, Elke Eichelmann, John O’Sullivan and Md Salauddin, November 2025

Year: 2025

Evidence of accelerating pressures on ecosystems and biodiversity is mounting, particularly in terms of pollution and habitat fragmentation. This desk-study led by a team from UCD examined the potential impacts of extreme weather events (EWEs) on Ireland’s Special Areas of Conservation and Special Protection Areas. Stakeholder questionnaires highlighted habitat-specific vulnerabilities and varying sensitivities e.g., flooding and heavy rain threaten rivers and uplands; heatwaves affect lakes; droughts endanger fens and turloughs; and wildfires and storms damage forests and grasslands. A vulnerability framework combining exposure, sensitivity, and adaptive capacity tested on Dublin Bay’s Atlantic salt meadow showed potential for national application. Findings provide information to track climate change impacts and mitigate EWE impacts on protected sites It recommends targeted assessments, development of indicators, collection of multi-scale data, and enhancement of monitoring systems.

Research 500

Research 500: Operationalising Resilience in Climate Action (ORICA)

Authors: Conor Murphy, Miguel Angel Trejo Rangel, Tara Quinn, Róisín Moriarty and Ailbhe Gallagher, November 2025

Year: 2025

Ireland faces growing climate risks, demanding a coordinated and resilient adaptation strategy. The ORICA project led by ICARUS in Maynooth University examined how resilience is defined and implemented across Irish climate policy. While Ireland’s adaptation policies via the National Adaptation Framework (NAF) have evolved to include governance and equity, inconsistent definitions of resilience across policy documents create confusion, hindering alignment and effectiveness in implementation. Local authorities show potential for innovation, integrating nature-based solutions and community involvement. Key challenges include fragmented adaptation governance, limited resources, and unclear resilience targets. To advance, Ireland must unify its resilience definition, strengthen cross-sectoral coordination, shift from planning to action, and embed participatory decision-making processes approaches into adaptation planning.

Research 499

Research 499: The Role of Irish Small and Medium-sized Enterprises in the Transition to a More Circular Economy

Authors: Bernadette Power, Gordon Sirr, Geraldine Ryan and John Eakins, November 2025

Year: 2025

In support of Ireland's transition to a Circular Economy, the Trans2CirEcon research project conducted by University College Cork explored the role of Irish Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). Through surveys of SMEs and consumers, the research found low engagement in the Circular Economy. However, strong interest and willingness to participate in circular business models (CBMs) was identified, indicating a latent demand for Circular Economy products and services. Sectoral differences were noted, with construction, manufacturing, and retail SMEs favouring different CBMs and identifying different barriers and motivators. Consumer engagement with the Circular Economy also varied by product type and socioeconomic status. The research provides policy recommendations and interventions to address systemic barriers, foster innovation and support SME and consumer engagement in the Circular Economy.

Research 498

Research 498: Indicators of Air Pollution Effects in Ecosystems for Monitoring under the EU National Emission Reduction Commitments Directive

Authors: Thomas Cummins, Lorna Marcham and Keelan McHugh, November 2025

Year: 2025

EU member states are required to continuously monitor the state of ecosystems where negative effects of air pollution may occur, under the National Emission Commitments Directive (NEC). The NEC Indicators project led by a team in UCD reviewed indicators used to detect air pollution effects in sensitive ecosystems like bogs and semi-natural grasslands. It focused on ammonia, mainly from agriculture, and ozone, formed through chemical reactions involving industrial and transport emissions. The findings show that ozone levels are highest near Ireland’s Atlantic coast, decreasing inland and in urban areas due to deposition and chemical reactions. Researchers found that even low nitrogen inputs can significantly alter plant communities. The findings may be used to review and refine monitoring methods in the National Ecosystems Monitoring Network. Development of structures and communication within the monitoring community is encouraged.

Research 497

Research 497: Understanding Ozone Levels in Ireland

Authors: Liz Coleman, Nikhil Korhale, Damien Martin, Emmanuel Chevassus, Ling Zhen, Wei Xu and Colin D. O’Dowd, November 2025

Year: 2025

Ozone plays a crucial role in atmospheric chemistry, forming naturally in the stratosphere and at ground level through sunlight and precursor pollutants. While essential, ground-level ozone poses risks to human health and ecosystems. A University of Galway-led study explored the drivers of ozone pollution in Ireland, highlighting the influence of meteorology and transboundary emissions. Using long-term data and advanced modelling, researchers found that rural and coastal areas experience higher ozone levels than urban zones, though urban ozone is rising in Ireland and at a Global level due to declining NOₓ emissions. The study identifies methane as the main reactive carbon precursor to Irish ground-level ozone. The findings provide policy actors with evidence that supports the use of high-resolution modelling to understand ozone trends and recommends increased public awareness using educational campaigns.

Research 496

Research 496: INHALE: Irish Nationwide Health and Air Quality Linkage

Authors: Éilis J. O’Reilly, Claire Buckley, Christina Dillon and Stig Hellebust, October 2025

Year: 2025

Outdoor air pollution is “the single biggest environmental health risk”, accounting for almost 4.2 million premature deaths in 2019 (WHO, 2024). The INHALE project, led by University College Cork, reviewed global best practices for linking air quality and health data while protecting patient confidentiality. It proposed two solutions for Ireland: investing in trusted research environment (TRE) infrastructure to securely share de-identified, individual-level data, and a researcher-led method that links pollution data to Eircodes and merges it with health records through data custodians. The INHALE project provides policymakers with greater insight and evidence to facilitate cost-effective methods to address barriers in linking air quality and health data. It recommends more investment of dedicated resources to better understand the health effects of air pollution.

Research 495

Research 495: Source Apportionment of Air Pollution in the Dublin Port Area (PortAIR)

Authors: Kirsten Fossum, Niall O’Sullivan, Srishti Jain, Lu Lei, Chunshui Lin, Darius Ceburnis, Stig Hellebust, Colin O’Dowd, Jurgita Ovadnevaite and John Wenger, October 2025

Year: 2025

Dublin Port, Ireland’s largest freight and passenger port, brings significant economic and social benefits, however emissions from ships and other port-related activities contribute to climate change and air pollution. The PortAIR project conducted the first detailed study of air quality impacts from ships and port activities using continuous monitoring and advanced modelling throughout 2022. It identified two main ship plumes: one dominated by sulfate from high-sulfur fuel with scrubbers and another by organic species from low-sulfur fuels. Ship emissions peaked during manoeuvring. With port expansion planned, emission reduction strategies are recommended, including shore-side electricity, emission control zones, battery-powered vessel and cleaner fuels. The study highlights the importance of advanced instruments for continuous air quality monitoring and recommends the need for further research into mitigation technologies.

Research 492

Research 492: Artificial Intelligence as an Enabler of the Circular Economy

Authors: Enya O’Connell-Hussey, Veena Grace Thomas, Valentina Rangel Leon, Carlos Garcia, David McCormack and Geraldine T. Brennan, September 2025

Year: 2025

The Artificial Intelligence for Circular Economy in Ireland (AI4CE) research project found that while Ireland’s AI adoption rate exceeds the EU average, its use in advancing the circular economy (CE) is still in its early stages and mainly concentrated in waste and recycling. The findings highlight key barriers including low awareness of AI-CE synergies, financial limitations (especially for SMEs), data governance challenges, skill shortages, and resistance to change. AI4CE recommends more investment in education about AI, increased stakeholder collaboration, improved infrastructure, and clear business cases to demonstrate cost savings and efficiency gains. To support adoption, AI4CE developed three resources: a Decision Support Tool with case studies, a Best Practice & Policy Guide explaining AI-CE integration and regulations, and a Status Report summarising current AI use in Ireland’s CE landscape.

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