On Friday, June 27, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, E3 hosted a compelling online panel discussion titled “Achieving Ireland’s Climate Action Ambitions.” This event, part of E3’s "Balanced Solutions for a Better World" lunchtime series, delved into how Ireland can meet its crucial climate goals and forge a truly sustainable future.

The discussion was chaired by Professor Karen Wiltshire, CRH Chair of Climate Science at Trinity College Dublin. Professor Wiltshire, reflecting on her year back in Ireland, expressed her delight at hosting a conversation so close to her heart. She highlighted Ireland's unique standing: a resilient nation with an engaged and understanding population when it comes to climate issues. Yet, a collective feeling of helplessness persists regarding concrete actions. This, Professor Wiltshire noted, ranges from a sense of overwhelming angst to the expectation that politicians should shoulder the burden. Interestingly, despite excellent studies and data, the question remains: why the lack of action?

Unpacking the Challenges and Opportunities

The panel featured a distinguished line-up of experts, offering diverse perspectives on the climate arena:

  • Professor Brian Norton, Head of Energy Research at the Tyndall National Institute, shared his extensive international expertise in energy policy. He pinpointed a core issue: the inherent tension between achieving sustainability, affordability, and security of supply. Political leanings, he argued, often prioritise one over the others, leading to an incoherent approach. For instance, while renewable energy is vital for sustainability, it necessitates energy storage or interconnection, each with its own security and affordability implications. Professor Norton emphasised the need for coherent choices, pushing for energy efficiency in a circular economy, transitioning from fossil fuels, and improving cybersecurity for energy systems. He also stressed the importance of empowering communities and individuals.

  • Rose Dunne, Teaching Fellow at the School of Natural Science, Trinity College Dublin, brought a vital focus on education and positive communication. She acknowledged the “doom and gloom” often associated with climate science, which can lead to paralysis. However, she underscored the importance of positivity, highlighting fantastic initiatives already underway in Ireland. Despite the country currently being off track to meet its 2030 emissions reduction targets (and facing a potential €26 billion fine from the EU), radical systemic change, collaboration, and innovation between government, business, finance, and society are within reach. Rose stressed that education plays a powerful role in shifting mindsets and driving behavioural change, ensuring we operate within planetary boundaries.

  • Karen Ciesielski, CEO of the Irish Environmental Network, offered insights into the power of organised action. The Irish Environmental Network, established in 2001, is a unique initiative designed to build capacity, support, and secure funding for national environmental NGOs in Ireland. With 41 member organisations covering everything from habitat conservation to marine life, the network has a profound impact on both public awareness and the natural environment. Through its advocacy arm, the environmental pillar, they engage with government and public bodies at local, regional, national, and even EU levels. Karen described her role as the “best job in Ireland,” driven by a love for communities in action and a fundamental belief that seeking healthy landscapes, clean air, and clean water is not radical, but essential for a thriving future.

Technology, Tipping Points, and Ireland's Unique Position

The conversation then shifted to the role of technology and the potential for Ireland to leapfrog older systems. Professor Wiltshire shared her personal experience of building an energy-zero house, where conventional builders quoted exorbitant costs, while "Eco Builders" delivered it affordably because they believed in the approach. This, she argued, highlights how we're often stuck in systems based on the past.

Professor Norton agreed that the issue isn't a lack of technology but rather market structures, incumbent industries, and regulatory hurdles. He cited examples from the Netherlands, Denmark, Germany, and Sweden where a strong developmental push has made sustainable solutions the norm. He stressed the importance of individual action and demand to drive systemic and regulatory change. The story of Austria's widespread adoption of solar thermal, driven by a cultural sense of individual responsibility for energy needs, served as a powerful example.

Professor Wiltshire then posed a compelling question: Does Ireland, as a “late adopter,” have a unique advantage to bypass outdated technologies and directly embrace innovative solutions, much like its leap in telecommunications? Professor Norton affirmed the validity of this idea. Being a late adopter offers the benefit of more developed, reliable, and lower-cost technologies. However, he cautioned against over-reliance on external supply chains, which could lead to profiteering or security vulnerabilities. He emphasised the importance of localising parts of these systems to create employment and resilience.

The event, featuring a 50-minute discussion followed by a 10-minute Q&A session, provided a valuable opportunity for attendees to engage directly with key experts on Ireland's climate action strategies. The discussion clearly highlighted that while challenges remain, Ireland possesses significant opportunities to drive its climate action ambitions forward. With an engaged populace, dedicated educators, and powerful networks, the path to a sustainable future is within reach, requiring courage, collaboration, and a willingness to embrace new approaches.