2rd May 2012: The EPA today showcased Irish organisations and companies that have participated in the EPA’s Cleaner Greener Production Programme and improved their environmental performance, resource efficiency and eco-innovation, while making major financial savings. Laura Burke, EPA Director General also announced a new call for grant aid applications under the EPA’s Cleaner Greener Production Programme.
Laura Burke, EPA Director General, said,
“The EPA’s Cleaner Greener Production Programme specifically seeks to reduce environmental impact through process and product innovation and today’s forum demonstrates that Cleaner Greener Production can provide win-win outcomes for business and the environment. Being resource efficient allows companies to make considerable savings while acting in an environmentally responsible way. Sustainable production and consumption are essential to ensure that economic recovery and growth do not compromise the quality and cleanliness of Ireland’s environment.”
Between 2008 and 2012, 24 different projects were funded under the Cleaner Greener Production Programme across sectors such as food, IT, services and manufacturing. More than 50 companies and organisations were involved and the projects are now being implemented in almost 1,600 sites across Ireland. The EPA committed approximately €2.2m in a once-off grant aid and the participating organisations also committed their own funds, demonstrating their commitment to the projects. Total investment in the projects amounted to €4.5m.
The projects have delivered annual savings of approximately €2.9m. In addition, these projects have demonstrated the potential for significant returns from this type of investment as well as improved corporate social responsibility and environmental credentials.
The EPA today also launched BeGreen , a one stop shop for businesses, homes and commercial activities seeking to prevent waste conserve water and reduce energy consumption. Specific guides and videos to promote resource efficient practices have been developed for a wide range of sectors including restaurants, pubs, garages, shops, farms, manufacturers, service providers, hospitals, festivals, colleges, small and medium sized enterprises and households. The various guides and videos, as well as information about the waste prevention programmes available, can be accessed via the EPA website at http://www.epa.ie/whatwedo/resource/begreen/.
The EPA report Better Business in a Better Ireland – Cleaner Greener Production Programme (CGPP) Business Case Studies 2008-2012 is now available on the EPA website at: http://www.epa.ie/downloads/pubs/research/tech/.
Further information on the call for applications under the Cleaner Greener Production Programme, announced today, will be available on the EPA website from 3rd May 2012. See www.epa.ie.