The Irish climate stripes represent changes in air temperature over time.

Ireland's Climate Stripes graphic and the #ShowYourStripes initiative were developed by Professor Ed Hawkins from the University of Reading, using data from Berkeley Earth and ERA5-Land.

Climate change stands as the most significant global challenge we face today. The repercussions of global warming—intensified weather extremes, resource limitations, pandemics, and biodiversity loss—are destabilizing societies and threatening the livelihoods of future generations.

In Ireland, a small island nation situated in a rapidly warming ocean, we are already confronting the highest rates of sea level rise in Europe, along with rising temperatures and unpredictable weather patterns. With nearly 50% of our population living within 10 km of the coast, there is an urgent need for innovative ideas and solutions for future cities and coastal infrastructure. Our economy relies heavily on functioning harbors and shipping, with 99% of all Irish imports and exports transported by sea. Yet, as a nation, we grapple with one of the highest carbon footprints per capita globally. Our heavy reliance on cars for transportation, along with energy-intensive industries and agriculture, further complicates our climate challenges.

Despite these hurdles, Ireland is committed to addressing the CO2 crisis, ensuring that both we and our partners—such as Small Island Developing Nations and tropical Africa—can pursue sustainable, livable futures.

Our Research and Impact

At Trinity, we are dedicated to making a tangible impact on climate change. Through innovative research and forward-thinking education, we provide the knowledge and solutions necessary for mitigating climate change and fostering a resilient Irish society. Our expertise spans various climate issues, including:

  • Exploring the potential of Irish boglands as future carbon sinks.
  • Researching eco-friendly building materials and fuels.
  • Assessing drinking water quality in areas affected by sudden rainfall and flooding.
  • Collaborating with natural scientists and engineers to develop nature-based solutions for adapting to sea level rise.
  • Investigating the effects of climate change on health and society.
  • Implementing climate solutions in both old and new buildings while striving for sustainability on our campus.

We are establishing a new climate research and education gateway to connect our research efforts and enhance our multidisciplinary climate-related education, positioning us as a future-ready university committed to effective knowledge delivery for society.

Trinity’s Goals

According to Ireland's Climate Action Plan, we must reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 51% by 2030, while Trinity's Sustainability Strategy aims for Net Zero by 2040. We also commit to conserving, managing, and restoring at least 30% of Trinity’s land area for nature. Our goal is to foster a cultural shift towards recognising the interconnectedness of planetary and human health.

At Trinity, we are actively collaborating with colleagues, policymakers, and public stakeholders across Ireland and internationally to ensure excellence and maximise our impact. Together, we possess the knowledge and solutions necessary for a resilient Irish future.

#ShowYourStripes

On Friday, 18 October, as part of Climate and Biodiversity Action Week, Trinity’s front façade will be illuminated with the Irish climate stripes. This initiative is organized by Trinity Sustainability in collaboration with the Co-Centre for Climate + Biodiversity + Water, where #ShowYourStripes creator, Professor Ed Hawkins, serves as Deputy Director.

Join us to learn more about Trinity’s Climate and Biodiversity Action Week by visiting the Sustainability events calendar here.

Prof. Wiltshire is Trinity’s Chair of Climate Science.

This initiative has been made possible with financial support from a Co-Centre award (number 22/CC/11103) managed by Science Foundation Ireland (SFI), Northern Ireland’s Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), and UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). It is also supported by the UK’s International Science Partnerships Fund (ISPF) and the Irish Government’s Shared Island initiative.