Laois vows to tackle climate change with new charter
The Climate Action Charter has been formally signed by Laois County Council
Laois County Council has formally signed the updated Climate Action Charter, reaffirming its commitment to addressing climate change and advancing sustainability at a local level.
The Charter, which is aimed at local authorities and the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment, was signed at County Hall by Cathaoirleach Barry Walsh and Laois County Council Chief Executive Michael Rainey. They were joined by Director of Services Pat Delaney, Climate Action Co-ordinator Suzanne Dempsey, and Climate Action Officer Anne Lennon.
This revised Charter demonstrates a strengthened and unified approach between local and central government to tackle the challenges of climate change.
The Charter was originally introduced in 2019 to reflect the significant developments in climate policy, including the introduction of Local Authority Climate Action Plans and enhanced national targets.
By signing the Charter, Laois County Council has committed to working collaboratively with national government to deliver on climate action objectives. These include achieving a substantial reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, improving energy efficiency, and working towards a climate neutral economy by 2050.
The Charter also reinforces the role of local authorities as leaders in driving climate action, supporting communities, and embedding sustainability across all services and operations.
Laois County Council said they will continue to deliver on their Climate Action Plan, focusing on reducing emissions, enhancing resilience to climate impacts, as well as supporting communities and businesses in the transition to a low-carbon and sustainable future.
Climate Action Co-ordinator with Laois County Council, Suzanne Dempsey said the updated Charter marks an important step forward for Laois County Council, reflecting the work already underway across the organisation and the strong commitment of staff to tackling climate change.
She said it strengthens how the Council works with national government and partners, while continuing to embed climate action and sustainability across its services, operations and decision-making.
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