Ireland has an opportunity to lead on fossil fuel reduction – Farrell

Ireland has an opportunity to lead within the international community with regard to reducing fossil fuel consumption, according to Fine Gael Climate Action Spokesperson, Alan Farrell.

Deputy Farrell said, “A report by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), published this week, has provided yet another stark warning to the world that current efforts to limit global temperature increases to 1.5 degrees Celsius will not be met, due to world Governments’ plans to extract and invest in fossil fuels.

“The report by the UNEP highlights several actions that Ireland has taken while Fine Gael has been in Government as examples for other nations in the world. This includes legislation to end new licenses for oil and gas exploration; the 2017 ban on onshore hydraulic fracturing; the 2018 Fossil Fuel Divestment Act; and the establishment of the National Just Transition Fund.”

Deputy Farrell continued, “We have a deep connection and respect for nature and the environment in Ireland and we have taken measures to protect our natural world. We will continue to do this in the years ahead which will require increasing our clean and renewable energy sector, growing the green economy and lowering costs for consumers.

“The UNEP production gap report highlights that countries have directed over $300 billion in new funds towards fossil fuel activities since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic — more than they have towards clean energy.

“It also highlights that world Governments’ production plans and projections would lead to about 240% more coal, 57% more oil, and 71% more gas in 2030 than would be consistent with limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

Deputy Farrell added, “We, as a global society, must be aware that we will not be able to continue rampant production and development of fossil fuels and provide a safe environment for our children and grandchildren. While we still have work to do in this field in Ireland, I believe that the vast majority of the Oireachtas and Irish people are aware of this reality.

“We have an opportunity to show the world that this can be done and that measures taken today will provide a better tomorrow for all the world’s people.”