Environment Ireland® is Ireland’s major environmental policy and management conference. Now in its 22nd year, this important event features a range of focused sessions highlighting the pressing issues facing the environment in Ireland and further afield.

Ensure you don’t miss the latest developments in environmental policy and updates from across the sector and put your questions to expert speakers during dedicated Q&A sessions. This is an important opportunity to bring all those involved in shaping the future of Ireland’s environment together for discussion and insight.

Ireland’s environment in 2026

Environment Ireland® is the major event for the Irish environment sector. Bringing together Ireland’s environment stakeholders in one place, the conference provides a wide range of expert speakers examining the overall state of our environment and its future outlook.

Ireland’s EU Presidency, beginning in July, will be a key topic for discussion at the conference and what it will mean for the environment sector. This is a tremendous opportunity for Ireland to champion climate change and nature on a global stage.

The latest assessment of Ireland’s nature showed that 90 per cent of habitats, including woodland, coastal, freshwater and grassland areas, were in poor condition and many species are in decline. According to a April 2026 report from the Independent Advisory Committee on Nature Restoration Ireland requires up to €700 million annually to restore nature.

Ireland's total greenhouse gas emissions are approximately 54 million tonnes of CO₂ equivalent, having steadily declined in recent years. However, the country is currently projected to fall significantly short of its legally binding national target of a 51% emissions reduction by 2030 relative to 2005 levels. The focus must remain on climate action and adaptation.

Ireland's second Whole of Government Circular Economy Strategy 2026-2028 marks a significant step forward for circularity in this country. The strategy sets out an ambitious vision for Ireland to be be a recognised leader in circular innovation and collaboration by 2030.

The 2026 conference is taking place at an exciting time for the Irish environment and is a ‘must attend’ for organisations who are playing their part in tackling the environmental emergencies.