Renewed energy for new yearEnergy-efficient design will be important buzzwords for 2007.
With increased attention already being paid to energy efficiency on the European mainland, new EU regulations coming into effect this year will force builders, architects and planners in this country to incorporate energy conservation, efficiency and ways of reducing carbon dioxide emissions into building design. Some local authorities have begun to promote sustainable building, particularly in housing. Others are reviewing planning permission regulations for renewable energy technologies. However, some believe changes are not happening fast enough. Dick Whelan of the Renewable Energy Skills Network believes the Government must provide more grants to people to enable them to upgrade their poorly insulated homes. There is also concern that older people and those on low incomes are wasting money heating inadequately insulated homes. Sustainable Energy Ireland's House of Tomorrow programme, which provides funding towards the design and construction of superior energy performing housing, has been highly praised, however. See www.sei.ie and www.renewableenergy.ie.
Big tests for European resolve
Next Wednesday will be a significant date for environmental campaigners across Europe. On that day, the European Commission will set out a series of proposals for energy and environmental policy after 2012, when targets set under the Kyoto Protocol expire. EU Environment Commissioner Stavros Dimas has already signalled he will push for a 30 per cent cut in Europe's greenhouse gas emissions by 2020. Dr Angela Merkel, German Chancellor and current president of the EU, has previously stated that cutting emissions of greenhouse gases is one of the top priorities for her six-month EU presidency. However, in the last few weeks, Merkel has come under pressure from industrial lobbyists to increase their allowance under the EU emissions trading scheme. We'll have to wait until Wednesday to see whether she'll face down these powerful lobbyists on Wednesday in favour of tougher environmental practices.
New chapters for 2007
Finally, a couple of books worthy of mention that arrived on the Horizons desk over the festive season. The first, Carrauntoohil & MacGillycuddy's Reeks: A Walking Guide to Ireland's Highest Mountainsby Jim Ryan (Collins Press, €20) is essential reading for anyone planning to climb these Kerry mountains. More than 25,000 walkers visit the region every year and it cannot be stressed enough the potential danger that lies therein. This guidebook includes historical information and details of 20 walks, from the easy to the strenuous. It also includes colour Ordnance Survey Ireland maps and specific safety instructions, survival tips and escape routes. Jim Ryan, a civil engineer living in Cork, is a regular mountain walker in Ireland and abroad.
Dublin Bay: Mirror of the Cityby John Givens (The Liffey Press, €19.95) reviews the history and geography of the bay and its shorelines and raises questions about the opportunities and risks ahead for preserving and transforming Dublin and its bay.