Sir, – John Leahy sensibly advocates for robust climate adaptation measures for Ireland (Letters, February 6th).
However, he questions the point of Ireland contributing to the mitigation of climate change, given our small geographical and population size.
This seems ethically dubious. Do we really deserve a free pass by virtue of happening to live in a small state, while we expect our neighbours in the UK, EU, and elsewhere to make the difficult structural, economic, and lifestyle changes required of the climate emergency?
Irish per capita emissions are second highest in the EU, and four times higher than typical rates of low-income countries who will suffer the severest impacts of climate change.
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As a rich, developed nation, we have a moral responsibility to curb our emissions.
Doing so offers benefits such as increased energy independence, less pollution, healthier and safer cities and towns, better public transport, warmer homes, and increased biodiversity.
Failing to do so is prolonging our needlessly profligate model, and a missed opportunity to transform our way of life for the better. – Yours, etc,
STEPHEN WALL,
Rialto,
Dublin 8.
Sir, – Ireland faces a paradox in its climate action approach, pushing for agricultural emission reductions while simultaneously considering an expansion of Dublin Airport that would significantly boost aviation emissions.
This contradiction highlights the critical need for equitable, consistent policies ensuring all sectors contribute equally to our climate goals. The current scenario, where one sector’s growth could potentially offset the hard-won emissions reductions achieved by another, underscores the need for a harmonised approach.
Ireland’s national targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions must be reflected in every policy decision we make. It is imperative that our actions are guided by the principles of fairness and collective responsibility. Only through a balanced and unified strategy can we hope to achieve the ambitious climate goals we have set for ourselves and ensure a liveable future for all. – Yours, etc,
Dr CIARÁN O’CARROLL,
North Strand,
Dublin 3.