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 talks to Dr Therese Conway, Assistant Professor and Director of the MA Planning and Development in the University of Galway about the importance of planning and its role in tackling climate change.
Did you know…
- Planning on both local and national levels will be vital if Ireland is to meet its ambitious climate targets?
- Proactive steps like investing in renewable energy and improving infrastructure resilience are cheaper than reacting to disasters caused by extreme weather events?
- A 2021 study by the World Bank found that adaptation costs could reach $300 billion annually by 2030 without proper planning?
Why are planners so important in tackling climate change?
- Planners guide how our cities, towns and landscapes develop, They create plans and policies that influence building projects infrastructure investment and land use.
- Planners can help communities adapt to changing conditions by identifying vulnerable areas, implementing flood defences, and promoting natural infrastructure solutions like wetlands and forests.
- Climate change is a complex challenge with long-term impacts. Planners are trained to consider the future consequences of today's decisions, and this promotes long-term thinking on climate change.
What can I do to help support planners who are tackling climate change?
- Staying educated and in the loop on climate issues in your local community.
- Familiarise yourself with your local authorities climate action plan. Galway City Council’s can be found on their website.
- Attend public meetings where local authorities discuss climate planning and voice your opinion.
Here’s a few websites if you want to know more!
Galway City Council – Climate Action Plan
https://www.galwaycity.ie/climate-action-plan
University of Galway – Sustainability Policy
ATU’s Sustainability Centre
https://www.gmit.ie/about/sustainability
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.
