Ethical and Stakeholder pressures

If we do not take action to prevent climate change, Ireland, along with the rest of the world, may experience further climatic changes in the form of higher temperatures, extreme and unpredictable weather events, and higher sea levels. Even if we were to stop emitting greenhouse gases now, the effects of our recent emissions would still be felt over the next 30-40 years. The public sector has an ethical responsibility to act for the collective good of society and also to demonstrate environmental responsibility along with leadership and best practice.

Businesses and members of the public often look to the public sector to take action before they commit to change themselves. Action in the public sector will demonstrate commitment to climate change, thereby giving credence to government climate change policy and goals. It will also help increase confidence in the public sector and will lead to willingness to take individual action and change behaviour in the wider population.