The Government must target environmental programmes in rural areas if it wants to avoid an €8.2 billion fine in 2030, a climate activist has warned.

Chair of the Climate Change Advisory Council Marie Donnelly has warned Ireland faces fines of “at least” €8.2 billion if it fails to meet its emissions reduction and renewable energy targets by 2030. 

Friends of the Earth Chief Executive Oisin Coughlan told Newstalk Breakfast Ireland has made “some progress” - but not enough. 

“Emissions came down 7% last year,” he said. “But it wasn’t enough of a trend yet. 

“We’re not on track to meet our national target in Irish law and the ones we agreed with European partners. 

“We need to redouble our efforts - we've made a start, but it’s just a start.” 

Mr Coughlan said Ireland’s environmental investments not only need to be higher but more ambitious and targeted. 

“We need to look at the things we can organise collectively to get more bang for our back and do more together,” he said. 

A man installing rooftop solar panels, 20-9-16. Image: Radharc Images / Alamy

“For example, county councils are in charge of social housing, so the Government is only aiming for somewhere between a third and 40% of social housing for retrofitting. 

“The Climate Change Advisory Council has said let’s make that 70%.” 

Mr Coughlan also suggested more “area-based” targets and programmes to reduce emissions where they remain highest. 

“Actually, go in and offer an area-based scheme to a housing estate that has a mix of social housing and private housing,” he said. 

“Look for ways to get a bigger bang for your buck.” 

Rural targets

Subsidies should also be targeted to rural areas, such as electric vehicle subsidies. 

“The subsidies should be targeted for those in rural areas who have less access to public transport,” he said. 

“Too many people in middle-class Dublin are hoovering up the subsidies for electric cars and heat pumps.” 

He said you reduce emissions in the long term by “doing what makes sense”, such as reducing car use in cities. 

“Having congestion charges in Dublin on the canal where there is better access to public transport,” he suggested. 

Congestion charges are fees for cars and other vehicles driving in certain areas at specific times. 

The London congestion charge, for example, charges cars driving within Central London between 7am and 6pm from Monday to Friday. 

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