Sir, – John Leahy (Letters, February 7th) argues that we spend billions in vain to reach the “unachievable” targets of the Paris Agreement and that the Government should refocus all efforts and resources to climate adaptation and resilience. This approach, however, turns its back on the health and wellbeing of not only our nation, but the rest of the world.
While it is true that many other northern European countries will fall short of their agreements, this does not mean that the Paris Agreement targets are unattainable – it is merely symptomatic of a lack of political will to do so. Our Government, however, displays wavering, contradictory action in this regard, back-pedalling on climate projects as they are “too controversial”, lifting the passenger cap at Dublin Airport, failing to address our rising agri-sector emissions or adequately develop our public and active transport networks.
Ireland has the second-highest greenhouse gas emissions per capita in the EU, but also the second-highest GDP per capita.
Meanwhile, countries facing more immediate climate risks – often with fewer financial resources – are demonstrating stronger commitment to climate action. From large-scale renewable implementation in Spain to ambitious mitigation pathways in countries such as Costa Rica and The Gambia, the issue is not feasibility, but priority.
Climate adaptation and mitigation must be implemented in tandem, and requires full commitment and investment from Government. The cost of climate change on our health is already apparent in the recent damage to homes and businesses caused by flooding.
We have two options: either pay by investing in climate projects that benefit the wellbeing of the nation, or pay billions in fines to the EU. We are polluters, and we will pay one way or another – including with our health. – Yours, etc.
Orlagh Gaynor,
Drogheda,
Co Louth