Ireland falls short on global climate index

Experts criticise data centre expansion and LNG plans

Friends of the Earth Ireland has warned that the Government is veering off course on meeting legally binding climate obligations, following the publication of the latest global Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI), which shows Ireland dropping four places[1]. The downgrade reflects growing concerns about Government decisions that, according to independent experts, risk locking Ireland into higher fossil fuel use and rising emissions.

The CCPI flags particular alarm over the Government’s approach to new LNG infrastructure. Experts state that “the gas infrastructure situation is extremely problematic” and warn that the Government risks “locking in long-term fossil fuel use” by advancing a state-led LNG terminal while leaving room for a commercial project.

The report also raises concerns about data centre expansion. Experts caution that “connecting all proposed data centres to the grid would prevent Ireland from meeting its targeted 51% emissions reduction by 2030” and that demand from these centres is “outpacing the development of new renewable energy sources and pushing up electricity costs.”

Commenting, Seán McLoughlin, Climate Policy Campaigner at Friends of the Earth has said:

“This fall in global performance is another clear warning that Government decisions are dragging Ireland backwards on climate action. When a respected international assessment flags Ireland’s LNG proposals and data centre growth as major climate risks, it reinforces what Irish experts and communities have been saying for years: these decisions are pushing us in the wrong direction. If the Government continues to delay climate action, Ireland risks significant financial penalties from the EU, not to mention locking ourselves into costly and unnecessary fossil fuel infrastructure.”

“People across Ireland and Europe are already feeling the consequences of climate inaction - from severe heatwaves to destructive storms and flooding. The Government now needs to prioritise measures that cut pollution and improve daily life: accelerating retrofits in vulnerable communities, imposing a moratorium on energy-hungry data centres, and ruling out new fossil fuel projects like LNG.”

“What we need now is leadership that stands firm against vested interests and delivers the faster, fairer climate action that people in Ireland overwhelmingly support. We simply cannot afford another year of hesitation. The decisions made now will shape whether we secure cleaner air, warmer homes, and a safer future for everyone. It's for this very reason, the need for our elected representatives to act urgently on climate, that a lobby day is being organised between politicians and constituents on December 3rd in Buswells Hotel.”

ENDS

Notes

1.  Information on Ireland’s ranking in this year’s Climate Change Performance Index can be found here: https://ccpi.org/country/irl/