Government Commitment to Sustainability goals
Sustainability is much more than just a buzzword; it’s becoming ever more important in all sectors of business and something that Irish businesses need to be aware of and take action on. Large businesses are requiring their suppliers and partners to meet sustainability goals and sustainability criteria are increasingly being included in tenders. Businesses aren’t being left to deal with these new demands alone, Enterprise Ireland are offering financial support, the Irish government are taking a whole-of-government approach to implementing agreed sustainable goals and Chambers Ireland are actively supporting their 8,000 members with guidance in the form of a practical Toolkit.
The Background
All United Nations members states including Ireland adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development back in 2015. Universal, inclusive and indivisible, this far-reaching plan calls for action by all countries to improve the lives of people everywhere. It contains 17 sustainable development goals (SDGs) covering everything from poverty and climate change to infrastructure development and industry. Ireland has published an SDG National Implementation Plan to implement them in this country.
Business Supports
Significant investment is being made to develop solutions and products to help countries and companies achieve their sustainability targets. To help Irish companies, Enterprise Ireland will help with advice and also with funding through their Climate Enterprise Action Fund. This offers three different types of financial supports for companies at different points in their journey towards sustainability.
The Climate Action Voucher is a grant worth €1,800 and is 100% funded. With it you can engage an expert who will identify opportunities for your business and develop a high-level plan for you.
Green Start offers up to €5,000 and is 80% funded. It’s all about measuring your companies carbon footprint and identifying ways to improve it as well as helping construction businesses toward attaining Environmental Product Declarations.
GreenPlus applies to companies who are further along their journey or dealing with a larger product. It will give funding which covers 50% of training costs when developing a comprehensive sustainability plan and aligning to international frameworks and standards.
GRENKE can also help you with financing for investment in the sustainability area. We have invaluable expertise and experience with businesses in most industry sectors.
