Climate Action Roadmap Report 2025
An Emissions-First Focus
Theme 1: An Emissions-First Focus
MIC has an extensive built environment and operational footprint, including campuses in South Circular Road, Limerick and Cathedral Street, Thurles, that comprise of 11.5 hectares and 24.3 hectares respectively (at the 2018 baseline). MIC recognises that it is a net contributor to greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) and that it has responsibility to deliver effective management and mitigation of GHG emissions directly linked to our operations (Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions).
Our buildings shall be constructed and renovated and comply with regulations and applicable standards. We comply with Clean Vehicles Directive & in particular the targets set for 2025.
Roadmap Action Areas
Summary: GHG emissions are directly associated with the energy performance of MIC’s buildings. Gas and kerosene, are the main fuel sources, used for heating.
Delivery of Action: 1.1.1 Optimise space usage through provision of flexible research facilities, offices, and working spaces (estate masterplanning), and focus resources on refurbishing existing building stock to ‘net-zero standard’.
Timeline: Ongoing
Summary: There are a number of potential projects being developed to manage and curtail fossil fuel related emissions from both campus’. MIC is in the process of mobilising decarbonisation programmes associated with fabric insulation, thermal energy generation, distribution and controls coupled with the production of on-site electricity using photovoltaic generation systems.
Delivery of Action: 1.1.2 We will develop the use of our Register (of Opportunities) e.g. garnishing ideas from the Green Teams, Cleaning & Security Staff.
Timeline: Ongoing
Summary: Adhereing to MIC's Green Public Procurement Practices/ Procedures, where the need for a vehicle is identified, shall procure only zero emission vehicles.
Delivery of Action: 1.1.3 Develop improved fleet vehicle register with life-span analysis to prioritise replacements and maximise life of existing vehicles.
Timeline: Q3 2025
Summary: Reduce emissions associated with owned vehicle fleet.
Delivery of Action: 1.1.4 Ensure procurement of vehicles to meet the CAP21 target for purchase of zero emission vehicles where operationally feasible, as well as the minimum targets set out by SI381/2021 Clean Vehicles Directive.
Timeline: Q1 2025
Summary: MIC owned vehicles that are zero emission.
Delivery of Action: 1.1.5 Provide funding for EV replacement and EV charging points through recycling fund or carbon fund, internal funding, or other finance route.
Timeline: Q3 2026
Summary: kWh per Treated floor Area & kWh per Student per Annum.
Delivery of Action: 1.2.1 MIC’s GHG emissions are closely linked to our energy efficiency performance, so some aspects in this commentary overlap. MIC has recently invigorated its Register of Opportunities. Fabric and heating related measures are to the fore. The continued implementation of these projects will enable MIC to decrease GHG emissions and improve its energy efficiency performance. As stated previously, MIC is focusing on bringing a cohort of poorer performing buildings up to standard. There are 2 deep retrofit projects outlined on its Register and MIC intend to engage with SEAI’s EXEED Programme - Excellence in Energy Efficiency Design Certification process, to enable significant improvements (IEQ levels, energy, carbon and operating costs) to these significant energy using buildings.
Timeline: Ongoing
Delivery of Action: 1.2.2 Develop a business case to undertake assessment of energy efficiency evaluation across the estate to improve thermal performance and energy reduction;
Timeline: Q2 2026
Delivery of Action: 1.2.3 Develop a Sustainable Built Environment Investment Framework, including sustainable development models.
Timeline: Q2 2026
Delivery of Action: 1.2.4 Complete an energy efficiency evaluation and use the findings to develop a retrofit strategy which focuses on fabric improvement and energy efficiency measures.
Timeline: Q3 2026
Delivery of Action: 1.2.5 Explore Digital Twin opportunities to replicate key buildings and model energy interventions and fabric improvement, and identify carbon impact changes for potential implementation.
Timeline: Q4 2026
Delivery of Action: 1.2.6 Work with construction and refurbishment contractors to improve understanding of waste arising from this activity maximise application of the waste hierarchy in this setting.
Timeline: Q1 2026
Delivery of Action: 1.2.7 Establish process to monitor and record furniture and equipment reuse, including baseline setting.
Timeline: Q2 2026
Delivery of Action: 1.2.8 Generate our own renewable energy on campus.
Timeline: Q1 2026
Summary: Develop this roadmap annually and in line with any updates required/ resulting from changes to Annual Climate Action Mandates.
Delivery of Action: 1.3.1 The Sustainability Champion and Director will be responsible for updating the MIC Annual Climate Action Roadmap.
Timeline: Ongoing
Delivery of Action: 1.3.2 Develop the Climate Action Roadmap 2025.
Timeline: Q1-Q4 2025
Delivery of Action: 1.3.3 Confirm baselines for scopes 1, 2 & 3.
Timeline: Q3 2025
Delivery of Action: 1.3.4 Develop business cases for campus adaptation solutions – including projects which improve biodiversity, nature, and improved wellbeing. For example, enhanced rainwater goods, grey water solutions, Sustainable Drainage Systems (SUDS), improved localised temperature control, biodiversity planting regimes.
Timeline: Q4 2025, Q1 2026
Institutional Ethos
Theme 2: Institutional Ethos
A holistic learning experience with a call to action.
At the heart of Mary Immaculate College’s (MIC) mission is its commitment to fostering a transformative learning environment that supports the holistic development of students.
Summary: We have Green Teams in place. Our Thurles campus has achieved their Green Flag from An Taisce.
Delivery of Action: 2.1.1 Continue to resource the Green Team Thurles.
Timeline: Ongoing
Summary: Develop the Green Team at Limerick Campus.
Delivery of Action: 2.1.2 Aim to achieve a Green Flag from An Taisce, by Q4 2026.
Timeline: Q4 2026
Summary: Our Environment and Sustainability Committee has been re-confirmed by the Executive Team for the new 3-year term (2025-2028).
Delivery of Action: 2.1.3 Its Terms of Reference are outlined on the Teams Environment and Sustainability Committee Channel. There are 23 Members on the Environment & Sustainability Committee.
Timeline: Ongoing
Summary: Director of Sustainability will be appointed.
Delivery of Action: 2.2.1 Leadership & Goverance for Climate Action (see also Theme 6)
Timeline: Q4 2025
Summary: This is ongoing. More attention will be given to these specific aspects during the coming period.
Delivery of Action: 2.3.1 The External Senior Sustainability Consultant is tasked with developing and facilitating appropriate climate action and sustainability training into learning and development strategies for staff. The focus during 2025 will be on delivering training to our Senior Leadership.
Timeline: Q4 2025
Summary: The Director of Sustainability will be tasked with developing staff workshops focusing on Climate Action.
Delivery of Action: 2.4.1 The External Senior Sustainability Consultant is tasked with developing and facilitating appropriate climate action and sustainability training into learning and development strategies for staff.
Timeline: Q4 2025
Summary: Climate Action Training was delivered to the Executive Team during June 2025.
Delivery of Action: 2.5.1 The focus during 2025 will be on delivering training to our Senior Leadership.
Timeline: Q2 2025
Continue to develop and implement an Energy Management System that is compliant with the requirements of ISO50001:2018 standard. Continue to Report & Monitor Energy and Carbon Emissions on the National SEAI M&R System.
Summary: Continue to actively mange our energy and carbon emissions across both campuses.
Delivery of Action: 2.6.1 Develop web based resource to monitor and maintain the ISO50001:2018 tool, maintaining of records, data and analytics.
Timeline: Q3 2025
Delivery of Action: 2.6.2 Continually update the Significant Energy users on both campus' and constantly seek low and no cost opportunities for improvement. In the case of medium and longer term.
Timeline: Ongoing
Delivery of Action: 2.6.3 Conduct review of evaluation of compliance post audit cycle and identify actions to address gaps in compliance and opportunities for best practice.
Timeline: Q4 2025
Delivery of Action: 2.6.4 Implement actions to address internal/external audit findings.
Timeline: Q1 2026
Enhance the metering and monitoring enhancement programme by expansion of the building management system.
Summary: The availability of accurate metered utility information and data is an essential to the development of an effective decarbonisation policy and ISO50001 accrediation.
Delivery of Action: 2.7.1 Complete MIC utility and sub meter(s) and gap analysis of all buildings.
Timeline: Q2 2026
Summary: Set up a system to gather and record energy and associated carbon emissions data.
Delivery of Action: 2.7.2 Survey off campus metering and data links.
Timeline: Q2 2026
Delivery of Action: 2.7.3 Commence installation of additional metering.
Timeline: Q3 2026
Delivery of Action: 2.7.4 Develop network of Display screens for promotion of energy use on campus, weather etc. - Link this to the development of the Green Campus- Green Flag attainment.
Timeline: Q4 2026
Delivery of Action: 2.7.5 Complete MIC utility meter and sub meter and gap analysis of all buildings.
Timeline: Q3 2026
Use energy data to develop gap analysis models (Gap to Target - GtT Tool) and describe MIC's Decarbonisation Plan.
Summary: MIC will develop a Decarbonisation Modeling tool to enable it to evaluate emissions and energy performance sceanrios and monitor its trajectory to 2030 and ebyond.
Delivery of Action: 2.8.1 Develop a decarbonsiation modeling tool, referencing nationally agreed and standardised carbon impact assessment methodologies that will support MIC in meeting its tragets.
Timeline: Q4 2025
Summary: The tool will align with the SEAI GtT tool linked to the M&R System.
Delivery of Action: 2.8.2 Continually review and update the GtT Modelling Systems.
Timeline: Ongoing
Innovation in Teaching & learning
Theme 3: Innovation in Teaching & learning
MIC aspires to stand at the forefront of climate action and sustainability within higher education, championing an integrated vision that combines academic excellence, innovative teaching, and dynamic community engagement.
Rooted in the principles of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) and guided by the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), MIC has embedded sustainability into the heart of its programmes, pedagogy, and partnerships.
Transformative Programme Offerings
Summary: Sustainability at the Core
Delivery of Action: 3.1.1 From teacher education programs that train future educators to embed environmental literacy in schools, to humanities courses that explore social and ecological justice, MIC ensures its graduates are prepared to lead sustainable, ethical, and impactful lives and also to promulgate these values by empowering younger generations to understand the imperatives of life in the coming decades of the twenty first century and to become agents of change themselves.
Timeline: Ongoing review of education programes and outcomes.
Curriculum Design
Summary: Sustainability at the Core
Delivery of Action: 3.1.2 Explicitly integrate sustainability and climate action across diverse disciplines, from teacher education to humanities disciplines.
Timeline: Ongoing review of education programmes and outcomes.
Undergraduate Programmes
Summary: Sustainability at the Core
Delivery of Action: 3.1.3 Unifying thread woven throughout its undergraduate curricula, incorporating themes such as environmental awareness, climate justice, and sustainable development principles across a multiplicity of modules that are intended to have both a foundational and transformative effect for students.
Timeline: Ongoing review of education programmes and outcomes.
Postgraduate Programmes
Summary: Towards a Future Focus on Sustainability
Delivery of Action: 3.1.4 At postgraduate level, MIC offers a suite of innovative programmes designed to meet urgent global challenges and cultivate sustainability leaders.
Timeline: Ongoing
Pedagogy
Summary: Integration of Sustainability by Adopting Innovative and Participatory Teaching Methods
Delivery of Action: 3.1.5 Cultivating critical thinking, creativity, and resilience among students, skills that are essential for addressing the uncertainties of a changing world. Additionally, the incorporation of indigenous and traditional ecological knowledge and practices enriches learning experiences by offering diverse perspectives on sustainability.
Timeline: Ongoing review of education programmes and outcomes.
Learning Technologies
Summary: The Use of New Learning Technologies
Delivery of Action: 3.1.6 Using new learning technologies also represents a significant opportunity for MIC to advance its teaching and learning mission in the context of sustainability.
Timeline: Ongoing
Equality, Diversity, Inclusion & Interculturalism
Summary: With special emphasis on fostering inclusive and supportive learning environments where all students feel empowered to thrive.
Delivery of Action: 3.1.7 MIC graduates go on to inspire, teach, and lead others, making significant contributions to society as educators, leaders, and engaged citizens committed collectively to building a more sustainable and equitable future.
Timeline: Ongoing
Summary: MIC will utilise the Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System (STARS) methodology.
Delivery of Action: 3.2.1 Creating a baseline.
Timeline: Academic Year 2024/25
Delivery of Action: 3.2.2 Performing a gap analysis.
Timeline: Academic Year 2024/25
Summary: Design and deliver professional development (CPD) programmes for in-service teachers.
Delivery of Action: 3.3.1 Design and deliver professional development (CPD) programmes for in-service teachers on teaching climate change and integrating sustainability into primary and post-primary classrooms.
Timeline: Academic Year 2024/25
Summary: Prioritise outdoor and field-based learning in modules to connect students with local ecosystems.
Delivery of Action: 3.4.1 Prioritise outdoor and field-based learning in modules to connect students with local ecosystems (e.g., nature reserves, school gardens, coastal habitats). MIC has also created a dedicated outdoor teaching space on its Limerick campus for this purpose and this will be integrated into the College’s overall Landscape Masterplan.
Timeline: Academic Year 2024/25
Delivery of Action: 3.4.2 Enhance place-based education by using Ireland’s unique geography and biodiversity as a key teaching resource.
Timeline: Ongoing
Delivery of Action: 3.4.3 Foster hands-on learning through engagement with community-led sustainability initiatives, such as the Tiny Forest Project and Green Schools Programme.
Timeline: Ongoing
Summary: Advancepedagogical innovation.
Delivery of Action: 3.5.1 Develop and promote interdisciplinary teaching methodologies that link sustainability themes across subjects.
Timeline: Ongoing
Delivery of Action: 3.5.2 Expand the use of project-based and inquiry-based learning to encourage critical thinking, problem-solving, and active citizenship.
Timeline: Ongoing
Delivery of Action: 3.5.3 Incorporate digital tools and multimedia resources to support teaching about climate change and global sustainability challenges.
Timeline: Ongoing
Delivery of Action: 3.5.4 Encouraging mindfulness associated with any risk of enlarging the carbon footprint by inefficient or non-strategic usage of Artificial Intelligence services.
Timeline: Ongoing
Summary: Develop new sustainability related programmes.
Delivery of Action: 3.6.1 Launch innovative undergraduate and postgraduate programmes with a core focus on sustainability, climate justice, and global citizenship.
Timeline: Academic Year 2024/25
Delivery of Action: 3.6.2 Expand programmes like the M.Ed. in Education for Sustainability and Global Citizenship and MA in Climate, Justice, and Sustainability to attract diverse student cohorts.
Timeline: Ongoing
Delivery of Action: 3.6.3 Introduce flexible, micro-credential modules for professionals seeking to upskill in sustainability education.
Timeline: Ongoing
Summary: Fostering climate literacy.
Delivery of Action: 3.7.1 Ensure all graduates achieve climate literacy by integrating sustainability knowledge, values, and skills into core learning outcomes.
Timeline: Academic Year 2024/25
Delivery of Action: 3.7.2 Provide opportunities for students to undertake research, projects, and placements focused on climate action and sustainability solutions.
Timeline: Ongoing
Delivery of Action: 3.7.3 Promote climate justice awareness through ethical and reflective teaching practices, empowering students to act locally and think globally.
Timeline: Ongoing
Summary: Staff continuous professional development programmes.
Delivery of Action: 3.8.1 Deliver ongoing professional development workshops and training for faculty to integrate sustainability and climate action into their teaching.
Timeline: Academic Year 2024/25
Delivery of Action: 3.8.2 Establish a Sustainability Pedagogy Forum for sharing best practices, tools, and resources among academic staff.
Timeline: Ongoing
Delivery of Action: 3.8.3 Encourage interdisciplinary collaboration among faculty to design innovative, climate-focused modules and programmes.
Timeline: Ongoing
Summary: Operational Sustainability
Delivery of Action: 3.9.1 Delivery of Action: 3.8.3 Encourage interdisciplinary collaboration among faculty to design innovative, climate-focused modules and programmes.
Timeline: Ongoing
Delivery of Action: 3.9.2 Develop student-led initiatives and partnerships to foster environmental stewardship and sustainability leadership on campus.
Timeline: Ongoing
Delivery of Action: 3.9.3 Establish student competitions, events, and showcases highlighting climate action projects and achievements.
Timeline: Ongoing
Summary: Showcase
Delivery of Action: 3.10.1 Embed sustainability learning outcomes into curriculum evaluation processes to ensure ongoing alignment with climate action goals.
Timeline: Ongoing
Delivery of Action: 3.10.2 Highlight MIC’s leadership in climate education through case studies, publications, and conferences.
Timeline: Ongoing
Delivery of Action: 3.10.3 Collaborate with national and international networks to share MIC’s best practices in sustainability-focused teaching and learning.
Timeline: Ongoing
Summary: Agents for change.
Delivery of Action: 3.11.1 Promote student-led projects and initiatives, such as the Green Campus Programme, Tiny Forests, and climate action weeks.
Timeline: Ongoing
Delivery of Action: 3.11.2 Foster global citizenship education by providing students with the tools to address social and environmental injustices locally and globally.
Timeline: Ongoing
Delivery of Action: 3.11.3 Ensure students graduate as empowered advocates for climate action and sustainability, equipped to lead positive change in their professional and personal lives.
Timeline: Ongoing
Research & Knowledge Sharing
Theme 4: Research & Knowledge Sharing
Building on a rapidly gathering baseline of activity, MIC aims to establish itself as a hub for pioneering research in the areas of climate action, environmental sustainability, and Education for Sustainable Development (ESD). Its research endeavours are guided by a clear mission: to generate knowledge that addresses pressing environmental challenges, inform educational policy and practice, and foster a deeper understanding of the interconnections between people, communities, and the planet.
Through collaboration, innovation, and engagement with global frameworks like the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), MIC has achieved significant breakthroughs in sustainability research, while positioning itself as a leader in this critical area.
Research-led contributions to climate and sustainability;
Summary: Critical area that addresses how future generations understand and respond to the climate crisis.
Delivery of Action: 4.1.1 Teaching climate change in primary schools: an interdisciplinary approach.
Timeline: Ongoing
Delivery of Action: Research on teaching the SDGs in schools.
Timeline: Ongoing
Summary: By blending insights from geography, philosophy, and education, MIC has tackled complex questions of climate justice, equity, and sustainable governance.
Delivery of Action: 4.2.1 The MA in Climate, Justice & Sustainability.
Timeline: In place
Delivery of Action: 4.2.2 The Aquabalance Project
Timeline: 24 - 27 May 2025
Summary: Demonstrated its ability to translate research findings into practical applications, informing both educational policy and practice across Ireland and beyond.
Delivery of Action: 4.3.1 The SEAI schools programme review.
Timeline: Ongoing
Summary: STEAM - Science Technology Engineering Arts & Maths
Delivery of Action: 4.3.2 STEAM education and climate awareness.
Timeline: Ongoing
Summary: SEAI - The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland
Delivery of Action: 4.3.3 SEAI energy education engagement initiative for early years.
Timeline: Ongoing
Summary: Through initiatives like the Green Campus Programme and the Tiny Forest Project, MIC has brought its research findings to life, directly contributing to environmental improvement and community development.
Delivery of Action: 4.4.1 Tiny Forests initiative.
Timeline: Planted during 2022.
Delivery of Action: 4.4.2 Outreach and professional development.
Timeline: Ongoing
Partnership & Stakeholder Mobilisation
With a long-standing tradition as a centre of excellence in education, MIC’s contributions to policy formation have had a transformative impact on the quality and direction of Irish education. MIC’s role in policy formation (including both curriculum configuration and State examinations reform processes) is amplified through its partnerships and engagement with national stakeholders, including the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA), the Teaching Council, the Department of Education, and various professional bodies.
By combining its core competencies in research, pedagogical expertise, and practical insights (generated by a long-standing commitment to working at the vanguard of delivery in schools and in community-based settings), MIC has ensured that national education policies are informed by evidence and grounded in best practices.
Summary: Encouraging staff and students to engage in online energy and carbon related training as offered by SEAI. Visit Energy Academy website here.
Delivery of Action: 5.1.1 Develop a plan to identify appropriate climate action training for staff that will be incorporated into ongoing leaning and development.
Timeline: Q2 2026
Delivery of Action: 5.1.2 Complete the roll out of access to the SEAI Energy Academy - work with Human Resources.
Timeline: Q2 2026
Delivery of Action: 5.1.3 Develop workshop packages around new technologies.
Timeline: Q3 2026
Delivery of Action: 5.1.4 Explore mechanisms to celebrate success for staff and students in all areas of sustainability.
Timeline: Q2 2026
Develop advice, guidance and training support programmes to reduce energy, water, waste and procurement.
Summary: Develop this as part of the Green Team work packages - see also Theme 2.1.
Delivery of Action: 5.2.1 Support appropriate opportunities for student and staff involvement in MIC's extra-curriculum sustainability aspects e.g. through involvement in workshops, climate action seminars and networking events.
Timeline: Q1 2027
Delivery of Action: 5.2.2 Extend and revise programme of sustainability events in partnership with MIC Students Union. Consider hosting a Sustainability Week.
Timeline: Q1 2027
Summary: Work with SDGs and prepare links to energy, water, waste.
Delivery of Action: 5.3.1 Prepare SDG tool to link SDGs with Carbon reporting and identify SDG to activity.
Timeline: Q4 2026
Summary: Commence new engagement programmes at both campuses.
Delivery of Action: 5.4.1 Establishment of a new Student Sustainability Committee to provide opportunities for more students to engage with actions to reduce energy and GHG.
Timeline: Q3 2026
Delivery of Action: 5.4.2 Review and update policies and procedures to ensure that there are no gaps (from Sustainability, GHG, Energy-efficiency & Climate Actions, points of view).
Timeline: Q3 2026
Delivery of Action: 5.4.3 Recognising that sustainability emerged as a core value of our campus community, work with Internal Communications to build an effective, robust communication network on sustainability throughout both campuses e.g. website, newsletter, social media platforms.
Timeline: Q2 2026
Summary: Improve cycle and other future travel mode parking infrastructure, accessibility and sustainability.
Delivery of Action: 5.5.1 Review MIC's car parking and traffic flow management, with respect to new travel patterns, behaviours and technologies, and develop perople transfer systems, as appropriate.
Timeline: Q1 2026
Delivery of Action: 5.5.2 Explore salary sacrifice schemes for staff to purchase reduced price electric vehicle.
Timeline: Q1 2026
Delivery of Action: 5.5.3 Review and expand cycling infrastructure, including showers, storage, and racks and explore expanding Cycle to Work scheme to include electric bikes and provide bicycle repair facilities.
Timeline: Q2 2026
Leadership and Governance for Climate Action
Theme 6: Leadership and Governance for Climate Action
MIC recognises that strong leadership and effective governance are essential for driving its ambitious climate action and sustainability goals.
Anchored by an institutional commitment to integrate sustainability across all areas—teaching, research, campus operations, and community engagement—MIC has developed a robust governance structure to ensure oversight, accountability, and continuous improvement in its sustainability efforts.
Continuation of the SEAI partnership approach and support will be an essential component in the achievement of the MIC Climate Action Decarbonisation plan.
Summary: Reporting on GHG emissions, implementation of the mandate, sustainability activities report & compliance with Circular 1/2020: Procedures offsetting the emissions assocaitied with official air travel.
Delivery of Action: 6.1.1 These aspects are reported using the SEAI's M&R. We comply with all legal and other requirements, as mandated.
Timeline: Compliant - ongoing.
Summary: Using SEAI’s Public Sector M&R System, public bodies are to report annually on implementation of the individual mandate requirements using a “comply and explain” approach.
Delivery of Action: 6.2.1 We confirm that we complete the annual statement on compliance and implement the mandate requirements.
Timeline: Compliant - ongoing.
Summary: The VP Governance & Strategy and VP Administration & Finance are members of the College Executive Management Team. The VP Administration & Finance is the MIC Climate and Sustainability Champion, overseeing the implementation of the MIC Decarbonsiation Roadmap and the Sustainability Strategy. The Director of Buildings and Sustainability is tasked with developing and implementing the college's decarbonisation plan and periodically advising the Executive Team.
Delivery of Action: 6.3.1 The Director of Sustainability (DOS)is tasked to advise and champion the Decarbonisation Roadmap at Mary Immaculate College and College's Executive Management Team.
Timeline: Q4 2025
Summary: MIC has nominated the Director of Sustainability to lead the Climate Action and Sustainability strategy.
Delivery of Action: 6.3.2 The Director of Sustainability will continue to support the actions of the College.
Timeline: Q4 2025
Summary: The Director of Sustainability will be nominated as the Energy Performance Officer (EPO) who will support the College Green Teams.
Delivery of Action: 6.3.3 Establish and resource Green Teams, reporting to senior management. Names and roles of individuals appointed to Green Team, and terms of reference for Green Team (note that the first version of roadmap should focus on the energy targets).
Timeline: Q3 2025
Delivery of Action: 6.3.4 Sustainability Advisory Board to provide strategic oversight of the College's commitment to sustainability, play a key role in the development of strong governance structures, support the integration of sustainability into daily activities at all levels across both campus'
Timeline: Q2 2025
Delivery of Action: 6.3.5 MIC Sustainability Policy is being developed. This policy will be implemented from Q1 2026.
Timeline: Q1 2026
Summary: MIC will update this Roadmap annually. The review will will include a summary of progress made against the plans set out in the previous years roadmap, assess progress against meeting the mandated actions for the Climate Action Plan, and a statement on when they will be achieved or delivered.
Delivery of Action: 6.4.1 Update and publish the MIC Decarbonisation Roadmap annually.
Timeline: Within 3 months of the Climate Action plan annual update being published.
Summary: The annual update and projected cost will be included in capital funding and other sources of funding for Carbon reduction measures.
Delivery of Action: 6.4.2
Summary: THE SDG impact ranking position.
Delivery of Action: 6.5.1 Review THE SDG Impact Ranking criteria to establish opportunities for further improvement.
Timeline: Q2 2026
Delivery of Action: 6.5.2 Review and update our sustainability information eg Sustainable Campus webpages (where applicable).
Timeline: Q2 2026
Delivery of Action: 6.5.3 International recognition for progress on sustainability. Participate in international sustainable ranking systems, including Sustainable Tracking Assessment and Rating System (STARS) by the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE) and Times Higher Societal Impact Rankings. Continue to achieve national recognition through the An Taisce Green Campus Programme. Develop and gain Green Flag status for MIC's campus in Limerick.
Timeline: Q3 2026
See also, the baseline data sheet.
Summary: Understand carbon baseline on scopes 1,2 and 3 from baseline years; 2016, 2017, 2018. See also references and notes sheet.
Delivery of Action: 6.6.1 Expand on the MIC carbon footprint and redefine the baselines for scopes 1, 2 & 3.
Timeline: Q3 2026
Delivery of Action: 6.6.2 Develop data collection and reporting framework for scopes 1, 2 & 3 inline with international best practice, scope 1&2 with SEAI M&R.
Timeline: Q3 2026
Delivery of Action: 6.6.3 Establish long-term scope 3 approach.
Timeline: Q4 2026
Delivery of Action: 6.6.4 Cost the Climate Plan in financial plans in the 2025/2026 planning cycle and ensure investment is secured through the college's planning process.
Timeline: Q3 2026
Summary: Supporting wider commitments Limerick City and County Councils and Regional Authorities.
Delivery of Action: 6.7.1 Develop projects in collaboration to achieve shared net zero aims, including improvements to travel infrastructure and a city-wide living lab approach.
Timeline: Ongoing
Delivery of Action: 6.7.2 Work across the Region on a net zero approach to tackling fuel poverty working in collaboration with colleagues.
Timeline: Ongoing
Delivery of Action: 6.7.3 Explore opportunities to enhance outreach and widening participation activities.
Timeline: Ongoing
Delivery of Action: 6.7.4 Extend local biodiversity/environmental projects, inc. trailing our urban greenspace biodiversity design principles with local partners and co-developing green-space projects that support local biodiversity.
Timeline: Ongoing
Delivery of Action: 6.7.5 Work with Limerick City and County Councils on the decarbonisation plan for the area, consult with their Climate Action Champion Mr Kieran Reeves.
Timeline: Ongoing
Delivery of Action: 6.7.6 Participate in partnerships with like-minded enterprise and community groups in developing the potential to develop a more circular economy. In doing so, the overarching aim is to use less resources and reduce any impacts on the environment, including climate change. Embrace the wider community, by sharing campus resources and expertise for the greater good of society.
Timeline: Ongoing
Targets & Additional Actions
Targets
51% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030, using an average from the baseline years, which are 2016-18. 50% improvement in energy efficiency, using the baseline year which is 2009.
Major Mandate Changes 2024 to 2025
- Green Public Procurement (3.4.1, 3.4.2)
- Construction methods and materials (3.5.3)
- Organic Food (3.6.1)
- ICT Equipment (3.8.1)
- Paper (3.9.1)
- Water (3.10.2)
- Waste (3.12.2)
- Procurement of energy-related products (4.5)
- Cleaning Services (4.6)
Summary: Continual improvement in the College's energy performance. Achieving the energy efficency target (50% improvement by 2030).
Delivery of Action: Improve the energy performance of existing buildings and facilities through continued investment in energy efficiency and conservation measures e.g. ISO14001 Environmental & ISO50001 Energy Management, capital & refurbishment projects, BMS expansion, LED lighting, heating and ventilation system upgrades etc. utilising our SEAI/HEA and other funding streams. See also A 7.3.1 & A 7.3.2.
Timeline: Ongoing
Delivery of Action: Undertake climate risk assessment and assess whether climate risk should be included in a Strategic Risk Register.
Timeline: Ongoing
Delivery of Action: Broaden the reach of energy management-related activities.
Timeline: Q3 2025
Delivery of Action: Ensure life cycle energy and carbon emission performances are considered during the design and tendering of new, and retrofit, building projects.
Timeline: Ongoing
Delivery of Action: Roll out switch off initiatives across the campus, starting with weekends, long weekends, holidays etc.
Timeline: Q4 2025
Delivery of Action: Minimise the carbon emissions associated with our IT infrastructure and provision.
Timeline: Ongoing
Delivery of Action: Become a research leader in the development of carbon neutral teacher/student learnings & demonstrated outputs (e.g. portfolios on the cloud linked by barcode). Introduce new energy-saving technologies and renewable technologies through pilot projects with Higher Education Authority (HEA) and Sustainable Energy Authority Ireland (SEAI).
Timeline: Ongoing
Summary: Increase kWh power generation from our own renewable assets.
Delivery of Action: Complete campus-wide feasibility assessment of Solar PV retrofit installations.
Timeline: Q1 2026
Summary: Reduce natural gas % contribution of total heating supply by 20%, related activities by the end of Phase 1.
Delivery of Action: Carry out a deep retrofit of the Res Block, using the Excellence in Energy Efficiency design methodologies, and Stage 1 funding from the SEAI.
Timeline: Q4 2025
Delivery of Action: Apply EXEED methodologies to develop retrofit projects at Gerard House, the Franco German building and the drama building.
Timeline: Q2 & Q3 2026
Delivery of Action: Further develop our understanding of heat pump, Solar PV-Thermal and other low carbon heating technologies (including electrification) from a retrofit context and commence installations.
Timeline: Q1 2026
Delivery of Action: Implementation of other heat decarbonisation projects and creation of a ‘Heat Carbonisation Plan’, in line with the requirements and funding available.
Timeline: Q1 2026
Delivery of Action: Undertake mapping of demand side power and heat to develop a long list of options to decarbonise the heat network & associated infrastructure, including future fuel options.
Timeline: Q1 2026
Delivery of Action: Develop a robust decarbonisation business case from a short list of viable options across all sites outlining changes to infrastructure, fuel options, scope of work, schedule of work and approximate budget estimate.
Timeline: Q2 2026
Summary: Incorporate F-Gas monitoring & measuring into emissions reporting.
Delivery of Action: Develop baseline survey and record current F-Gas levels and refrigerants.
Timeline: Q1 2026
Summary: Implement MIC Procurement Policies which adhere to Green Public Procurement Guidance Documents. Refering to the EPA Green Public Procurement Guidance Documents and the Office of Government Procurement’s online Green Public Procurement Criteria Search tool as resources.
Delivery of Action: MIC has developed policies to embed sustainable considerations into all stages of its procurement process. Develop staff training on Green Procurement Policy, as applicable.
Timeline: Q1 2026
Summary: Green Public Procurement is a process where public sector bodies seek to source goods, services or works with a reduced envirornmental impact. For procurement of goods, services or works during 2024 & beyond, for which national GPP criteria were available, GPP criteria is published in the tender documentation for individual contracts using public funds that are at a value above the applicable EU procurement thresholds?
Delivery of Action: Continually update the Significant Energy users on campus and monitor.
Timeline: Ongoing
Summary: Measure the environmental and climate benfiits achieved through the application of green criteria in future procurements.
Delivery of Action: Liaise with regional and national procurement bodies e.g. OGP to drive improvements in emissions calculations.
Timeline: Ongoing
Delivery of Action: Establish and implement a robust approach for embedding circular economy methodologies across each Campuses' teaching, research, outreach activities and student experiences, Catering & Sporting Service Provision, Lime Tree Theatre etc.
Timeline: Ongoing
Summary: Include energy usage (A to F Rated equipment) as part of the assessment criteria when purchasing electronic and electrical equipment.
Delivery of Action: Include the energy assessment/rating when tendering for electronic and electrical equipment.
Timeline: Ongoing
Delivery of Action: Explore low carbon IT solutions, including Cloud First strategy.
Timeline: Ongoing
Summary: Counting the cost of embedded carbon.
Delivery of Action: Devise a Statement of Fundmentals guidance document and include the performance specifications for embodied carbon associated with capital & retrofit works.
Timeline: Q1 2026
Delivery of Action: Develop a method to account for the embodied carbon and emissions reporting; from construction related activities.
Timeline: Q1 2026
Additional Actions - Travel, Catering, Water, Biodiversity & Embedded Carbon
Summary: Cut annual emissions from business travel by 30% against a 2016-18 baseline.
Delivery of Action: Enhance our business travel data collection processes including further detailed journey mapping.
Timeline: 2026
Delivery of Action: Enable/incentivise alternatives to air travel through methods such as investment in videoconferencing technology, an internal carbon taxation scheme, subsidies, or other actions.
Timeline: Ongoing
Summary: Improve the response rate of our annual colleagues and student travel surveys.
Delivery of Action: Liaise with Limerick City and County Council (LCCC) and National Transport Authority (NTA) to raise awareness of deficiencies in Limerick City’s pedestrian and cycle network. Collaborate to increase opportunities for sustainable transportation. Similarly, work with Thurles Town Council to raise awareness of deficiencies in pedestrian and cycle networks.
Timeline: Q1 2026
Delivery of Action: Develop social media platforms to include commuting related messages; to staff and students.
Timeline: Q1 2026
Delivery of Action: Incentivise the uptake of public transport, cycling and walking by providing additional showering and bicycle parking facilities, and promoting cycle-to-work schemes. Continue to support the Park and Ride service - Limerick Greyhound Track to MIC Campus.
Timeline: Q2 2026
Summary: Support the reduction of private car and taxi modes of transport, where applicable.
Delivery of Action: Collaborate with local authorities, private and public partners to develop routes and new travel modes e.g. e-scooters and e-bikes.
Timeline: Q2 2026
Delivery of Action: Align international student travel related emissions with M&R Reporting requirements.
Timeline: Q1 2026
Delivery of Action: Disseminate the information outlined in the MIC Travel Plan.
Timeline: Q1 2026
Summary: Prioritise prevention of waste at every opportunity through eco-design, reuse and repair. Recycle and re-use waste in ways that promote resource efficiency, reduce cost, protect health and the environment.
Delivery of Action: Develop an MIC Campus-wide Waste Policy, seeking to go beyond the management of waste, to eliminate the use/purchase of any harmful materials and extend the life cycle of the equipment used at both campuses.
Timeline: Q2 2026
Delivery of Action: Undertake a new campus-wide waste characterisation survey as part of an information gathering exercise to influence and target behavioural change.
Timeline: Q2 2026
Delivery of Action: Work with catering contractors to achieve a 50% reduction in food waste (i.e. kitchen waste and plate waste) from catering outlets, by 2026, ahead of the Irish Government’s target of halving food waste by 2030.
Timeline: Q4 2025
Delivery of Action: As part of the Procurement Framework, seek to reduce single-use laboratory/ teacher resource plastics and promote the use of green products/alternatives. Substitute single-use plastic with other reusable materials and work with suppliers to reduce packaging plastic.
Timeline: Q4 2025
Delivery of Action: Be a world leader in research and innovation that seeks to optimise waste as a resource to recover raw materials.
Timeline: 2026
Summary: Recognise water as a critical and limited resource by adopting an MIC Water Policy.
Delivery of Action: To eliminate the reliance of staff, students and visitors on single use plastics for water consumption.
Timeline: Q3 2025
Delivery of Action: Reduce, from a 2018 baseline, water usage in campus buildings by 10% by 2026.
Timeline: Ongoing
Delivery of Action: Install water metering systems across both campuses.
Timeline: Q4 2026
Delivery of Action: Install water saving devices in kitchens workshops and WC facilities across both campus' e.g. low flow taps, dual flush WC’s time control on urinal flushes and showers and low flow shower heads.
Timeline: Ongoing
Delivery of Action: Incorporate water usage reduction as a key project design component as part of new buildings and retrofits. For example, identify opportunities to install rain water harvesting systems in new buildings and buildings being retrofitted, in line with Statement of Fundamentals.
Timeline: Ongoing
Delivery of Action: Raise water management awareness amongst staff, students and visitors.
Timeline: Ongoing
Delivery of Action: Continue to support research activities in water resources management, water usage reduction, water supply and water treatment.
Timeline: Ongoing
Delivery of Action: Share knowledge, information and research findings, with the wider community, in relation to sustainable water management.
Timeline: Ongoing
Delivery of Action: Map accessible water points - perhaps using a Web Application.
Timeline: Q1 2026
Summary: To be a leader in how we implement sustainable procurement, planning, materials and practices to ensure the campus remains biodiverse, safe and healthy.
Delivery of Action: Develop and enhance biodiversity sites on campus.
Timeline: Ongoing
Delivery of Action: Implement and update our biodiversity action and pollinator plans.
Timeline: Ongoing
Delivery of Action: To use both campuses and our wider research stations as living labs, and utilise research to inform management/biodiversity practices; for example, habitat management for wildlife (including pollinators), invasive species treatment and control, and diverting food wastes into composting/ anaerobic digestion and bio-compatible. Using outdoor lighting (low blue content, lower overall intensity, fully directed downwards) and minimising the use of 'wall wash' lighting.
Timeline: Ongoing
Delivery of Action: Increase campus and wider community awareness and appreciation of biodiversity for its intrinsic value, for ecosystem health and for personal health and wellbeing. Sign up to and encourage 'Leave No Trace' ethos in engagement with biodiversity across both campuses.
Timeline: Ongoing
Delivery of Action: Work with national bodies, local and regional authorities, city and county civil and civic society organisations, including for example, Irish Wild life Trust, The Climate Action, Biodiversity & Environmental Strategic Policy Committee, An Taisce, Limerick Environmental Network, Environmental Trust Ireland, The Maigue Rivers Trust, Limerick Civic Trust etc.
Timeline: Ongoing
Ensure there is a Display Energy Certifcate (DEC) in every building frequently visited by the public.
Summary: The Display Energy Certificate (DEC) aims to encourage the owners of public buildings to adopt energy efficiency measures by displaying their energy performance.
Delivery of Action: Carry out audit of the current DEC and prepare schedule of DEC certificates to be completed.
Timeline: Ongoing
Delivery of Action: Publish DECs certifcates for both Campuses.
Timeline: Complete
Baseline Data & References and Notes
Baseline Data
References and Notes
Director of Procurement & Director of Estates & Sustainability report to the Vice President for Administration & Finance.
The Director of Sustainability is a new position and will report to the Vice President of Governance & Strategy.
Summary of CO2, Cost and Energy Usage 2024
| Limerick Campus & Thurles Campus |
|---|
| Energy Type: Imported kWh: 2,052,032 Kg of CO2: 543,788 Cost: €509,532 |
| Energy Type: Gas kWh: 4,670,884 Kg of CO2: 952,860 Cost: €750,349 |
| Energy Type: Kerosene kWh: 513,280 Kg of CO2: 131,913 Cost: €84,691 |
| Energy Type: Transport kWh: Kg of CO2: 7,111 Cost: |
| Total kWh: 7,236,196 Total kg of CO2: 1,635,673 Total Cost: 1,344,573 |
| Unit Cost: 0.248306 | Conv: 0.265 | 0.26 |
| Unit Cost: 0.160644 | Conv: 0.204 | 0.16 |
| Unit Cost: 0.165 | Conv: 0.257 |
- An Emissions-First Focus
- Institutional Ethos
- Innovation in Teaching & learning
- Research & Knowledge Sharing
- Partnership & Stakeholder Mobilisation
- Leadership and Governance for Climate Action
- Targets & Additional Actions
- Baseline Data & References and Notes
