Ian Talbot
Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland
Meeting EU climate targets requires urgent and decisive action. Businesses have a central role in reducing emissions, innovating solutions and creating a more sustainable future.
Ireland risks facing significant EU penalties for missing its 2030 climate targets, a cost that may arise within the current government’s term. This reality highlights the need for immediate cooperation between government and business. Companies must be supported to grow responsibly within a framework that encourages innovation and climate action.
Business leadership in sustainability
Across Ireland, companies are already acting by cutting emissions, rethinking operations and setting new sustainability standards. These businesses are not waiting for instructions. They are building resilience and competitiveness while helping Ireland meet its climate goals.
Chambers Ireland champions the UN Sustainable Development Goals across the business community. Since adopting the SDGs as a strategic framework in 2019, we’ve embedded them into everything from local chamber activities to national awards programmes.
We encourage companies of all sizes to align with global best practices on sustainability. Our work focuses particularly on SDGs 5 (Gender Equality), 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and 13 (Climate Action). The SDGs are targets we have signed up to achieve as a country. These goals are national commitments Ireland has pledged to achieve. As part of the global agenda, they are due to be met by 2030.
By taking ownership of sustainability
goals, companies can lead the charge and
shape Ireland’s climate success story.
Practical steps for businesses
Business leaders can take decisive steps today to shape a sustainable future:
- Measure and reduce emissions
- Improve sustainability across supply chains
- Support local environmental initiatives
- Engage staff in sustainability projects
- Provide more sustainable options for clients and customers
For support, your local Chamber can offer guidance and connect you to relevant resources. The Sustainable Business Toolkit is also a practical place to start.
If you are looking for inspiration, the Sustainable Business Impact Awards highlight exceptional sustainability projects led by Irish businesses. These examples, available in our awards magazine under the Events section on the Chambers Ireland website, show what is possible when companies are empowered to innovate.
The path forward
By taking ownership of sustainability goals, companies can lead the charge and shape Ireland’s climate success story. While business action is vital, lasting progress needs a supportive environment. Government and business must work together to create the policies and infrastructure for sustainable growth.
