Irish Cement receives approval to replace fossil fuels

Irish Cement has received permission from An Bord Pleanála to replace fossil fuels at its facilities in Mungret, Limerick, and Platin, Co Meath.

The Mungret decision has been criticised by Limerick Against Pollution (LAP), according to The Irish Times. The environmental group has been critical of the plant’s environmental record and the proposal to burn used tyres. However, the EUR10m project received permission from the Limerick City and County Council to proceed.

An Bord Pleanála noted that the Mungret plant is situated in an established industrial area and therefore "would not seriously injure the amenities in the area or of residential and other property in the vicinity, would not be prejudicial to public health, would be acceptable in terms of traffic safety and convenience, and would be in accordance with the proper planning and sustainable development of the area".

A spokesman for Irish Cement stated that the plans are essential for the Mungret factory, as it is the only one in the country still dependent on fossil fuels.

"These two positive planning decisions pave the way for further reductions in fossil fuel- use in our business, and will help the factories to reduce their CO2 emissions," he said.