Ours to Protect is a unique and exciting audio project – a collaboration of local and regional broadcasters from across the country who have come together to tackle climate change, champion climate action, and inform and educate audiences all over Ireland about how they can make a difference.
Today on ‘Ours To Protect’ John Morley speaks to Philip Hannon, Liquid Gas Ireland Policy Director about how mixed technology can tackle Galway's reliance on high carbon fuels for heat.
Did you know…
- Galway's reliance on high carbon fuels is partly due to its older housing stock? Many of Galway's homes were built before the 1970s, when oil and solid fuels were the most common heating options.
- Galway's reliance on high carbon fuels for heat can contribute to fuel poverty? Fuel poverty is a situation in which a household cannot afford to keep their home adequately warm.
- Galway City Council is committed to reducing the city's reliance on high carbon fuels? The council has several initiatives in place to promote the use of renewable energy sources for heating, such as solar panels and heat pumps.
Why is it important to encourage moving to tech-based solutions to tackle Galway’s reliance on high carbon fuels for heat?
- Reduced reliance on fossil fuels: By combining renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, with energy efficiency measures and low-carbon fuels, Galway can significantly reduce its reliance on fossil fuels for heating.
- Improved energy security: A mixed technology approach can help to improve Galway's energy security by diversifying its energy sources.
- Economic benefits: Investing in renewable energy and energy efficiency can create jobs and boost the economy.
What can I do to help support tech-based solutions to tackle Galway’s reliance on high carbon fuels for heat?
- Support local businesses that are developing and using tech-based solutions. There are several companies in Galway that are working on innovative solutions to reduce the city's reliance on fossil fuels.
- Make changes in your own home. There are a number of things you can do to reduce your home's reliance on fossil fuels for heat. Insulate your home, install energy-efficient appliances, and switch to renewable energy sources for your electricity.
- Educate yourself and others about the issue. The first step to making a difference is to understand the problem. Learn about the environmental and financial impacts of Galway's reliance on high carbon fuels for heat.
Here’s a few websites if you want to know more!
Galway City Council’s Climate Action Plan - https://www.galway.ie/en/services/yourcouncil/spcmembershipandminutesofmeetings/
Sustainable Energy Ireland's Galway HeatMAP Project
https://www.seai.ie/technologies/seai-maps/
The Carbon Trust's Galway City Low Carbon Heating Initiative
For more info go over to galwaybayfm.ie, click on Our to Protect image on home page. You could try out the ‘Ecological Footprint’ calculator and you can take a quick survey.
‘Ours To Protect’ brought to you by Galway Bay fm, the IBI and funded by Coimisiún na Meán with the television licence fee – check out ‘ours to protect.ie for more info.
