The Irish government has announced an additional €5 million in funding to support urban nature-based solutions projects across the country, aiming to improve climate resilience, boost biodiversity, and reduce flooding risks in cities and towns.
The funding was unveiled by Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity Christopher O’Sullivan at the third annual Nature-Based Solutions Conference held at Dundalk Institute of Technology. The investment will be administered by the Local Authority Waters Programme and will support the construction of projects designed to manage surface water, enhance water quality, and create habitats for wildlife in urban environments.
According to the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, the funding aligns with Ireland’s Water Action Plan by delivering benefits for water management, biodiversity conservation, and climate adaptation through integrated solutions. The initiative is expected to help expand and mainstream nature-based approaches over the next five years.
Urban nature-based solutions use natural processes to address environmental challenges, including flooding, pollution, and the impacts of climate change. These projects can include green spaces, rain gardens, wetlands, and other sustainable infrastructure that help absorb rainfall while improving local ecosystems and public wellbeing.
Government officials highlighted the growing role of local authorities in implementing innovative environmental solutions. The new funding builds on pilot projects carried out over the past two years and is intended to accelerate adoption across communities nationwide.
The announcement comes as experts increasingly recognize the importance of nature-based solutions in achieving climate goals. Research from the International Union for Conservation of Nature suggests that such approaches could deliver up to one-third of the climate mitigation needed to meet the objectives of the Paris Agreement.
As Ireland continues to invest in sustainable infrastructure, the latest funding package is expected to strengthen efforts to protect water resources, improve urban resilience, and create healthier environments for communities across the country.
