Authors: Andrew Kelly, Alessandro Chiodi, Miao Fu, Paul Deane and Brian P. Ó Gallachóir
Summary: Research Report 212 on Climate and Air Policy in Ireland: Synergies and Tensions – A GAINS Ireland and Irish TIMES analysis
Many measures to combat climate change may also have knock-on impacts on air quality. This collaborative research broadens the horizons of national climate and energy research to consider links to air quality and the associated health and environmental impacts.
The broadened perspective on pressures and outcomes can inform the design of better, coherent policy. The research quantifies outcomes that would otherwise not be captured if the focus was exclusively on greenhouse gas emissions. This allows decision makers to consider multiple challenges simultaneously and to set a strategic path that simultaneously addresses climate and air quality concerns.
The research highlights specific issues in respect of increasing share of diesel vehicles in the national fleet, and the growth of biomass combustion in the residential and industrial sectors. Identification of these issues will inform the design of policy and regulation, and investment in alternative or additional technologies, to avoid or reduce negative impacts.
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