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Cork City is Recognised by the EU for its Climate Action Plans

17/05/2025

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

Cork City is committed to driving towards climate neutrality by 2030, with a target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by at least 80% over the 2018 levels. This transformation will help make Cork City the best, most resilient, place to live, work and do business.

The Mission Label recognises the work that’s being done in the city, including by Cork City Council and the Climate Neutral Cork Leadership Group, which is made up of 15 organisations from the public and private sector, civil society and young people who have committed to taking positive climate actions across the city and who will help to deliver climate neutrality.

Speaking at a celebratory event in SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh, Lord Mayor Cllr. Dan Boyle said: “The challenge we face is significant. 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 represents our commitment to taking bold actions, fostering collaboration, and leading by example. Together, we will navigate the complexities of this challenge and emerge stronger and more united.”

The Mission can provide it with a diverse range of practical support services to help turn ideas into bankable projects.

The priorities are decarbonising residential and commercial buildings through retrofit and better building energy efficiency standards as well as reducing transport emission through decreased reliance on cars.

An Taoiseach Micheál Martin, TD said: “Today is a proud day for Cork City. The award of the EU Mission Label is an important milestone, recognising the work the City has already done and stands ready to do to tackle climate change. I want to congratulate all those involved in achieving this prestigious award. The Mission Label is not just a title, it is a vote of confidence in Cork and a recognition of the city as a leader in climate action. The work the City is doing on climate change will lead to a cleaner, better, smarter and stronger Cork.”

The Climate Neutral Cork Leadership Group, a multi-stakeholder body, was formed to lead the transition process in Cork City over the next five years.

The Climate Neutral Cork Leadership Group includes:

  • Cork City Council
  • Comhairle na nÓg
  • Munster Technological University
  • University College Cork
  • Cork Business Association
  • Cork Chamber of Commerce
  • Health Service Executive, Cork and Kerry Region
  • Construction Industry Federation
  • Irish Business and Employer’s Confederation
  • Iarnród Éireann
  • Bus Éireann
  • ESB Networks
  • An Garda Síochána
  • Cork Public Participation Network
  • Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications
  • Cork Education and Training Board
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