Future ISO 50001 on Energy Management Progresses to Draft International Standard

The future ISO 50001 standard for energy management was recently approved as a Draft International Standard (DIS). ISO 50001 will establish a framework for industrial plants, commercial facilities or entire organizations to manage energy. Targeting broad applicability across national economic sectors, it is estimated that the standard could influence up to 60% of the world’s … Read more

Government Launches Consultation on Draft Waste Policy

Public consultation has commenced on the Draft Statement of Waste Policy, which is intended to map the future of waste management in Ireland for the next decade and beyond. The consultation period extends until 1st October 2010. ”The fundamental aim of the new draft policy is to protect the environment, reduce costs for householders and … Read more

IBEC Announces Winners of European Environmental Awards

IBEC, the group that represents Irish business, has announced the Irish winners of the 2009/10 European Business Awards for the Environment. The group said that the number and quality of Irish entries this year reflects the growing importance of environmental issues for businesses of all sizes in all sectors. The Irish winners are: Abbott Ireland … Read more

Biodiversity Can be Good For Business

A new report funded by the European Commission makes a strong case for integrating biodiversity into private sector business plans and core activities around the globe. The report reveals considerable recent growth in eco-certified products and services, growing consumer concerns for sustainable production, and shows how biodiversity can provide a substantial business opportunity in a … Read more

EC Approves a Tool to Facilitate Compliance for Small Aviation Emissions

The European Commission has adopted a Regulation approving the use of a tool to estimate fuel consumption by small aircraft operators as part of their compliance with the EU Emissions Trading System. The tool was developed by the European Organisation for the Safety of Air Navigation (Eurocontrol). The tool enables aircraft operators with few flights … Read more

EIB Provides £450m to Ford for New Generation of Environmentally-friendly Engines

European Investment Bank funding for research and development of a new era of low-carbon engines and commercial vehicle technologies at Ford manufacturing plants across the UK was signed off today at Ford’s Dunton technical centre. The package, backed by a 80% loan guarantee from the UK government, forms part of Ford’s £1.5 billion engine and … Read more

Water Conservation Measures Remain In Place in Clare

Clare County Council announced today that despite the rainfall in the last week, water supply to consumers continues to be vulnerable. The local authority says a hose pipe ban introduced two weeks ago in the Ennis area, North Clare and Tulla will remain in force until further notice. Most water supply sources throughout the county … Read more

Low-energy Boiling Technology For Brewing

SABMiller, the second largest brewer in the world and the owner of brands such as Miller Genuine Draft, Grolsch, Peroni and Pilsner Urquell, has developed innovative technology which dramatically reduces the energy input required in the boiling process within its breweries. The new technology, which will be introduced across a number of SABMiller’s operations in … Read more

Over a Third of Dail Legislation Emanated From Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources

As the Dail rises today, Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources Eamon Ryan TD has announced that of the 13 Acts that have been passed during this parliamentary session, five emanated from his Department. The five bills from the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources that were signed into law are: • Energy … Read more