Cork City Council agrees 11 new Local Green Deals.

Cork City Council has formalised 11 new Local Green Deals (LGDs), strengthening partnerships with organisations across the city to accelerate climate action at a local level.

At a signing ceremony last night, the Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr. Fergal Dennehy officially endorsed the agreements, which bring together a diverse range of organisations committed to delivering meaningful environmental initiatives.

Building on the success of last year’s award-winning programme, the 2026 Local Green Deals represent firm public commitments from organisations spanning community development, sport, environmental advocacy, social inclusion, and enterprise.

This year’s expanded programme reflects a proactive and inclusive approach to engagement, balancing established organisations with emerging community groups that are making a tangible difference across Cork. Participants range from major sporting bodies such as Munster Rugby and local GAA clubs to community-focused organisations including NICHE and Cork Deaf Enterprises, as well as leading enterprises such as NetApp and Clearstream.

Collectively, these partners will deliver a wide range of climate actions, from retrofitting buildings and enhancing urban biodiversity, to promoting sustainable transport through initiatives such as electric bike libraries.

Speaking at the event, the Lord Mayor of Cork Cllr. Fergal Dennehy said: “I am delighted to formalise these Local Green Deals. Tackling climate change is a shared challenge that requires collective action. It starts at local level. All groups can contribute to the city’s climate targets and it is inspiring to see this initiative continue to grow and succeed.”

Conor Healy, CEO of Cork Chamber, added: “The success of the Local Green Deals initiative demonstrates that sustainability is achievable for organisations of all sizes and sectors. The diversity of signatories, along with the global recognition the programme has received, highlights both the strength and scalability of this model.”

As a member of the EU’s Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities Mission, Cork City is committed to addressing the global climate crisis through meaningful, locally driven action. The Local Green Deals initiative continues to gain international recognition, with Cork City Council receiving a European Commission award last year for delivering “the highest number of local green deals of consistently high quality.” Cork Chamber was also recognised with a World Chambers Award for its collaboration with the Council.