FOREWORD/EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

As we complete the third year of our Climate Change Action Plan (CCAP) 2019-2024 almost all of the original 130 actions are either completed or are underway, as detailed in this report. The CCAP will be revised over the coming year to update the four Key Targets and review the actions to ensure that our plan is suitably ambitious and fully aligned with updated National and European legislation. The CCAP review will also include updated and expanded risk assessments and an implementation plan for the Decarbonising Zones (DZs) in Tallaght and Clondalkin. The objective of these DZs is to look at what is possible for decarbonisation and climate action at local and community levels and how to deliver outcomes capable of supporting and realising national climate ambition. In 2022, SDCC achieved an energy efficiency improvement of 39.5% over its baseline. Improvements in public lighting and energy efficiency upgrades in our offices and buildings have helped us to reach this point. The Tallaght District Heating Scheme will be commissioned towards the end of 2022 and will further reduce CO2 emissions by 1,500 tonnes in its first phase.

Our 2030 targets for energy efficiency and greenhouse gas reductions are within view but we face an uphill challenge to continue the momentum for beyond 2030, and to work towards achieving a zero-carbon society by 2050.

In the context of global challenges such as the ongoing energy crisis and climate related disasters, the four key targets of our Climate Change Action Plans are more relevant than ever. Higher energy costs will add impetus to our drive to improve our energy efficiency, reduce energy waste and cut greenhouse gas emissions. Building resilience into our systems to protect against future climate change related events will ensure confidence and reliability of our services; and continuing to engage with our citizens and inform them on climate change will educate and empower our communities to take action at a local level.

We will continue work with and support our partners, stakeholders, Elected Representatives and citizens to ensure that all sectors of our community are united and focussed on meeting our obligations to future generations.

Teresa Walsh Director of Environment, Water and Climate Change