Cork City Awarded Prestigious EU 'Mission Label' for Climate Action Leadership

Cork City has been recognised by the European Commission with the prestigious "Mission Label" for its ambitious climate action plans and strong leadership under the 100 Climate Neutral and Smart Cities Mission.

The award acknowledges Cork's commitment to achieving climate neutrality by 2030, with plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 80% compared to 2018 levels. This transformation aims to establish Cork as the most resilient and attractive city in which to live, work and conduct business.

At a celebration held in SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh on Saturday, Lord Mayor Cllr. Dan Boyle emphasised the significance of the challenge, stating:

"Climate change is a global issue, but its impacts are felt locally. We must improve our building stock, adapt our infrastructure, innovate in the ways we work together, and engage our community in meaningful ways."

The Climate City Contract, submitted as part of the mission application, outlines Cork's strategy to leverage existing capacities and networks within the city. The EU Mission will provide practical support services to help transform ideas into bankable projects.

Key priorities include decarbonising residential and commercial buildings through retrofit programmes and improved energy efficiency standards, as well as reducing transport emissions by decreasing reliance on cars.

An Taoiseach Micheál Martin described the award as "a vote of confidence in Cork and a recognition of the city as a leader in climate action," adding that the work being done "will lead to a cleaner, better, smarter and stronger Cork."

The transition is being led by the Climate Neutral Cork Leadership Group, comprising 15 organisations from public and private sectors, civil society and youth representatives. One notable member, Cork Chamber, has already demonstrated leadership by completing a deep retrofit of their Victorian office building and installing 20 solar PV panels. The Chamber has also facilitated seven Local Green Deals between its members and Cork City Council.

Cork Chamber CEO Conor Healy explained:

"The primary purpose of our projects is to lead by example in securing Cork's future through climate action while empowering the local business community to take formal steps toward sustainability."

David Joyce, Director of Emergency Management and Climate Action at Cork City Council, stressed that achieving net zero requires collective commitment:

"It is a whole-of-city project requiring the commitment and action of all of us. If we approach the challenge with goodwill, energy, and enthusiasm, and pull on the Cork jersey as we work together, then we really can turn Cork into the best, most resilient city."

The Climate Neutral Cork Leadership Group includes diverse stakeholders such as Cork City Council, educational institutions like University College Cork and Munster Technological University, business organisations, transport providers, and public sector bodies.