Monday 11 May 2020

Ireland records biggest carbon dioxide emission reduction since 2011

Last year, Ireland recorded its biggest drop in carbon dioxide emissions since 2011.

That's according to a recent report by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), that noted a 1.5 million tonnes dip in emissions of the greenhouse gas - it suggests this can be attributed to a 70% reduction in coal-based electricity generation, compared to 2018 figures.

Ireland also recorded a drop in overall energy use by 1.2% and a 6.5% increase in renewable-generated energy, with green power accounting for 11% of total energy use in 2019.

The SEAI states the nation also saw an increase in energy imports last year, jumping to 69% from 67% in 2018.