June
Towards harmonised environmental information in Europe: have your say on standards that will affect everybody's life
30/06/2011
Arranging a cross border emergency rescue, preventing major environmental damage or comparing energy consumption of buildings in different countries will soon be faster and easier thanks to improved data sharing in the EU.
With INSPIRE – Infrastructure for Spatial Information in Europe – the European Union is creating a common standard to make environmental information quickly and easily accessible. This will translate into clear benefits for European citizens, ranging from improved emergency services to a healthier everyday environment. Common standards will help to cut costs and improve the basis for decision making at all levels. Views are now being sought on the suitability of the proposed standards.
Environment Commissioner Janez Potocnik said: "The INSPIRE standards will help us improve the environment. The more we have a common understanding in Europe of what we talk about, the better we can work together for the benefit of environment. I hope many people will tell us what they think about it."
Source: EU Europa.eu
Eco Innovation Observatory: Annual Report 2010 now Available for Download
29/06/2011
The 2010 annual report of the Eco Innovation Observatory 'The Eco-Innovation Challenge; Pathways to a resource efficient Europe', is now published and available for download.
This first annual report of the Observatory introduces the concept of eco-innovation, placing key findings on the state and potential of eco-innovation in the EU into the context of the resource-efficiency debate, in particular considering the flagship initiative “Resource-efficient Europe” of the Europe 2020 strategy.
Introducing the notion of the “eco-innovation challenge”, this report also opens a discussion on the potential benefits of eco-innovation for companies, sectors and entire economies.
Source: Eco-Innovation Challenge
Future Brief Publication: Plastic Waste: redesign and biodegradability
28/06/2011
The ‘Plastic Waste: redesign and biodegradability’ Future Brief has been published by Science for the Environment Policy. This publication looks at the latest developments in plastics redesign and developments in biodegradable plastics, as well as policy options to maximise the benefits of this material and minimise the risks associated with plastic waste.
Future Briefs are a new series of publications from Science for Environment Policy, which explore emerging areas of research with implications for environmental policy. They complement the weekly News Alert and all News Alert subscribers will automatically receive Future Briefs as they are published.
Office Development Powered By One of The World’s Largest Green Archimedes Screw Hydro Turbines
28/06/2011
A new office development at the Clock Tower building in Haverthwaite in the English Lake District is playing a part in history by becoming one of the first buildings to be powered by an environmentally and fish-friendly Archimedes screw, hydro power scheme that is one of the largest in the world.
The Clock Tower Offices, being created by developer Julius Barratt within a building that has a history stretching back to the 17th Century, are integrating history and heritage with a state-of-the-art green power generation source powered by surplus water from the River Leven via the old mill race that used to power the gunpowder works.
The River Leven hydro power station will be driven by two massive reverse Archimedes screws installed by Spaans Babcock – experts in this field of work and the name behind the world’s largest Archimedes screw hydro power station in Teesside. Each screw on the Leven has a diameter of three metres, a length of 19 metres and a weight of 40 tonnes. Together, they have a combined output of over 400 kW when operating at their full capacity of 4000 l/s each.
It is this capacity and the head produced by the falling river, measuring over 7.2 metres that make this green hydro power scheme so significant on the world stage. This hydro power station is set to become a best practice case study for others around the world, but will also be the power source behind the 5000 square feet of office space within the state-of-the-art Clock Tower Office development, which will house eight office units ranging in size from 200 to 1200 square feet.
Heat generated as a by-product by the hydro power turbines will be passed directly through to the offices for use, rather than being expelled and lost to the atmosphere. The heat from the turbines will pass through a heat exchanger and the resulting warm water will then pass through a heat pump and into underfloor heating maintained at a constant 35 degrees centigrade. At times when electricity is not being generated by the turbines, the office heating will be powered by four air source heat pumps, thus ensuring that all of the heating system can demonstrate green credentials.
Source: Environment & Energy Managemnent
Composting, Worm Feeding and Family Fun at the Botanic Gardens!
28/06/2011
The Stop Food Waste initiative of the Environmental Protection Agency is to officially open a new home composting demonstration site at the National Botanic Gardens in Glasnevin, Dublin on Saturday 2nd July at 1.30pm. The event promises fun for all the family as well as an education on how to reduce food waste and then how to compost the remaining food you can’t eat!
The Stop Food Waste initiative aims to raise awareness amoung the general public of the volume of organic waste ending up in Irish landfill sites. Research has shown that 37% of waste leaving Irish homes is organic waste, of this 30% is actually food and the remaining 7% is garden clippings. This means Irish homes are buying food and throwing a third of it in the bin! Irish homes can save themselves up to €1,000 annually by following the Stop Food Waste tips such as savvy shopping techniques, canny cooking recipes and much more including recipies from TV Chef presenter Donal Skehan.
Visit www.stopfoodwaste.ie for more information.
Source: Hill and Knowlton Ireland
IBEC: Green Supply Chain Workshop
27/06/2011
IBEC, with the support of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Greenbusiness.ie, presents a workshop to promote awareness of environmentally sustainable business practices which increases efficiency and reduces business costs. This workshop will be lead by experts on how to green the supply chain.
The workshop will take place at the IBEC Head Office, Confederation House, 84-86 Lower Baggot St., Dublin 2 on 13th July, from 8.45am-12.30pm. The event is free to attend, but advanced booking is essential to secure a place. Please contact Fintan O’Connell to reserve a place: 01-605 1693.
Summer Salads - Enjoy the Taste Without the Waste!
27/06/2011
With barbecues and salad days fast approaching Stop Food Waste is reminding the public that 50% of the lettuce we buy ends up in the bin. While a head of lettuce may seem cheap at around under €1 you can see how quickly this amount of waste can add up in euros over time.
The Stop Food Waste programme is funded under the EPA National Waste Prevention Programme (NWPP). Waste Prevention is the preferred waste management option in Ireland.
Odile Le Bolloch, spokesperson for Stop Food Waste at the EPA, advises lettuce lovers: “When you buy lettuce, make sure to take it out of its bag and wash it as soon as possible. Spin the lettuce in a salad spinner to dry off the washing water and store it in the fridge in the salad spinner. Leave a small amount of water in the bottom of the spinner and top up if needed. This keeps the lettuce fresh, it lasts longer and you have a supply of washed lettuce to use during the week.
“Another mistake people sometimes make is to cut the stalk off the lettuce with a metal knife. This can cause the lettuce to get those brown edges people hate so instead simply break off the leaves as you need them.”
Stop Food Waste also points out that growing your own lettuce and other greens not only gives you a greater appreciation for it, because you have grown and nurtured it yourself, but it also means that you take as much as you want as you need it. “You don’t need that much space to grow a few heads of lettuce, rocket or herbs – a well drained window box works great where space is limited,” says Odile Le Bolloch. “Start the window box indoors and once the first few sprouts start to show you can put it outside on a sunny sill. Make sure you keep it watered – though in Irish summers this is usually not a problem!”
Source: Stop Food Waste
Public Consultation: Reorganisation of Household Waste Collection
27/06/2011
Mr Phil Hogan T.D., Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, has published a discussion document to help inform public consultation on the Government’s commitment to reorganise household waste collection.
The Programme for Government states that the Government will introduce competitive tendering for local household waste collection services. It is envisaged that service providers will bid to provide waste collection services in a given area, for a given period of time and to a guaranteed level of service.
Altering the Structure of Household Waste Collection Markets - Discussion Document (pdf, 279kb)
Responses to the discussion document are invited, which should be provided to the undersigned not later than Friday 2 September 2011, which is the close of the consultation period. All responses will be published online. Responses may be sent by post or email.
By post:
Eoin Corrigan
Custom House
Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government
Dublin 1
By email: eoin_corrigan@environ.ie
Source: Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government
Get invovled in National Bike Week 2011: 18th-26th June
24/06/2011
Ireland’s annual National Bike Week is taking place next week, from 18th-26th June. Cycling is cheap, reliable, fast, keeps you feeling fit and healthy, and has huge environmental benefits. So,dust down your bike and beat the traffic for National Bike Week 2011!
Details of the week's events are available at www.bikeweek.ie. Some of the events include Bike Stunts in Eyre's Square shopping centre in Galway (June 19th), a National Cycle to School or Work Day (June 22nd), a Co-operation Ireland Maracycle (June 25th Dublin-Belfast & June 26th Belfast-Dublin), and more.
Find out more about biking in Ireland at Lights! Cycle! Action!
Science for Environment Policy: issue 245 available online
24/06/2011
Issue 245 of Science for Environment Policy is now available online. Articles include:
- Research finds link between road proximity and childhood leukaemia
- Reducing bycatch will not damage fishing industry
- More research needed into contaminated soil and water treatment
- The mega-heat wave of 2010 – implications for the future
- Biofuel crops compete with wildflowers for bees
- Will any wetlands survive future sea level rise?
Energia Open 10.2 MW Extension to Donegal Wind Farm
24/06/2011
Energia Renewables has opened a new €18 million, 10.2 megawatt (MW) extension to the Drumloughhill Wind Farm in Co. Donegal. It was officially opened by Mr Dinny McGinlet TD, Minister of State at the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht.
Tom Gillen, chief operating officer at Energia, says: “Energia is proud to be one of Ireland’s leading low-carbon-intensity energy suppliers, with over 300MW of operational wind farms, and a further 540MW in development. This is set to increase to over 840MW of Ireland’s renewable power, or around 25% of the Irish renewable market, by 2013.”
Chevron Training wins ‘Green Business of the Year Award’ at the Wexford Business Awards 2011
24/06/2011
Following on from winning the Wexford Business of the Year Award 2010, Chevron Training received their latest accolade, Green Business of Year, at the 2011 Wexford Business Awards.
This award, which was sponsored by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), acknowledges the Wexford business in the environmental and green sectors of the economy which demonstrate ongoing clear green credentials.
“Chevron Training is honoured to receive recognition for the significant contribution that we continue to make towards the promotion of renewable energy throughout Ireland” stated Mr. Karl Fitzpatrick, Sales and Marketing Director with Chevron Training.
Mr. Fitzpatrick added that “Our comprehensive suite of practical based renewable energy courses is indicative of Chevron Training’s commitment to raising awareness about the benefits of sustainable energy structures, technologies and practices”.
Chevron Training has provided renewable energy training to more than 20,000 learners over the past 4 years. These accredited training courses have been successful in providing learners with the necessary skills and knowledge to avail of the vast employment and business opportunities which exist within the Irish renewable energy sector, both from an installation and consultancy perspective.
Source: Irish Press Releases
Moynalty named Ireland's Best Kept Town
23/06/2011
The results of Ireland’s Best Kept Town competition were announced on 21st June 2011 by Mr. Fergus O’Dowd, T.D., Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government. The Minister announced Moynalty, Co. Meath as the overall winner of the competition for 2011 at an awards ceremony that was held in Farmleigh House, Phoenix Park, Dublin.
As well as winning the overall award, Moynalty also won the Best Kept Village category. Lismore, Co. Waterford won the Best Kept Small Town category, Cookstown, Co. Tyrone won the Best Kept Large Town Category and Coleraine, Co. Londonderry won the Best Kept Large Urban Centre category.
Ireland’s Best Kept Towns competition has been running since 1995. It is a joint initiative of the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government who run the TidyTowns competition in the South, and the Northern Ireland Amenity Council who run the Best Kept competition in the North.
Watch a video of Moyalty Pride of Place School Competition 2010 on the ENFO videos page.
Source: Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government
Renewable Wind Energy Deal Between Ireland and the UK
23/06/2011
The Irish Wind Energy Association (IWEA) has welcomed the signing of an historic deal between Ireland and the UK Government that will potentially pave the way for exploiting Ireland’s unique wind energy resources. Both Governments have agreed to co-operate on developing the major wind and marine resource in and around Ireland, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man.
IWEA chief executive Dr Michael Walsh says the deal may be seen in time as a milestone moment for Ireland in terms of maximizing the potential of the wind sector.
“It’s early days yet and we await the detail of what’s in the deal but it certainly is a major step in the right direction and potentially paves the way for what we believe could be a €1.6 billion annual export industry for Ireland and total new employment in the sector of 28,000 jobs,” he explains. “This deal, perhaps more than anything else that has gone before recognises the huge potential from wind energy on the island of Ireland given that it is a trading partner and not just ourselves that has recognised that the wind resource we have here is unique and largely underutilised. We have long since in the IWEA trumpeted the potential for exporting wind energy from Ireland and this deal will hopefully bring it to fruition, sooner rather than later.”
Energy Commissioner Oettinger launches European Smart Cities and Communities Initiative
23/06/2011
Brussels: Speaking to 500 representatives of cities, business, the financial sector and research institutions on 21st June, EU Commissioner for Energy Günther Oettinger launched the EU's new Smart Cities and Communities Initiative, the EU's programme for the energy efficient cities of tomorrow.
"The time is right for smart cities and communities: Cities and industry partners are eager to develop integrated sustainable solutions that offer clean, secure and affordable energy to citizens, reduce consumption and create new markets – in Europe and beyond. With the Smart Cities and Communities Initiative, the EU is kickstarting these new markets with an initial funding of EUR 80 million to support innovataive model projects in selected European cities." Commissioner Oettinger
explained at the launch.
He added that "Cities are key to the EU's objectives of 20% energy saving by 2020 and to developing a low carbon economy by 2050, because 70% of the EU's energy is consumed in cities. They have a huge potential for energy saving through smarter use of resources and intelligent technology integration."
In an FP7 call to be opened on 19 July this year, teams of cities and industry partners can apply for EU-funding in the fields of integrative management of urban energy flows that also include transport, water and waste solutions. Further calls under the initiative address buildings, and heating & cooling systems.
Next steps of the initiative
· FP7 Call Information Day including Smart Cities topics on 7 July 2011 in
Brussels.
· Call for proposals open from 19 July until 1 December 2011.
· SET Plan conference in Warsaw on 28-29 November 2011.
· Evaluation of call proposals: January/February 2011.
· Start of Projects: probably Summer 2012
Please find more information on the Conference website.
Source: European Commission
Lecture: Meeting the resource and environmental needs of 9 billion people
22/06/2011
The UCD Earth Sciences Institute presents a lecture by Professor Katherine Richardson, University of Copenhagen, on ‘Meeting the resource and environmental needs of 9 billion people’. The lecture will take place at the Urban Institute Ireland, UCD at 12.30 on Wednesday, June 29th 2011.
Professor Richardson chaired the Danish Climate Commission which was the basis for the Danish Government’s decision to become independent of fossil fuels. She is the lead-author of ‘Climate Change; Global Risk, Challenges, and Decisions’. A discussion will follow the lecture and a light lunch will be provided.
As places are limited, please register by email to maire.brophy@ucd.ie.
Sustainable Environment Research Consultation
22/06/2011
Under legislation, EPA is mandated to co-ordinate environmental research in Ireland. Research funded by the EPA under the Science Technology Research and Innovation for the Environment (STRIVE) programme is strongly focussed on providing support for developing new environmental policy and implementing current policies. This work is carried out under three pillar areas: Climate Change; Water; and Sustainable Environment. This consultation relates to the Sustainable Environment Pillar.
The thematic areas covered under this research pillar include:
- Environment & Human Health
- Waste & Resource Management
- Impacts on Biodiversity
- Soils and Land-use
- Socio-economic Considerations
It is the intention of the EPA to launch a research call in the area of ‘Sustainable Environment’ in late July. As part of the preparation for this call, EPA is conducting a consultation involving research performers, research users and research funders to seek to maximise delivery of effective, targeted research within the context of limited budgets.
At this time, EPA is seeking opinions on the proposed topic areas for the upcoming call for research proposals and for this purpose an online survey is being conducted. Information gathered through this consultation will be used as part of the preparation for research call - subject to EPA Board approval.
The consultation is available to access through this link http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/SWPPFJL and will close for submissions on July 5th 2011.
The accompanying document (in draft) describes the background and framework for research to support a sustainable environment including specifically identified knowledge gaps and will provide the basis for general development of EPA activity in this area up to 2013. During the course of 2011, EPA will be seeking views from stakeholders on this document with a view to further refining and developing the content.
The EPA looks forward to receiving your input to this process.
Source: EPA
ECO-UNESCO ECO-Explorers Summer Camps
21/06/2011
ECO-Explorers Kids Camps at The Greenhouse!
ECO-UNESCO launched Dublin city centre’s first environmental summer camp ‘ECO-Explorers’ in 2010. The camp was such a resounding hit with all the children who took part, that we are now offering camps during Easter, Summer and Halloween breaks. Using ECO-UNESCO’s environmental hub The Greenhouse as a base from which to explore nature in the heart of the city, children explore nature and the world around them through outdoor adventures, interactive games, hands-on activities and much more! Taking a city centre safari and treasure trail, building a bug hotel, starting a sunflower race and even launching an ECO-Rocket are some of the activities your children will enjoy while learning about their environment and nature and having lots of fun!
Sign Up now for Summer Camps!
Who? Open to all children aged 4 to 12
What? Children explore key environmental topics in fun, interactive and creative ways.
What’s more, they’ll get plenty of ideas to bring home with them!
When? July and August 2011 (themes change each week, discounts available for consecutive bookings): Week 1: July Mon 4th - Fri 8th Week 2: July Mon 11th - Fri 15th Week 3: July Mon 11th - Fri 15th Week 4: July Mon 25th - Fri 29th Week 5: August Tue 2nd - Fri 5th Week 6: August Mon 8th - Fri 12th
Where? The Greenhouse and wildlife hotspots throughout Dublin city centre
How much? €100. Early Bird Offer: €90 if you book before 31/5/11 Book your child's place now: Contact youth@ecounesco.ie or call +353 1 6625491
Dublin City of Science 2012: Deadline for Proposals Approaching
21/06/2011
There are now less than two weeks left to submit a proposal for the Dublin City of Science 2012 Public Engagement Programme. Be part of making 2012 a showcase for the best in Irish science and culture.
If you have an existing or pre-planned event, or even just an idea, please ensure that you submit your proposal through the website at http://www.dublinscience2012.ie/pep to be eligible for co-branding and/or potential funding opportunities.
Please note that all submissions must be made via the online form, and organisers will not be in a position to accept submissions that have not been processed through this channel. Failure to submit through the official submission process may mean that your event will not be considered for inclusion as an official Dublin City of Science 2012 event.
The deadline for submission of proposals is 30th June 2011.
Science for Environment Policy: issue 224 available online
21/06/2011
The latest issue, 224, of Science for Environment Policy is now available online. Articles include:
- Efficient dairy farming: good for the environment and profits
- Recent evidence on climate change risks for African agriculture
- Which benthic ecosystem assessment tool is best?
- Towards responsible nanotectiles and coatings: a new risk approach
- How predictable is the biological response to chemical toxicity?
- Site-specific data needed to assess contaminated sediment
Rose Week at Altamont Gardens: 20th-24th June
20/06/2011
The Altamont Gardens in Tullow, Co. Carlow, is hosting a Rose Week from 20th – 24th June. This is a great opportunity to view the superb collection of roses at the gardens, with guided tours beginning at 2pm each day.
For more information on the Altamont Gardens, please see the Carlow County Focus section. For details on Rose Week, please email altamontgardens@opw.ie or phone 059-9159444.
Irish Companies and Researchers Urged to Access €3.2bn European Public-Private Partnership Funding Initiative
20/06/2011
Enterprise Ireland has announced that the latest round of funding from the €3.2bn industry-focused initiatives under the EU’s €50bn Framework Programme 7 (FP7) budget will be available to Irish businesses from mid-July. These Public Private Partnership initiatives are aimed at those sectors most affected by the economic downturn, namely manufacturing, construction and automotive.
FP7 funding is a European research and innovation fund designed to incentivise businesses and scientists to join forces to collaborate on developing technologies and products of the future.
In the first four years of the framework Programme, Ireland has secured €270m in funding, with €67m of this going to companies.
Enterprise Ireland is urging companies and researchers to collaborate and apply to the fund. The three areas are:
- Factories of the Future: €1.2bn has been committed for the development and innovation of new enabling technologies for the EU manufacturing sector.
- Energy-efficient Buildings: €1bn has been committed for methods and technologies to slash energy consumption and CO2 emissions of new and renovated buildings.
- Green Cars: €1bn has been committed to developing technologies for more environmentally friendly vehicles.
For further information, please see http://www.fp7ireland.com/Default.aspx.
Source: Enterprise Ireland
€55 Million to be Spent on Sustainable Travel Projects this Year – Minister Kelly
20/06/2011
Minister for Public Transport and Commuter Policy, Alan Kelly, has confirmed that €55 million will be spent on sustainable travel projects this year.
The Minister confirmed the figure as he announced the 34 projects being carried out in our regional cities under the jobs initiative.
An additional €5 million will be spent on labour intensive sustainable travel projects such as road improvement works, pedestrian crossings cycle routes and more sophisticated traffic control systems. These projects will be commenced in Cork, Galway, Limerick and Waterford this year.
Included among the 34 projects are:
- €400,000 for new phase of Cork Cycle Network between Douglas and City Centre
- €250,000 for a city-wide intelligent traffic control system within City Hall in Galway including traffic signs, CCTV cameras and variable message signs
- €600,000 for advanced facilities for transport users and traffic calming measures for South Quays Green Route in Waterford
- €150,000 for improvement of existing cycle facilities in Limerick
Download PDF: Jobs Initiative Schemes in the Regional Cities
SEAI Better Energy Workplaces 2011 for Business and Public Sector
17/06/2011
Under the Government’s Jobs Initiative, ‘Better Energy' – The National Upgrade Programme was launched by the Minister for Communications, Energy & Natural Resources on 11th May 2011. This new programme aims to deliver a major increase in the pace, scale and depth of sustainable energy investments in upgrading existing buildings and facilities.
Within this programme, financial support is available through the Better Energy Workplaces scheme, for implementing a wide range of qualifying sustainable energy upgrading projects in the public, commercial, industrial and community sectors.
Such projects may comprise individual or packaged measures aimed at achieving lasting savings in energy usage for thermal, electrical or transport purposes. The main focus of the support will be on achieving delivery in 2011 of sustainable energy (mainly energy efficiency) investment projects of differing sizes and complexities.
Full details of the objectives, terms and conditions of the scheme are available in the downloadable Application Guide.
Applications to the scheme must be submitted on the downloadable Application Form.
Better Energy Workshops Application Guide (pdf)
Better Energy Workshops Application Form (doc)
Source: SEAI
SEAI Seminar: Ireland's engagement with the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Partnership (REEEP): Stimulating the uptake of low carbon technologies in developing countries
17/06/2011
The seminar ‘Ireland’s engagement with the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Partnership (REEEP): Stimulating the uptake of low carbon technologies in developing countries’ will be presented by Professor J Owen Lewis at 2pm at SEAI, Wilton Park House, Dublin 2, on 5th July 2011.
Dr Marianne Moscoso-Osterkorn, Director General of REEEP, together with Binu Parthan from REEEP and Peter Storey from PPL International will also present an overview of:
- REEP’s activities in developing and emerging markets
- An energy conservation project in Malawi, the focus of the Irish Government’s Offsetting Scheme
- The establishment of a private financing advisory network in sub-Saharan Africa
This event will be of particular interest to those working in sustainable energy financing, climate change or carbon market. Attendance is free of charge, but booking is essential as numbers are limited. Please contact Clara Stack clara.stack@seai.ie by 24th June to register.
2011 Sustainable Energy Awards – closing date extended to 30th June
16/06/2011
The deadline for the 2011 Sustainable Energy Awards has been extended until 30th June, so make sure to get your entries in soon!
The ‘Expression of Interest Form’ must be completed in order to receive an entry form. This is available on the SEAI website. Judging panels will then draw up a shortlist of finalists in each category. Entrants wil be notified of the status of their entry by the end of September 2011, and the winners will be announced at a gala event in Dublin on 24th November 2011.
The aim of these awards is to recognise the achievements of individuals, groups and organisations for best practice in energy management, and to encourage others to follow their example.
Sustainable Energy Awards 2011 brochure (pdf)
RIAI Seminar: How to Create a More Energy Efficient Home
16/06/2011
The RIAI with William Scott, architect and sustainable design & building expert, are holding this seminar for home owners looking to improve the energy efficiency of their homes. The seminar is for those planning to renovate or upgrade their homes and those planning to build a new home and wanting to understand the vast range of information out there.
- What are the best solutions for heating, insulation and appliance choices for your home?
- What are the regulations that must be considered?
- Most importantly, what problems can be avoided by making the right choices?
The seminar will give you the information necessary to make the right choices for your home and your lifestyle. This evening seminar and question & answer session will provide people with all the necessary tips to make informed decisions. Each attendee will receive a pack of information with useful hints, tips and sources of additional information.
The cost of the seminar is €35. For more details, please contact Clare Finglas 01 669 1462 / cfinglas@riai.ie.
Source: Cultivate
Repak Seeks Views of Members on Government Proposed Packaging Tax
15/06/2011
Repak, the National Packaging Recycling Body, is seeking views and opinions from its members on the government’s proposed introduction of a broadly based packaging tax, which has been widely circulated to all stakeholders by the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government.
The packaging tax was announced as part of the Government’s Programme for National Recovery 2011-2016 and included a statement that it would “drive a waste reduction programme through an extension of Producer Responsibility Initiative and a levy on packaging after appropriate consultation with industry.”
The Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government public consultation on the proposed Tax/levy on packaging has invited responses in particular on:
- * Stakeholders’ overall views on Packaging Levy.
- How a Packaging Levy might be operated.
- International experiences of similar levies
- How a Packaging Levy should be structured in order to contribute towards a reduction in packaging.
The deadline for submission to the department is Friday, 5th August 2011 and Repak is encouraging its members to participate in Repak’s submission by offering views or comments through contacting the Repak Membership Services Manager, Declan Martin (Tel 01 4670190 or email declan.martin@repak.ie ).
Source: Environment & Energy Management
The Eco-Innovation Challenge; Pathways to a resource efficient Europe'
15/06/2011
The 2010 annual report of the Eco Innovation Observatory 'The Eco-Innovation Challenge; Pathways to a resource efficient Europe', is now published and available for download.
This first annual report of the Observatory introduces the concept of eco-innovation, placing key findings on the state and potential of eco-innovation in the EU into the context of the resource-efficiency debate, in particular considering the flagship initiative “Resource-efficient Europe” of the Europe 2020 strategy.
Introducing the notion of the “eco-innovation challenge”, this report also opens a discussion on the potential benefits of eco-innovation for companies, sectors and entire economies.
Source: Eco Innovation Observatory
Nines Photovoltaics Awarded €1.2 Million European Grant
15/06/2011
Dublin-based Nines Photovoltaics has been awarded €1.2 million in funding through a highly competitive European Framework Programme 7 (FP7), to further develop its innovative sustainable solar cell manufacturing technology.
Nines Photovoltaics has developed a potentially highly disruptive methodology for the manufacturing process of photovoltaic (PV) solar cells. This new technology will reduce the cost of production and the overall environmental impact while increasing the speed and degree of process control required for the production of Photovoltaic (PV) solar cells.
“From a cost and environmental perspective the current solar cell production process is unsustainable and limits the ability for Solar PV to compete with traditional energy sources,” explains Edward Duffy, chief executive of Nines Photovoltaics. “In 2010 there were roughly 10 billion solar cells produced worldwide, consuming over 25 billion litres of water and other chemicals. The heavy environmental footprint of solar cell manufacturing is strangling the ability of the PV sector to grow and meet the growing power demand. There is enough solar energy available to power the whole planet 100 times over but we must learn to harvest this energy in a sustainable and cost effective way.”
The technology that Nines has developed enables solar cell producers to dramatically lower their water consumption and enables investment in further scaling of their manufacturing facilities. Nines Photovoltaics is the first company to offer a process solution which uses a fully dry process using only Zero Global Warming Potential chemicals.
Source: Environment & Energy Management
Convergence Festvial 2011: join in the sustainable living festival this June
14/06/2011
The Convergence Festival will take place from 16th-26th June. This sustainable living festival was first held in 2000 to celebrate community resilience and social inclusion while promoting the importance of a sustainable economy, society and built envrionment. This year's festival promises plenty of free events and films at venues in Dublin, Cork, Cloughjordan, Kilkenny and Sligo. For full details of programmes at each location, please see the event website.
Teagasc Bioenergy Crop Open Day - Growing Opportunities for Irish Farmers
14/06/2011
This free event is centred on Teagasc bioenergy research and will focus on the technical aspects of growing and utilising bioenergy resources, particularly Miscanthus and SRC Willow. The event will also cover the Bioenergy Scheme which provides grants towards the cost of planting and establishment and Anaerobic Digestion biogas together with viewing the boilers combusting wood chip, grain and miscanthus.
Come and see the crops growing, handle the wood chip and pellets and see the crop moving from the field to the furnace.
This half day event will run from 9am - 2pm and will be followed by the Tillage Crops Open Day.
For more information, please visit the Teagasc website.
Source: Teagasc
ECO-Explorers summer camp in Dublin City Centre
13/06/2011
ECO-UNESCO have launched this year’s Dublin city centre environmental summer camp ‘ECO-Explorers’ to take place in July and August 2011. The summer camp will explore important environmental topics in fun, creative and informative ways and is open to all children between the ages of 5 and 12 years.
The ‘ECO-Explorers’ camp in July will take place weekly, while the August camp will take place from 2nd-5th and 8th-12th. For further information, please contact ECO-UNESCO’s Environmental Youth Officer at 01-662 5491 or email youth@ecounesco.ie.
Science for Environment Policy; issue 243 available online
13/06/2011
Issue 243 of Science for Environment Policy is now available online. Articles include:
- Carbon labels most effective when combines with low prices
- Poor energy use is chemical industry’s top environmental issue
- Success for potatoes under EU law
- Combined satellite data shed light on Indonesian deforestation
- Monitoring marine waters for WFD compliance
- Strategies for encouraging CSR in SMEs
Minister Phil Hogan T.D. Announces Funding Of €10m Over 30 Months For The Community And Voluntary Sector
10/06/2011
Phil Hogan T.D., Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government has announced funding of €10m over the coming 30 months for 63 national community and voluntary organisations. The funding is under the Scheme to Support National Organisations in the Community and Voluntary Sector and will contribute an annual amount of approx. €4m to the Sector, subject to the annual budgetary process.
Funding to national community and voluntary organisations under this Scheme is to cover core costs such as staff, administration and ongoing running expenses. The new scheme will be for up to two and a half years and will operate to 31 December 2013, subject to an agreed work plan and periodic review.
Source: Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government
New law for low sulphur standard for coal will reduce air pollution
10/06/2011
Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Phil Hogan TD yesterday announced the introduction of a new, legally binding, low sulphur standard for coal used in the residential market.
Minister Hogan said; ‘All bituminous coal placed on the market for residential use must now have a sulphur content of no more than 0.7%. Approximately half a million tonnes of bituminous coal was imported last year for use by Irish households resulting in the release of over 4 thousand tonnes of sulphur dioxide into the atmosphere. Limiting the sulphur content of bituminous coal will help to protect human health and the environment by reducing air pollution, particularly in the winter months.’
Source: Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government
New concept could lead to energy-efficient water supply technology
09/06/2011
The water industry, their consumers and the environment could benefit from a new research project in Ireland and Wales to assist the industry to cut its energy bills. Researchers from Trinity College Dublin and Bangor University have identified a way of using water pressure within the water storage system to generate renewable energy. That energy can then be used by the water industry and sold to the grid.
The researchers have been awarded €560,000 in EU funding to investigate and develop small hydropower turbines that could be introduced within existing water treatment systems. These could reduce the amount of energy used in the water supply process. This will enable the water industry to reduce its CO2 emission and to reduce the operating costs of supplying treated water.
Source: Bangor University
€15 million water treatment projects for Galway
09/06/2011
Mr. Phil Hogan, T.D. Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, yesterday (8 June, 2011) announced that, he has given Galway County Council approval to invite tenders for the construction of a new Water Treatment Plant, the construction of two new reservoirs at Rosmuc and Glenmore, Carraroe, together with the network and pipe-laying contract for the Costelloe Regional Water Supply Scheme.
Source: Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government
Road haulage: EP introduces "polluter pays" principle
08/06/2011
Road haulage tax rules will now make it possible for EU Member States to charge hauliers for air and noise pollution costs, in addition to motorway tolls. A directive approved by the European Parliament yesterday will ensure that revenue from these charges is used to improve the performance of transport systems and cut pollution.
On average, 3 to 4 cents per vehicle/km may be added to charges for using transport infrastructure to cover the external costs of road haulage, starting with air and noise pollution. The directive will cover not only trans-European transport (TEN-T) networks, but all motorways, and will apply to vehicles of over 3.5 tonnes.
In exchange, EU Member States firmly commit themselves to invest 15% of overall revenue in TEN-T networks. The remaining amounts should be used to reduce damage to the environment and develop all transport systems sustainably.
Source: European Parliament
More efforts required to reduce ozone pollution in Europe
07/06/2011
Ground-level ozone is one of the most harmful air pollutants in Europe today. A new report by the European Environment Agency (EEA) shows that despite efforts to reduce ozone pollution, in 2010 levels continued to exceed the long-term objective established in EU legislation to protect human health. EU Member States will also face difficulties in meeting the target value, applicable as of 2010.
The new EEA report Air pollution by ozone across Europe during summer 2010 shows that the long-term objective to protect human health (maximum daily eight-hour mean concentration of 120 µg/m3) was exceeded in all EU Member States and in most of the other reporting European countries at least once during summer 2010. As in previous years, the most widespread concentrations occurred in the Mediterranean area. However, areas of western and central Europe experienced higher ozone concentrations than in 2009.
Source: European Environment Agency
Hogan approves the aquisition of 17 front line fire appliances
07/06/2011
Mr. Phil Hogan T.D. Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government announced on Friday that he has approved the acquisition of 17 front line fire appliances to improve the response capacity of local authority fire services.
Minister Hogan said: “I appreciate the significant contribution which fire services continue to make every day in safeguarding our communities. This investment of up to €5 million in the front line fire appliance fleet underlines the Government’s commitment to maintaining the national fleet.
Source: Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government
EPA Twitter Competition marks World Environment Day 2011
03/06/2011
World Environment Day 2011 takes place this Sunday 5th June 2011. To mark this day, the EPA is running a competition on Twitter, where followers can win a break at one of the many Green Hotels in Ireland.
To be in with a chance to win a Green Hotel break worth €250, we are asking members of the public to simply follow the EPA on Twitter and, using the hashtag #WEDIreland, send a tweet advising on a positive action they can take on World Environment Day to help protect the environment.
The winner will be picked at random from the tweets received throughout the competition period. Valid tweets must include:
- the hashtag #WEDIreland and
- an environmentally friendly idea or message
The competition runs until 12noon on Wednesday 8th June, and the winner will be announced on Twitter by 3pm that afternoon. Check out the information on the home page of the EPA website for full details and terms & conditions.
The theme for World Environment Day 2011 is Forests: Nature At Your Service. Check out the United Nations Environment Programme website.
Source: EPA
Global Wind Day: 15th June
03/06/2011
Global Wind Day is a worldwide event that occurs annually on 15 June. It is a day for discovering wind, its power and the possibilities it holds to change our world.
It is also a day for discovery of the work that has already begun by pioneers around the world. In more than 75 countries around the world, wind farms are in operation, generating energy from a clean and renewable source.
Thousands of individuals are involved in the production of energy from the wind, but for many people, wind energy is a mystery. Global Wind Day is the day when you can visit wind farms, meet experts, attend events and find out everything you want to know about wind energy.
The European Wind Energy Association (EWEA) and the Global Wind Energy Council - GWEC - coordinate the Global Wind Day through a network of partners. The day started as a European one in 2007 and went Global in 2009. On 15 June, thousands of public events are organised all over the world.
Clean environment: wind energy emits no greenhouse gases or pollution. Green growth: wind energy is a fast expanding sector in many regions around the world.
Green jobs: wind energy creates thousands of local sustainable jobs.
Energy independence: wind energy reduces dependence on fuel imports. No fuel: wind energy produces electricity without fuel using only a natural resource. No water: other energy generating technologies need water for cooling, wind energy does not.
Stable costs: oil and gas prices go up.
Details of the organised events for Global Wind Day are available on the IWEA website.
Source: Envirocentre
Science for Environment Policy; issue 242 available online
03/06/2011
Issue 242 of Science for Environment Policy is now available online. Articles include:
- CSR for water: progress towards sustainability
- Sustainability programmes: eclectic toolboxes or clear roadmaps?
- A new tool to help predict species invasiveness
- Cities tackling climate change: a new strategy for mitigation
- Effective ICZM strategy identified for harbour dredging
- Flame retardants found in groundwater
Scotland applies new system of measuring recycling performance
02/06/2011
A Scottish Government agency, Zero Waste Scotland, has devised a new system for prioritising materials collected for recycling. By applying a ‘carbon metric’ to these materials, the environmental benefits of recycling them over sending them to landfill can be calculated. In this way, the greatest net greenhouse gas emission savings can be made while also reducing use of primary resources.
Details of this new system are available on the Zero Waste Scotland website.
Open days: view crop trials using compost and digestate
02/06/2011
Open days to view crop trials using compost and digestate have been announced for 7th and 9th June. Four farms in Limerick, Westmeath and Tipperary are hosting crop trials, growing spring barley, winter wheat and grass silage, to test the impacts of using high quality compost and digestate against the usual use of slurry and artificial fertiliser. The aim of these crop trials is to raise awareness of the environmental and financial benefits of using compost and digestate and to encourage the market for these natural fertilisers.
Full details of the events are available on the rx3 website.
Water metering programme in 2012
02/06/2011
Minister for the Environment Phil Hogan has said the roll out of water meters to homes across Ireland will begin early next year. Speaking at the Inaugural National Water Metering Summit, which took place at Croke Park on 31 May, Mr. Hogan said consultants are being appointed to examine how the new national water company will operate.
They will report back by October and the establishment of the company will follow, with the metering programme getting under way early in 2012.
The Minister said, “It was not merely a taxing measure, but a system that would protect a finite resource.” The Minister added that metering meant that people would only pay for what they use. He said the plan would also provide employment opportunities and make Ireland more attractive to foreign investors as water supply would be guaranteed.
Source: Environment & Energy Management
EEA report decrease in greenhouse gas emissions for 2009
01/06/2011
The European Environment Agency (EEA) has published the most recent results for greenhouse gas emissions, showing a decrease of 7.1% in the EU-27 and 6.9% in the EU-15. This sharp fall in emissions has been attributed largely to the economic downturn of 2009 but also to the sustained growth in the renewable energy sector, particularly biomass, wind and solar.
Professor Jacqueline McGlade, Executive Director of the European Environment Agency, said: "Although much of the decrease in greenhouse gases is due to the recession, we are starting to see the results of many EU and Member States’ proactive policies in renewable energy. We hope that policy makers continue to build on this success to cut emissions further."
Early indications for 2010 point to a slight increase in greenhouse gas emissions over the course of the year. Details of the Greenhouse Gas Inventory are available on the EEA website.
First ESB ecar fast-charge point opened in Co. Monaghan
01/06/2011
ESB ecars and Topaz have opened Ireland’s first electrical vehicle (EV) fast-charge point at a Topaz station in Coolshannagh, Co. Monaghan. The announcement for the rollout of fast-charge points in service stations across the country was made in April. These will be located in Monaghan, Cashel, Cork, Athlone, Cavan, Navan and Monasterevin.
Speaking at the launch in Monaghan, Paul Mulvaney of ESB ecars said “The fast-charge point network supports journeys between urban centres and fast charging at service stations fits with the motorist’s existing driving patterns.”
In order to promote ecars in Ireland, ESB ecars has set out a number of targets to be achieved by the end of 2011:
· 30 fast-charge points installed
· 1500 public charge points available across Ireland
· 2000 home charge units installed (dependent on ecar sales)
For details of the location of the 1500 public charge points that will be available by the end of 2011, please see the ESB ecars map.
Previous - May
Upload to this page
Add your photos, text, videos, etc. to this page.
