Shaping a sustainable Cork City: The role of Local Green Deals

Recently, Cork Chamber, along with Cork City Council, travelled to the city of Porto, Portugal, to represent the city’s commitment to sustainable growth at the European Intelligent Cities Challenge (ICC) Conference and Mayors – Business Forum. This landmark event brought together European leaders and mayors to advance Local Green Deals (LGDs), focusing on building foundations for LGDs and fostering public-private partnerships to shape the future of our cities.

This two-day event was filled with training sessions and workshops to equip participants with the tools to progress Local Green Deal initiatives at a regional level. Cork Chamber was actively involved in the ‘energy and renewables’ workshops, which highlighted innovative solutions such as energy clusters, energy efficient buildings, and local energy communities. These initiatives are crucial for reducing energy costs and addressing energy poverty across Europe.

Discussions led by LGD experts emphasised the importance of collaboration between cities, businesses, and communities to tackle energy challenges. The insights gained bolster Cork’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions that are equitable and beneficial for all.

During the event, the ICC Mayors – Business Forum took place, which provided a platform for business representative organisations and mayors to discuss how the European Commission can enhance public-private partnerships.

The concept of an LGD is closely aligned with Cork’s strategic vision for 2030, which aims to transform the city into a smart, sustainable urban hub. These discussions are timely given the broader European context. The European Union’s Green Deal Industrial Plan emphasises the need for climate neutrality by 2050, which requires innovative business models and strong industry cooperation. Cork Chamber’s participation underscored the city’s alignment with these European goals and the role of our business community in driving local economic resilience and sustainability.

Cork 2030: A vision for a sustainable city and a call to action

Cork’s 2030 vision is centred on becoming a smart city that integrates technology and sustainability to enhance residents’ quality of life. Key pillars of this vision include energy efficiency, green transportation, and digital infrastructure— areas also central to the Local Green Deals discussed at the event. Cork’s commitment to these initiatives is crucial for achieving a sustainable future.

It is clear that cities across Europe, including Cork, must act to implement Local Green Deals in line with the REPowerEU Plan, which stresses the urgent need for energy efficiency and renewable energy production to counter rising energy costs and ensure long-term sustainability.

Cork Chamber is proud to lead these efforts, advocating for policies and partnerships to drive Cork toward its 2030 sustainable vision. The knowledge and strategies gained in Porto will be instrumental in shaping Cork’s approach to sustainable urban development, ensuring a greener, more resilient future for all.