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., ‘INNOVATION FOR A GREEN ECONOMY’ is a non-technical report giving a brief snapshot of the story so far with regard to EPA-funded Environmental Technologies and Cleaner Production research and innovation projects along with details of the next steps in the area., STRIVE Report 32 - Paul Ryan et al., STRIVE Report 33- Aoife Burke, Summary of Findings - STRIVE Report 33, STRIVE Report 23 - Dmitri B. Papkovsky et al, STRIVE Report 29 - Barbara Fogarty et al., STRIVE Report 30 - Fiona Regan et al., STRIVE 37 - C. Gibson et al., STRIVE Report 36 - Tanja Radu et al., Summary of Findings - STRIVE Report 36, STRIVE Report 30 - Donal Keane, Eoin Flynn and Michael Morris, STRIVE Report 51 - Angela Boyce and Gary Walsh, STRIVE Report 53 - Breda M. Kiernan, Stephen Beirne, Cormac Fay and Dermot Diamond, STRIVE Report 45 - Xinmin Zhan, Mark G. Healy, Jianping Li and Daniel Norton, STRIVE Report 57 - Yaqian Zhao, STRIVE Report 55 - John W. McGrath and John P. Quinn, STRIVE Report 63 - Michael O’Dea and Noel Duffy, STRIVE Report 65 - Mark M. O'Mahony, Niall D. O’Leary and Alan D.W. Dobson, 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., STRIVE Report 70 - Lorraine Nagle and James Rohan, Summary of Findings - STRIVE Report 70, 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, 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., Authors: Fiona Regan, Antóin Lawlor, Brendan O’Flynn and John Wallace. Lead Organisation: Dublin City University., STRIVE Report 64- Dermot Hughes, Anne Marie Enright, Thérèse Mahony, Vincent O’Flaherty, Authors: Dermot Hughes, Anne Marie Enright, Thérèse Mahony, Vincent O’Flaherty, 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, This publication highlights case studies from the EPA-supported Cleaner Greener Production programme from 2008-2012., EPA leaflet highlighting Irish involvement with European Joint Programming Initiative 'Cultural Heritage and Global Change: A new challenge', 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., ERC Report 17 - Mooney, P & Winstanley, AC, This project looks at upcycling waste plastic from Irish farms to a more valuable biodegradable form of plastic., 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 report details our progress towards the development of safer, less toxic and biodegradable chemicals called acid catalysts., 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 aim of this EPA funded project was to develop cost effective microfluidic platforms for enzymatic biofuel cells., 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 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., 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 aim of this EPA funded project was to develop cost effective microfluidic platforms for enzymatic biofuel cells., 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 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., This report details our progress towards the development of safer, less toxic and biodegradable chemicals called acid catalysts., 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., 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., Best Practices from the European Implementation Reviews of Environmental Law in the EU-28 Countries, 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, 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., 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., This project presents a method to cheaply produce high-capacity biosorbents from Irish brown seaweeds., 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 aims to distil out the best practices from the 28-Country EU Environmental Implementation Review 2019 (EIR)., 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. , 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., Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) is an important European Directive that aims to help protect the environment and promote sustainable development, it does this by enabling environmental considerations in the preparation of plans and programmes. Public participation is mandatory under SEA providing an opportunity for knowledge co-creation but participation is generally limited worldwide. It provides a platform to facilitate stakeholders learning, co-design sustainable solutions and inform decision-making. The SEAWAY research project looked to address two practical challenges in SEA implementation, the need for effective public participation and the need for strong key performance indicators to measure SEA effectiveness. This research delivers guidance notes on both public participation and a robust KPI framework to measure SEA effectiveness, in addition to training and video resources for use by planners, government departments and consultants undertaking SEA for public bodies., Report on a background study for the National Spatial Strategy, Developing a suitable methodology in SEAs of development plans and programmes in Ireland, This research project aimed to develop an SEA (Strategic Environmental Assessment) methodology for the successful implementation of the SEA Directive., Identifies key links between sizes of settlements and their sustainability., Meeting immediate needs of National Spatial Strategy, STRIVE 92: Brendan Williams & Sheila Convery, STRIVE 67 - Olaf Schmidt, Aidan M. Keith, Julio Arroyo, Tom Bolger, Bas Boots, John Breen, Nicholas Clipson, Fiona M. Doohan, Christine T. Griffin, Christina Hazard and Robin Niechoj, Summary of Findings: STRIVE 67, STRIVE 76 - Florence Renou-Wilson, Tom Bolger, Craig Bullock, Frank Convery, Jim Curry, Shane Ward, David Wilson and Christoph Müller, STRIVE 75, Florence Renou-Wilson, Tom Bolger, Craig Bullock, Frank Convery, Jim Curry, Shane Ward, David Wilson, Christoph Müller, epa environmental protection agency, Sustainable Management of Peatlands in Ireland-Final Report, BOGLAND,, STRIVE 38 - Stephen Boyle and Thomae Kakouli-Duarte, STRIVE 58 - Michael H.B. Hayes, Corinna J.M.P. Byrne, Julieta A. Ferreira, Etelvino H. Novotny, Guixue Song, STRIVE 35 - G. Kiely et al., Final report for the ERTDI-funded project 2005-FS-32, Quantification of the components of the carbon budget at farm scale, Final report for the ERTDI-funded project 2000-LS-3.2.4-M2, Final report for the ERTDI-funded project 2005-S-DS-22-M1, ERTDI Report 69 - D. Fay et al., Report on a background study for the National Spatial Strategy, Research project to meet the requirements of Environmental Noise Directive. The primary aim of the project is to establish baseline data for Quiet Areas in Ireland., Developing a suitable methodology in SEAs of development plans and programmes in Ireland, This research project aimed to develop an SEA (Strategic Environmental Assessment) methodology for the successful implementation of the SEA Directive., Identifies key links between sizes of settlements and their sustainability., Meeting immediate needs of National Spatial Strategy, STRIVE 98: John Connolly and Nicholas Holden, In 2010 the Environmental Protection Agency, Department of Transport and National Transport Authority commissioned this feasibility study into a national transport model for Ireland., STRIVE Report 118 - Gerard Kiely et al, This research fellowship has applied a number of geophysical techniques in conjunction with conventional approaches, to a number of areas of concern in relation to threats to Irish Soils., This research fellowship has applied a number of geophysical techniques in conjunction with conventional approaches, to a number of areas of concern in relation to threats to Irish Soils., The overall objective of the Irish Soil Information System project was to conduct a programme of structured research into the national distribution of soil types and construct a soil map, at 1:250,000 scale, which would identify and describe the soils according to a consistent national legend., The overall objective of the Irish Soils Information System project was to conduct a programme of structured research into the national distribution of soil types and construct a soil map, at 1:250,000 scale, which would identify and describe the soils according to a consistent national legend., The objectives of this desk study were to review the current EU and Irish legislations, policies and available data which assess or encompass soil protection issues for Ireland., This Guide accompanies Research 178A: Quantitative Evaluation of Settlement Sustainability Policy, This report explains a method and decision support tool designed to aid Local Authorities and communities in prioritising policies which benefit the environment and are appropriate for their circumstances., This report has synthesised the soil profile descriptions taken as part of the Irish Soil Information System project and developed a range of soil property maps to provide users with generalised descriptions of a range of soil properties which are relevant to soil science research and soil management advice in Ireland. The property maps include; soil texture, soil depth, soil pH, soil bulk density and soil carbon., Research Report 200 detailing the Health and Water Quality Impacts Arising from Land Spreading of Biosolids, The primary objective of this literature review was to collate and assess the available literature on the environmental impact of cattle access to watercourses, with an emphasis on empirical research that is directly relevant to the environmental effects., Land use and land use change have a significant impact on national greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and are therefore an integral part of national GHG reporting, as laid out by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. In Ireland, land use and land use change reporting is currently based on total national agricultural area data provided by the Central Statistics Office., Review of recent international literature on environmental impacts of the transport sector and on the integration of environmental considerations into transport planning and operations, Economic and non-economic approaches to assessing environmental effects. , Background levels of metal(loid)s coupled with anthropogenic sources may lead to increased levels of certain metal(loid)s in soil, leading to potential uptake by plants. This study develops a source–pathway–receptor conceptual model for metal(loid)s in environmental media. The study presents an approach that can be extended to further evaluate pollutants and their environment–health interactions., Landscape character assessment (LCA) describes variation in the character of the landscape and elements and identifies the features that make landscapes unique. The Reframe LCA project identified the absence of a coherent policy approach when it comes to LCA in Ireland and a lack of baseline information at national and regional scales. This makes it difficult to describe and assess landscape character and creates an inconsistent approach to landscape planning and management across scales and between authorities. The project developed a comprehensive, step-by-step toolkit and a training module to support stakeholders, including state bodies, local authorities and community groups, in undertaking comprehensive LCAs at different scales across Ireland. It aims to support national policy objectives, including those related to mitigation of and adaption to climate change, the agricultural and energy sectors, forestry and transport, National Landscape Strategy & National Planning Framework. , Final Report from ERTDI-funded project: 2004-SD-DS-12-M2, Final Report for ERTDI-funded project: 2000-DS-6-M1, Synthesis report from the ERTDI-funded project: 2001-MS-SE1-M1, Final report from the ERTDI-funded project: 2001-MS-SE1-M1, Final report from the ERTDI-funded project: 2001-MS-SE1-M1, Final report from the ERTDI-funded project: 2001-MS-SE1-M1, ERTDI Report 80 - Sheila Flanagan et al., ERTDI Report 70 - David Styles and Michael Jones, STRIVE Report 1 - Cathy Maguire and Robin Curry, STRIVE Report 2 - Richard Moles & Bernadette O'Regan, ERTDI Report 74 - Bullock et al., STRIVE Report 18 - Margaret Desmond, STRIVE Report 13 - B. O'Regan & R. Moles, STRIVE Report 17 - Frances Fahy, Practitioner’s Guide - STRIVE Report 17, STRIVE 19 - B. O'Regan & R. Moles, Guide to Establishing an Eco-Industrial Network - STRIVE Report 17, STRIVE Report 25 - Gearóid Ó Riain and Tim McCarthy, STRIVE Report 47 - Seán Lyons and Richard S.J. Tol, STRIVE Report 44 - Mark Scott et al., STRIVE Report 41 - G. Mullally et al., STRIVE Report 86 - Michael Ewing, Alison Hough and Magnus Amajirionwu, STRIVE Report 92 - Brendan Williams and Sheila Convery, STRIVE Report 103 - John Curtis et al., Summary of Findings - STRIVE Report 103, The CONSENSUS research project conducted foundational and exploratory research to establish the parameters of debates and actions within the field internationally and across Ireland., ECORISK had the objective of exploring methods whereby the valuation of social and economic impacts could be used to supplement established methods of environmental damage assessment for the purposes of remediation., Research Report 220 on Financial Incentives to Promote Citizen Investment in Low-carbon and Resource-efficient Assets, Decoupling economic growth from environmental quality is an imperative for Ireland, as with other modern developed economies. Not only has economic growth been linked with environmental sustainability impacts, but more recently social sustainability has also been highlighted in terms of its relationship to, and impacts from, the economy., This research critically reviewed community interventions and sustainable-behaviour change programmes identifying drivers (enablers) adopted by those interventions. The aim was to distinguish key characteristics of success while also identifying barriers to sustainable transition and change., Sustainable consumption and production demands behaviour changes. Policymakers and regulators already apply a range of interventions and incentives with a view to changing individual and organisational behaviour. This includes fiscal incentives, subsidies, pricing mechanisms and market-based instruments, standards, eco-labels and communication, business support programmes and curriculum development., In relation to experimentation with, and demonstration of, novel management approaches and technologies designed to enhance sustainability, higher education institution (HEI) campuses have been identified as ideal testing grounds, as they embrace a diverse population and act as a microcosm of wider society, and control space for demonstration projects., This desktop research project explores ways to advance understanding of the values and motivations that influence sustainable consumption behaviour in Irish society., The EPIIC (Environmental Policy Integration: Innovation and Change) project explored the relevance of environmental policy integration (EPI) for Irish environmental governance. EPI involves bringing environmental concerns into all other policy sectors, notably into agriculture, energy and transport., The environmental compliance and enforcement landscape has evolved significantly over the last number of decades, with policy and legislation serving as a key driver. The nuances and complexities of compliance and enforcement have also evolved, as they now require a better understanding of the barriers and challenges, drivers and incentives, and the behavioural and contextual factors at play among regulated communities., The ultimate objective of environmental regulation is the prevention and reduction of environmental harm from pollution, habitat loss and resource depletion. The findings from this research provide an update of current practices and recent changes introduced in some jurisdictions., The need to involve voluntary communities at local level in the implementation of successful sustainable development programmes to achieve reductions in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions is widely recognised. This research identified 36 Irish communities that were, or were actively planning to be, involved in local-scale action to enhance sustainability. Six of the 36 were selected for this research project., The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a call for change – a change to how we live, work, think and interact, both with each other and with our environment, to protect and secure our future and the future of the planet. This report captures the key recurring themes from Ireland’s engagement to date with the seven environmental SDGs and its role in supporting the private sector to deliver impactful contributions to these SDGs., Plastic has become a ubiquitous material globally. Research quantifying the amount of plastic in the environment has prompted calls for action to tackle the use of this problem material. Aiming to reduce individual plastic consumption, this research revealed practical barriers to behaviour change including a lack of easy access to plastic-free options, the cost of plastic-free shopping and a lack of information on plastic-free options., This study set out to catalyse the sustainability transition of communities using the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as a framework. The research had a branded, public-facing campaign, Spark Change (www.sparkchange.ie), which recruited communities to an SDG challenge, effectively asking and supporting them to progress their sustainability transition and related SDG actions., This research project assesses the potential for novel cultural practices to communicate environmental data and issues to the public in Ireland against the backdrop of local and international environmental pressures. It makes recommendations towards developing solutions to the communication of environmental data to publics and developed a solution in the form of an online database of novel cultural practices., The Public Participation Networks (PPNs) were established through the 2014 Local Government Reform Act in order to “provide a mechanism by which citizens can have a greater say in local government decisions which affect their own communities”. This report presents the findings from an action research project in which a toolkit to develop visions of community wellbeing was co-designed with four PPNs., Analyses the effects of the introduction of a carbon tax in order to see how it would affect different households. The report focuses especially on vulnerable households., Examines the implementation of a fertiliser tax as an incentive to farmers to apply fertilisers more sensitively with the objective of reducing contamination., Examines the proposal for a tax applied on the carbon content of all forms of energy consumed in Ireland., Strategic Environmental Assessments (SEAs) aim to identify and mitigate environmental impacts resulting from the implementation of plans and programmes before they are adopted. This research was based on a literature review, interviews with 28 international and Irish experts, and a review of 19 Irish case studies. The research identified a range of good practice approaches to impact assessment tiering, which can be summarised as better communication between SEA and EIA practitioners., This Guidance on SEA-EIA Tiering aims to improve the links between SEA and EIA, using a range of good practice examples. It focuses on improving communication between SEA and EIA: getting SEA practitioners to write SEAs with EIAs in mind, and EIA practitioners to refer to SEAs in their EIA Reports. It also identifies institutional issues that can set a context which restricts tiering, including ‘silo assessment’, lack of training, and restrictive legal requirements. , Consumer behaviour represents acts or decisions that influence the direction of production and consumption activities, which are, in turn, driven by household and, ultimately, economic activities. This research investigated the linkages between habits and norms that drive behavioural attitudes and preferences, and how consumers’ socio-economic background, community, beliefs, etc. are identified as the driving factors of consumer behaviour and waste patterns., The United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development require governments to take ownership and establish frameworks for the achievement of the 17 global goals. Ireland has mapped existing policies and programmes against each of the 169 SDG sub targets, setting out a roadmap for achieving the goals. CoDesRes developed and explored a series of proof-of-concept methods and from this created two toolkits. As interventions, the toolkits (community peer-to-peer learning and place-based STEAM education) localise the implementation of the SDGs and offer insights into adaptive opportunities to engage the public., Nature continues to be degraded globally. Despite our societies and economies depending on it, we often ignore or undervalue this degradation. To bring nature into everyday decision-making, the natural capital approach deliberately uses the language of business and economics. In this context, nature can be thought of as an array of stocks of natural assets, incorporating biodiversity, air, water and geology. The condition of these stocks influences the flow of goods and services, and the benefits that our societies and economies derive from these assets. This EPA Research Report provides insights into the development of natural capital accounts at the catchment scale in Ireland. It aims to provide a comprehensive view of the stocks of natural capital assets and the flows of services, along with guidance on how to scale-up the process to national level. , The need for transformational climate adaptation that moves beyond the business-as-usual approach currently employed by a large majority of governments is becoming increasingly evident as the environmental, social and economic benefits of early and proactive adaptation are observed. The pressures of climate change require society-wide ownership of adaptation. However, for this to happen, all voices need to be represented in decision-making throughout the adaptation process. An assessment of the national climate adaptation policies of the five jurisdictions of Ireland and the UK was conducted to identify barriers and enabling conditions for adaptation in each of the jurisdictions. , Green Public Procurement (GPP) is acknowledged nationally and at EU level as a key policy lever in improving sustainability. This Green Public Procurement: Analysis and Support (GAPS) project led by a team in University of Galway examined factors that limit public sector uptake of green procurement and developed tools to facilitate its implementation. Using expert surveys, case studies, and workshops, the research found that unclear criteria, limited training, governance constraints and low supplier readiness impede adoption, while standardised criteria, strong mandates, capacity building, and market incentives can drive progress. Key outputs included a carbon footprint calculator covering Scope 1–3 emissions and a searchable GPP case study finder. The findings and recommendations provide a clear pathway for Irish public sector organisations, offering scalable approaches needed to enhance Ireland’s GPP performance., Developing a methodology for identifying and undertaking risk assessments of sites where waste disposal or recovery activities have been carried on and implementing the necessary measures to prevent or limit any associated environmental pollution., Findings of the research project Environmental Attitudes and Behaviour: Values, Actions and Waste Management, A synthesis of the findings of the research project Environmental Attitudes and Behaviour: Values, Actions and Waste Management, Aims to develop the specification for a software tool that could facilitate a process of benchmarking and internal development of an environmental management system among IPC licensees, in addition to assisting electronic reporting., Project to develop methodology for determining the waste character of non-household municipal waste nationally., Report developed as part of the medium-scale project: Assessment and Evaluation of Outlets for Materials that can be Recovered from Municipal Waste (2000-MS-8-M1)., Summary of Findings - STRIVE Report 97, List of Sustainable Environment Projects funded by EPA Research Programme since 2007., STRIVE Report 74 - Siobhán N. Jordan, Laura B. Holland and Suzanne U. Linnane, Summary of Findings - STRIVE Report 74, Author : Dr. Mary Purcell, Cork Institute of Technology, STRIVE Report 84 - Abigail O’Callaghan-Platt and Tadhg Coakley, STRIVE Report 72 - Martina McGuinness and David Dowling, Summary of Findings - STRIVE Report 72, ERC Report 16 - David Styles and Michael B. Jones, STRIVE Report 34 - Leon Barron et al., Summary of Findings - STRIVE Report 34, STRIVE Report 40 - Sarah Miller et al., Summary of Findings - STRIVE Report 40, STRIVE Report 26 - Mark Kelly and John Hanahoe, Summary of Findings - STRIVE Report 22, STRIVE Report 22 - M. Prasad & P. Foster, Summary of Findings - STRIVE Report 16, STRIVE Report 16 - B. Guinan et al., Summary of Findings - STRIVE Report 11, STRIVE Report 11 - Carmel Carey et al., Summary of Findings - STRIVE Report 10, STRIVE Report 10 - Abigail O’Callaghan-Platt and Anna Davies, STRIVE Report 9 - Abigail O’Callaghan-Platt and Anna Davies, Final Report for the ERTDI-funded project 2005-WRM-DS-23, by Carmel Carey, Warren Phelan & Conall Boland, Interim Report for the ERTDI-funded project 2005-WRM-MS-33, by A. O'Callaghan-Platt & A. Davies, Final report for the ERTDI project 2001-LS-FW2-M1 by Julian Marchesi, Niall O’Leary, Jill Kirby, Margaret Toomey and Alan Dobson, A first attempt at generating material flow accounts (MFAs) for Ireland., A first attempt at generating material flow accounts (MFAs) for Ireland. Identifies methodologies, as well as major data gaps for the future production of such accounts., Synthesis report of ERTDI-funded project: 2000-MS-11-M2, Final report of ERTDI-funded project: 2000-MS-11-M2, Developing a framework for Ireland's waste prevention policies and programmes, Collection trials in five locations throughout Ireland in order to characterise and quantify WEEE arisings, and to examine outlets for collected WEEE., Developing a definitive methodology to guide holders of waste through categorisation of waste, and which could also be used by regulators in making a determination., Aims to develop the specification for a software tool that could facilitate a process of benchmarking and internal development of an environmental management system among IPC licensees, in addition to assisting electronic reporting., Developing a framework for Ireland's waste prevention policies and programmes, Report developed as part of the medium scale project: Assessment and Evaluation of Outlets for Materials that can be Recovered from Municipal Waste (2000-MS-8-M1). Other deliverables related to this project include a report: A Strategy for Developing Recycling Markets in Ireland and Fact Sheets on each material waste stream., This report provides guidance on the beneficial use of dredge material in Ireland. It provides information on dredge material characterisation, best international practice in dredge material management, a summary of current practice in Ireland and guidance on the relevant governing legislation., Reuse is considered as a potential building block towards achieving more sustainable consumption of electrical and electronic equipment, covering environmental, economic and social dimensions., Summary of findings for STRIVE 110 - 'RE-Evaluate - Re-use of Electrical and Electronic Equipment (Evaluation and Mainstreaming)', This project looks at new methods to safely and cheaply recycle LCD screens, This project looks at new methods to safely and cheaply recycle LCD screens., The purpose of this study was to assess the current situation in Ireland and elsewhere with regard to resource efficiency and to recommend how, by the development of a roadmap, Irish performance could be improved., This study has moved the focus towards the top of the waste hierarchy by investigating the implementation of waste reduction strategies during the design and construction phases of two selected case studies, through a close collaboration with Scott Tallon Walker Architects and John Sisk & Son., This study has moved the focus towards the top of the waste hierarchy by investigating the implementation of waste reduction strategies during the design and construction phases of two selected case studies, through a close collaboration with Scott Tallon Walker Architects and John Sisk & Son., This project identifies novel technologies for environmental enforcement to support local authorities., Research Report 173 detailing The Characterisation of Dairy Waste and the Potential of Whey for Industrial Fermentation, Using a range of data sources including census data, historical WEEE audits and comprehensive sampling this project employed material flow analysis and statistical methods (Weibull Probability Density Function) to estimate future return rates of historical WEEE., This report examines issues surrounding non-sustainable plastic production, use and disposal and highlights the challenges associated with limited commercial uptake of wholly biodegradable polymers., This report is a Review of Waste/Resource Exchange Systems and Good Practice Guide, This report is a Material Reuse Good Practice Guide for anyone interested in extending the life-cycle of their items, Research Report 201 detailing the Investigation of Liquid Crystal Displays as a Source of Indium, This report provides a range of recommendations aimed at supporting preparation for re-use of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) that will support the extension and development of this activity in Ireland., The Towards Land Cover Accounting and Monitoring (TaLAM) project is part of Ireland’s response to creating a national land cover mapping programme. Its aims are to demonstrate how the new digital map of Ireland, Prime2, from Ordnance Survey Ireland (OSI), can be combined with satellite imagery to produce land cover maps., This study explored human behaviour in relation to small WEEE recycling through 26 in-depth interviews with 30 participants; observations and casual conversations at a civic amenity site and waste collection event; and participant observation at 25 retailers. The study proposes a multi-pronged approach to social marketing campaigns with the aim of increasing participation in small WEEE recycling., The purpose of this desk study was to identify and examine the most important manufacturing and service sectors from environmental and economic perspectives and from the perspective of potential for improvement in resource efficiency., Recent research has demonstrated the presence of restricted persistent organic pollutant (POP) brominated flame retardants (BFRs) in items such as children’s toys and food contact articles. As the presence of these contaminants in such items serves no useful purpose, they are thought to originate from the use of recycled plastics that were originally treated with BFRs., AgriBenchmark explored the possibilities for benchmarking of nutrient management performance on Irish farms. Teagasc National Farm Survey (NFS) data (2008–2015; 1446 farms) was used to characterise and explore the potential for improvement of farm nutrient management performance and resultant aspects of environmental and economic sustainability through the derivation of three key performance indicators., Ireland’s renewable energy targets for 2020 include 16% renewable energy; this can be broken down to 40% renewable electricity, 12% renewable heat and 10% renewable transport. Owing to the commercialisation of wind energy, the progression of carbon-free electricity generation is under way; however, this is not the case for heat and transport., Food waste is a global problem that has environmental, social and economic consequences. According to the hierarchy of waste management, prevention is the most favourable action to take when trying to manage food waste. The commercial sector, which refers to food wholesale, retail and service, accounts for 17% of food waste in European countries., Substantial environmental costs result from infant feeding decisions, not only regarding milks, foods and equipment purchased, but also regarding disposal of plastics, packaging and food waste. Existing infant feeding policies and waste management guidance do not address the disposal and waste aspects., The LCDVal project aimed to illustrate the potential indium value contained in liquid crystal displays (LCDs) accessible via recovery techniques, therefore turning liquid crystal panel waste fractions into a resource for critical raw materials., The filling of teeth is one of the most routine and common tasks undertaken by dentists. Because of the availability of community fluoridation and improved dental care, Irish adults have fewer missing teeth; however, they have more teeth with fillings., Information and communication technology (ICT) devices contain critical raw materials. The TriREUSE project aimed to provide an insight into possible reuse rates for WEEE collections that target consumer ICT products with reuse potential. The project involved a series of 10 dedicated collection events that encouraged people to dispose of old or unwanted data-bearing devices, with the incentive of a free data destruction service., Waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) is the fastest growing waste stream in Europe. This research provides insight into consumer and business behaviours towards WEEE, particularly regarding how key decisions are made around WEEE disposal. This research determined a hybrid approach to WEEE target setting should be explored, using data available to Ireland and using aspects of the WEEE Calculation Tool., In Ireland, there are no national end-of-waste criteria for compost and digestate derived from source-separated materials. This study developed a quality standard for digestate and an updated standard for compost, it also recommends a strategy on how Ireland should implement national end-of-waste criteria for compost and digestate. It also examined best practice in other countries and options for having end-of-waste criteria., The project examined a potential solution to some aspects of the problem of slurry disposal from large-scale intensive pig units., In Ireland, organic “fines” residue, derived from the separation of municipal solid waste and sewage sludge from municipal wastewater treatment plants, are currently processed for disposal as wastes. The Valorisation of Composted Organic Fines and Sewage Sludge Using Pyrolysis project (OF-PYR) investigated the potential of slow pyrolysis as a technology for their treatment as an alternative to other disposal options., The overall aim of the project was to develop, demonstrate and test an innovative, practical and cost effective treatment system for poultry litter, and to minimise and abate the impact of land spreading., Final Report (ERTDI Report 54) of the ERTDI-funded project 2000-DS-6-M1, by Sue Scott and Dorothy Watson (ESRI), The key goal of this document was to formulate a national strategy to develop adequate, stable and reliable PBMW-compost market and non-market outlets, Mine waste storage facilities can generate significant quantities of wastewaters and leachates with extreme pH and elevated metal contents. Modern mine waste (tailings) facilities operating under licence from the EPA have constructed wetlands as a component of their Integrated Pollution Control (IPC) licences. This study provides evidence of the effectiveness of constructed wetlands for treating mine waters from different settings over time frames of several years., Recent EU legislation aims to strengthen reuse in all Member States and asks Member States to measure reuse, with the option of setting national targets in the future. By gathering information on the scale and size of the reuse sector in Ireland, we can benchmark and compare our reuse sector against others. This study assessed the capability of the Irish reuse sector to supply the data necessary for quantifying the extent of reuse in Ireland and informing Irish policymakers on the steps required to support the sector to report in the future., Food waste in Ireland has been estimated at 1.1 million tonnes per year, but this excluded farming, fishing and aquaculture (i.e. primary production), as there were no data on these sectors. This research has quantified and understood food waste in primary production and is a starting point in identifying areas that need addressing. The project has compiled various options for solutions available to tackle the specific food waste issues occurring in Ireland., This research provides enforcement authorities with viable options to use cost effective technological tools to quickly detect and react to industrial and waste crime. , The development of a methodology for identifying water-dependent habitats and hence protected areas with such habitats. It recorded these sites in digital form within a combined database and mapping system and recorded the water-dependent habitats and the species they contain., A desk study to develop a practical methodology for the assessment of river morphological conditions in Irish rivers, which takes account of the guidance from the Water Framework Directive implementation activities of the European Commission, national expertise and other forms of international best practice., The results from four separate field trials at separate sites covering a range of different subsoil types, whereby two sites were discharging septic tank effluent into conventional percolation areas and the other two were discharging secondary treated effluent from a peat filter into similar percolation areas., Identifies and reviews many situations where mathematical modelling can be a useful tool to assist in the understanding of hydrological and chemical transport and processes that occur in catchments, and the ecological response to anthropogenic alterations that affect them., A survey of 50 sites previously classified as high quality by the EPA, to determine whether they were of high ecological status (and thus could be used as reference conditions) and to use these spatial reference sites to develop the river typology for the Water Framework Directive., A study that asks whether Irish rivers contain estrogenic compounds. If so, at what concentrations? Are these levels likely to pose a threat to aquatic ecosystems, particularly wild fish? Is there a risk to drinking water supplies?, A study to quantify the total number and biomass of zebra mussels and to assess any changes to the population during the course of the study. Relevant water parameters and phytoplankton samples were analysed; direct ecological changes were also noted during the project., Report on the use of modelling non-point phosphorus loss from rural catchments in terms of the Water Framework Directive (WFD) objectives. The study focuses on physically based catchment-scale models which to date have not been applied to model phosphorus losses in Ireland., Assesses the environmental impacts of road run-off including a review of existing practice in road drainage design and maintenance for rural dual carriageways and motorways in Ireland and the assessment of any environmental impacts of such run-off., Identifies and reviews many situations where mathematical modelling can be a useful tool to assist in the understanding of hydrological and chemical transport and processes that occur in catchments, and the ecological response to anthropogenic alterations that affect them., The principal aim of this project was to develop a methodology for the derivation of the natural background quality for Irish groundwater bodies (it was not the intention to determine the composition of pristine groundwater bodies). International groundwater characterisation methodologies were also reviewed., Project looking primarily at surface freshwater resources and the effects of endocrine disrupting chemicals from wastewater treatment works, Project looking primarily at surface freshwater resources and the effects of endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) from wastewater treatment works, Review of literature, A study that asks whether Irish rivers contain estrogenic compounds. If so, at what concentrations? Are these levels likely to pose a threat to aquatic ecosystems, particularly wild fish? Is there a risk to drinking water supplies?, Synthesis Report of ERTDI-funded project: 2000-FS-2-M1, Final Report of ERTDI-funded project: 2000-FS-2-M1, ERTDI Report 57 - (Gary Free et al) - Synthesis Report from the ERTDI-funded project: 2002-W-FS-1-M1, Final Report of ERTDI-funded project: 2002-W-FS-1-M1 (Free et al.), Synthesis Report of the ERTDI-funded project: 2002-W-MS-17, Final Report for the ERTDI-funded project 2002-W-MS-17 (D. Taylor et al.), Synthesis Report of the ERTDI-funded project 2000-LS-2.3-M2, Final Report of the ERTDI-funded project 2000-LS-2.3.1.1-M2, Final Report of the ERTDI-funded project 2000-LS-2.3.1.1-M2, Final Report of the ERTDI-funded project 2000-LS-2.3.1.1-M2, Final Report of the ERTDI-funded project 2000-LS-2.3.1.2-M2, Final Report of the ERTDI-funded project 2000-LS-2.3.1.3-M2, Final Report for the ERTDI funded-project 2000-LS-2.1.2-M2 - This report is a synthesis of the findings from the 3 sub-projects., ERTDI Report 67 - Synthesis report from the ERTDI-funded project 2005-W-DS-24-M1 (W. Sheate & S. Bennett), Final report from the ERTDI-funded project 2005-W-DS-24-M1 (W. Sheate & S. Bennett), SEA, WFD, EPA, Synthesis Report for the ERTDI-funded project 2002-W-DS-8-M1 (S. Tynan et al)" /> Reports | Environmental Protection Agency
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Research 478

Research 478: Critical Raw Materials for Ireland for a Resource-Efficient Circular Economy (CIRCLE)

Authors: Ahmar Murtaza, Maham Mahnoor, Anum Inam, Ali Akbar Shah, Muhannad Ahmed Obeidi and Inam Ul Ahad, February 2025

Year: 2025

Global raw material supply is becoming increasingly complex and uncertain, exacerbated by resource scarcity and supply chain vulnerabilities. Critical raw materials (CRM) are vital for industrial growth and competitiveness and a resilient circular economy. Ireland lacked a raw material criticality assessment methodology tailored to its unique economic and resource landscape. To address this gap, the CIRCLE research project developed a CRM methodology tailored to Ireland’s economic and resource landscape. Three methods were developed for assessing raw material criticality with a total of 42 raw materials assessed. The research finding assist stakeholders, including industry and policymakers, in identifying essential materials for various industrial sectors, providing insights into potential supply risks and economic impacts. The report recommends the establishment of a national database to include CRM, Circular material use rate (CMUR) and material flow analysis data.

Research 477

Research 477: DESIGN – Detection of Environmental Sources of Infectious Disease in Groundwater Networks

Authors: Carlos Chique, Paul Hynds, Liam Burke, Dearbhaile Morris, Michael Ryan and Jean O’Dwyer, February 2025

Year: 2025

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.

Research 476

Research 476: Quantification of the Area of Land Burned and Habitats Affected by Wildfires in Ireland, 2015–2021, and the Resulting Emissions

Authors: Fiona Cawkwell, Emma Chalençon, Ned Dwyer, Clara Felberbauer, Stig Hellebust, Beatriz Martin, Thedmer Postma, Guy Serbin and Dean Venables, February 2025

Year: 2025

The atmospheric emissions and loss of biodiversity arising from wildfires in Ireland are poorly understood. In an Irish context, wildfires are uncontrolled fires in vegetation in the countryside or a wilderness area. This research, from the FLARES project, developed an automated methodology that allows the aftermath of wildfires to be mapped, and emissions to be estimated more accurately using factors determined specifically for Irish vegetation species, in this case gorse, heather and purple moor grass. Using earth observation techniques, the research highlights that burned areas were significantly larger than previously estimated and identifies that up to half of the area burned each year lies within designated protected areas. This mapping approach can be used for historical images, as well as those acquired by current and future sensors. It shows that the efficacy of measures taken to reduce the incidence of fire events can also be evaluated.

Research 474

Research 474: STEP_WISE: Spatiotemporal Epidemiology of Primary Waterborne Infections – Cryptosporidium and VTEC

Authors: Authors: Paul Hynds, Jean O’Dwyer and Martin Boudou, January 2025

Year: 2025

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.

Research 472

Research 472: Public Participation and Performance Criteria in Strategic Environmental Assessment: The Way Forward to Advancing Practice

Authors: Ainhoa González, Riki Therivel and Gloriana Vargas, December 2024

Year: 2024

Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) is an important European Directive that aims to help protect the environment and promote sustainable development, it does this by enabling environmental considerations in the preparation of plans and programmes. Public participation is mandatory under SEA providing an opportunity for knowledge co-creation but participation is generally limited worldwide. It provides a platform to facilitate stakeholders learning, co-design sustainable solutions and inform decision-making. The SEAWAY research project looked to address two practical challenges in SEA implementation, the need for effective public participation and the need for strong key performance indicators to measure SEA effectiveness. This research delivers guidance notes on both public participation and a robust KPI framework to measure SEA effectiveness, in addition to training and video resources for use by planners, government departments and consultants undertaking SEA for public bodies.

Climate Research 2023

2023 Climate Research Highlights

The National Environmental Coordination Group (NERCG) supports and promotes coordination and knowledge exchange between state bodies involved in funding Environmental research in Ireland., December 2024

Year: 2024

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 470

Research 470: FoodPath – Investigating Behavioural Interventions to Reduce Food Waste in Irish Households

Authors: Colum Gibson, Eileen Mitchell, Keelin Tobin, Alberto Longo, Sarah O’Connor and Elizabeth Gold, December 2024

Year: 2024

Food waste is a global issue with significant economic, social and environmental impacts, it is responsible for 8–10% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Ireland aims to reduce food waste by 50% by 2030 through initiatives like the Climate Action Plan, Waste Action Plan for a Circular Economy, and National Food Waste Prevention Roadmap. With food waste influenced by several socio-economic factors, behaviours and attitudes, EPA estimate that in Ireland 29% is generated by households. Building on the EPA's Stop Food Waste programme, the FoodPath project implemented two interventions: Intervention A using tools, nudges, and messaging via waste collectors proved a cost-efficient household food waste reduction model. Intervention B, targeting social norms via community groups, was less impactful but showed potential to amplify the effects of Intervention A. The research provides recommendations for behaviour change strategies and pathways for large-scale reductions in household food waste.

Research 467

Research 467: Raising Awareness of and Educating Consumers about Reusable Sanitary Products: Developing Strategies for the Promotion of Reusable Nappies, Wipes

Author: Abigail O’Callaghan-Platt, November 2024

Year: 2024

Widespread use of disposable single-use sanitary items, nappies and disposable wipes are causing harm to the land and marine environments. Many sanitary items can contain significant levels of plastic (e.g. up to 90% plastic in some menstrual items) and can form a large proportion of household waste (e.g. in 2022 nappies accounted for 10%). With the Single Use Plastics Directive and Waste Action Plan for a Circular Economy aiming to reduce single use plastics, and extend producer responsibility requirements, this research focuses on the use of more sustainable options for nappies, wipes and menstrual items. The research combined educational workshops and the provision of reusable alternatives through both the ‘Cloth Nappy Incentive Scheme’ and the ‘No Plastic. Period. Programme'. With a high level of public participation the research identifies four further research and four policy recommendations to enable increased national uptake of reusable nappies, baby wipes and menstrual items.

Research 466

Research 466: Forecasting WEEE Arising for Electric Vehicle Batteries and Photovoltaic Panels in Ireland

Authors: Michael Johnson, Narjes Fallah, Sheila Killian and Colin Fitzpatrick, October 2024

Year: 2024

Globally, energy systems are undergoing two simultaneous and radical transformations that present a new set of challenges in sustainable waste management: the electrification of the transportation network and the decarbonisation of the electricity grid. This research examines challenges and models scenarios for the sustainable management of LongWEEE. Electrical devices with a longer than average lifetime are classed as LongWEEE with this study focusing on solar photovoltaic (PV) panels and electric vehicle batteries (EVBs). Modelled results for both sectors out to 2050 show a lot of uncertainty regarding the quantities of LongWEEE that will be generated in the future, but that in dealing with inevitable increases WEEE management systems need to to be prepared to cover a range of eventualities. Both “pay when placed” and “pay when collected” financing approaches to collection and treatment were examined in the study with the “pay when placed” identified as the most prudent approach.

Research 465

Research 465: Diversification of Dairy and Beef Production for Climate-smart Agriculture

Authors: Maria Markiewicz-Keszycka, Paul Hynds, Donal O’Brien, Maeve Henchion and Áine Macken-Walsh, October 2024

Year: 2024

New agricultural practices are needed to meet EU carbon reduction targets and avoid penalties for not reaching these targets. Reporting under the Habitats Directive also suggests that, overall, farming has a negative impact on nature and biodiversity, particularly on intensive farms. Climate change and biodiversity loss are expected to have far-reaching market, economic, business and policy impacts on the agricultural sector. This research desk study sought to develop recommendations for the pro-environmental diversification of dairy and beef farms by conducting a best practice literature review, interviews with innovative farmers, a national farmers survey and modelling the environmental impact of diversification scenarios. The research provides suggestions and solutions for key policy actors and stakeholders that address the challenge of designing environmental schemes that are efficient for nature, help address climate commitments and are economically attractive for farmers.

Research 464

Research 464: ClimAg: Multifactorial Causes of Fodder Crises in Ireland and Risks due to Climate Change

Authors: Nithiya Streethran, Kieran Hickey, Astrid Wingler and Paul Leahy, October 2024

Year: 2024

Ireland’s temperate climate favours almost year-round grass growth, which has supported the development of a successful pasture-based farming system. However, this has been threatened by repeated severe shortfalls in fodder stocks, with resulting impacts on yields, revenues, and animal welfare. Grass growth may be influenced by a number of factors, including droughts, heat stress and other drivers, which can lead to the emergence of a fodder crisis. This research identified the key drivers of historic fodder crises, and investigated whether such events will become more or less frequent or severe under the climatic changes projected for Ireland. An impact-based five-level fodder crisis severity index has also been designed to classify fodder crisis events. The research recommends the need for measures to avoid the emergence of multi-annual events, these include increases in stored fodder provision, early warning systems and earlier closure in autumn to help growth recovery in spring.

Research 463

Research 463: Identifying the Source and Scale of Plastic in Compost Derived from Household and Commercial Food Waste

Authors: Percy Foster, Tony Breton and Eoin Bird, October 2024

Year: 2024

The presence of contaminants in food waste bins requires further processing of the material, it incurs higher costs to remove the contaminants and results in lower value compost and digestate. This research indicates that the amount of plastic contamination in biowaste collections is increasing and that there is a need to significantly reduce the input of contaminants, particularly plastics, into the soil from the application of compost and digestate derived from food waste. Using 50 waste characterisation studies the research provides new information and insights on the trends in types of plastic contamination. With extensive stakeholder engagement and a comprehensive review of policy legislation, the research also provides policy actors and relevant stakeholders with information and recommendations on how to address issues associated with plastic contamination in compost.

Research 462

Research 462: Sustainable and Holistic management of Irish Ports (SHIP)

Authors: Wesley Flannery, Christina Kelly and Brendan Murtagh, October 2024

Year: 2024

Ireland’s ports and harbours are of strategic importance and are essential for its local, regional, and national economies. Ports are vital hubs that connect manufacturers, traders and consumers within global supply chains. Ports also play an important role in sustainable transport, as shipping is the most energy-efficient way to move freight and goods over longer distances. Nonetheless, ports can also be responsible for adverse environmental, health and social impacts such as air, water and noise pollution; traffic congestion; and damage to terrestrial and marine ecosystems. The (SHIP) project investigated methods to overcome challenges identified across the complex nature of ports and the diverse range of port activities and stakeholders to facilitate Ireland’s transition towards more sustainable port practices. It delivers a policy framework with recommendations on port governance, innovation, decarbonisation, port connectivity, efficiency and investment.

Research 461

Research 461: Reframe Landscape Character Assessment

Authors: Ruth Minogue, Karen Foley, Craig Bullock, Ronan Hennessy, Eilis Vaughan, Conor Norton, Pat Doherty and Laura Kearney, September 2024

Year: 2024

Landscape character assessment (LCA) describes variation in the character of the landscape and elements and identifies the features that make landscapes unique. The Reframe LCA project identified the absence of a coherent policy approach when it comes to LCA in Ireland and a lack of baseline information at national and regional scales. This makes it difficult to describe and assess landscape character and creates an inconsistent approach to landscape planning and management across scales and between authorities. The project developed a comprehensive, step-by-step toolkit and a training module to support stakeholders, including state bodies, local authorities and community groups, in undertaking comprehensive LCAs at different scales across Ireland. It aims to support national policy objectives, including those related to mitigation of and adaption to climate change, the agricultural and energy sectors, forestry and transport, National Landscape Strategy & National Planning Framework.

Research 460

Research 460: SoMoSAT – Soil Moisture Estimates from Satellite-based Earth Observations

Authors: Rowan Fealy, Tim McCarthy, Rafale De Andrade Moral, Ajay Sathiyan Nair, Dazhi Li, Kazeem Ishola, Reamonn Fealy and Lilian O’Sullivan, September 2024

Year: 2024

Soil moisture interactions for climate, and their relevance for understanding hydrological, agricultural and ecological processes are recognised and acknowledged as important. Nonetheless, there is a paucity of soil water observations globally. Even at the regional and country scale, only limited observations are available. This research uses machine learning with remote sensing data and data from deployed in-situ soil moisture sensors to derive a harmonised soil moisture product for Ireland. Based on independent tests of the models it was found to largely reproduce the available soil moisture measurements. A key output from the research was the deployment of a number of in situ soil moisture sensors, which will support a national initiative to deploy an integrated network of soil moisture sensors across Ireland. The research highlights the need for an integrated monitoring infrastructure to facilitate consistently measuring soil moisture in Ireland.

Research 459

Research 459: Roadside Emissions in Dublin: Measurements and Projections (REDMAP)

Authors: Srinath Mahesh, Adam Clarke, Ben Fowler, Rebecca Rose, Aonghus McNabola, William Smith, David Timoney, Jasmine Wareham, Paul Willis and Bidisha Ghosh, September 2024

Year: 2024

In Ireland, transport accounts for about 20% of emissions, and 95.8% of these emissions are caused by on-road vehicles. Although several pieces of legislation and policies have been developed to tackle this issue the impact of these in reducing emissions have been lower than originally anticipated. A key challenge is the discrepancy between vehicle type approval tests and real-world emissions from vehicles powered by fossil fuels. This research addresses a knowledge gap about trends in the emission factors of vehicles that conform to different emission standards, use varying fuel types and have high mileage. Real-world measurement techniques were used to quantify emissions from over 130,000 vehicles, including cars, light goods vehicles, heavy goods vehicles and buses. Integrating the data into a dispersion model helped established a more accurate representation of air pollution levels in Dublin. It recommends low emission zones, vehicle restrictions and phasing out older vehicles.

Research 458

Research 458: A Critical Analysis of Ireland’s Circular Material Use Rate (CAIR)

Authors: Jack McCarthy, Colman McCarthy, Carlos Pablo Sigüenza, Gergo Suto, Colum Gibson, Claire Downey and Adam Boland , July 2024

Year: 2024

Ireland has registered a relatively poor score in terms of the Circular Material Use Rate (CMUR) – a key circular economy metric of the European Union. Ireland’s policy ambitions are to surpass the EU average in this metric by 2030. The aims of the CAIR (a Critical Analysis of Ireland’s circular material use Rate) project were to firstly identify factors driving Ireland’s relatively low CMUR performance and secondly to identify actions through which Ireland’s CMUR score could be improved. The research activities included an interrogation of how the CMUR metrics function, analysis of the data used, a comparison of the data and statistical profile of Ireland with three other Member States, and the development of proposals for improving Ireland's CMUR score.

Research 457

Research 457: Towards a Climate-neutral Land Sector by 2050 Scenarios Quantifying Land-Use & Emissions Transitions Towards Equilibrium with Removals (SeQUEsTER)

Authors: David Styles, Colm Duffy, Remi Prudhomme, George Bishop, Mary Ryan and Cathal O’Donoghue, June 2024

Year: 2024

Ireland’s agriculture, forestry and other land use (AFOLU) sector accounts over 40% of national greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The Climate Action and Low Carbon Development Act 2021 commits Ireland to reach a legally binding target of net-zero GHG emissions by 2050, yet emissions from this sector continues to rise. Globally, it is assumed that land management will provide a net carbon sink to offset residual emissions from agriculture and other sectors. However, Ireland’s land sector is a large net emitter of carbon dioxide (CO2) owing to large areas of drained organic soils and low afforestation rates relative to forest harvest rates. SeQUEsTER uniquely applied a back-casting approach to identify what “solutions” to net zero could look like for the agriculture and land sector.

Research 454

Research 454: Farm-Carbon: Hedgerows and Non-forest Woodland (Hedgerow Carbon Project)

Authors: Lilian O’Sullivan, Gary Lanigan, Daire Ó hUallacháin, Shiva Rahimi-Tanha and Kevin Black, March 2024

Year: 2024

The EU aims to be climate neutral by 2050. Central to this ambition is land management that supports carbon sequestration, and enhancement of carbon sinks or the reversal of their emissions. Current national greenhouse gas emission inventory submissions to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change show that the land use, land use change and forestry (LULUCF) sector is a net source of emissions in Ireland. However, emissions and removals are not currently disaggregated in national emission inventory estimates. Currently, hedgerows are not explicitly accounted for in national inventory reports.

Research 453

Research 453: HydroPredict: Ensemble River Flow Scenarios for Climate Change Adaptation

Authors: Conor Murphy and Hadush Meresa, March 2024

Year: 2024

Higher greenhouse gas emissions are associated with large reductions in average summer and annual low flows in rivers. Changes in meteorological droughts in Ireland are driven by a transition to wetter winters and drier summers, together with increased evapotranspiration losses during summer and late spring months, leading to more frequent spring and summer droughts. The magnitude of future drought changes depends on future greenhouse gas emissions, with the most substantial changes found for higher emissions. Adapting to climate change in the water sector should place an increased emphasis on addressing the changing nature of droughts, especially across sensitive sectors. Using the latest climate models and emissions storylines, this research project assessed the projected impacts of climate change on flow conditions and droughts across 37 river catchments in Ireland.

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