Acting now to build a future-ready business community

Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, today launched its new Sustainability Strategy and Report. The publication sets out a clear framework to embed sustainability across the organisation and to support businesses in building a resilient, low-carbon and inclusive future for the Cork region.

The strategy outlines Cork Chamber’s environmental, social and governance (ESG) commitments for the period 2025–2028, alongside transparent reporting on progress across carbon reduction, biodiversity, wellbeing, governance and community engagement for the past six years (2019–2024). It reflects Cork Chamber’s role as a sustainability leader, championing action through collaboration with business, local authorities and community partners.

Speaking at the launch, Rob Horgan, President of Cork Chamber, said the strategy represents a significant moment for Cork’s business community, “Sustainability is not just an internal organisational priority, it is fundamental to the future of Cork’s economy and its ability to compete globally. Earlier this year, we set out our strategic vision to lead a transforming and ambitious Cork city and county, and this sustainability strategy builds on that commitment. It reflects our ambition for a region that grows responsibly, attracts talent, fosters innovation and creates opportunities for businesses of every size. The sustainability transition ahead will require collaboration and determination, but Cork has the sectoral strengths, international ambition and community spirit to lead. With a strong sustainability lens, we can secure a thriving, resilient and prosperous future for our region.”

Conor Healy, CEO of Cork Chamber said the strategy marks a major milestone in embedding sustainability across the organisation and delivering impact for members, “Our Sustainability Strategy and Report is a clear statement of intent and action. It embeds sustainability across every aspect of how Cork Chamber operates, from our building and resources to how we serve and support our members. This work is not always easy, particularly in a time of global uncertainty and shifting sustainability priorities, but standing still is not an option. That is why, with the support and encouragement of our Sustainability Committee, we have set measurable targets across our own operations and our engagements with members. By transparently reporting on our progress, we hold ourselves accountable and encourage others to do the same.

Mr Healy continued, “Cork is making progress towards our 2030 climate targets, but at the current pace there is a risk we may not meet all of them in time. The ambition remains achievable, but not guaranteed and requires increased momentum, collaboration and investment across all sectors. A strong, sustainable Cork is essential to economic resilience, talent attraction and long-term prosperity.”

As an SDG Ambassador, Cork Chamber continues to align its work with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, strengthening environmental programmes including the Sustainable Cork Programme, the Cork Offshore Renewable Industry Forum (CORIF) and REEValue, alongside social sustainability initiatives such as WorkAbility Cork and Cork Access Network.

Across Cork Chamber’s own operations and its work with the business community, the strategy focuses on practical delivery, from reducing emissions and protecting biodiversity to supporting inclusive employment and accelerating the region’s transition to offshore renewable energy.

Cork Chamber also continues to play a strong advocacy role in supporting the development of offshore renewable energy. Cork is uniquely positioned to lead Ireland’s clean energy transition, and the Chamber is championing the investment and infrastructure needed to strengthen energy security while delivering sustainable economic growth for the region and the country.

Chair of the Cork Chamber Sustainability Committee and Board Member Fiona Kearney said the strategy reflects both ambition and practical delivery, “This strategy is about turning commitment into meaningful, measurable action. It reflects strong governance, clear targets and a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing our region. Sustainability is not a side project, it is central to how we future-proof Cork’s economy and communities.”

Ms Kearney added, “From biodiversity and climate action to wellbeing, equality and inclusion, this strategy ensures we are taking a balanced and integrated approach. We are proud to lead by example and to support businesses as they navigate their own sustainability journeys.”

The strategy also reinforces Cork Chamber’s advocacy role in supporting the development of offshore renewable energy. Cork is uniquely positioned to lead Ireland’s clean energy transition, and the Chamber continues to champion the investment and infrastructure needed to strengthen energy security while delivering sustainable economic growth for the region and the country.

As part of the publication, Cork Chamber also included its Sustainability Report, providing transparency on environmental performance, renewable energy generation at Fitzgerald House, carbon footprint reporting and social metrics.

The full Sustainability Strategy and Report is available to view and download HERE.