The publication of Ireland’s Biomethane Environmental Sustainability Charter is a landmark step for the sector.

This is according to the Renewable Gas Forum Ireland (RGFI), which said it sets the right foundation, combining ambition with accountability in an already highly regulated industry.

The charter was launched last week by the Government and aims to prevent unintended negative consequences of anaerobic digestion.

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Sustainable

“It is designed to ensure that Ireland’s biomethane growth is sustainable for the long term, embedding environmental integrity, sustainable feedstock use and community engagement” said RGFI CEO PJ McCarthy.

McCarthy added that while the charter provides a strong framework, effective delivery will depend on education, alignment across existing regulatory frameworks, policy and legislation, and active member support.

Communications programme

“To ensure the charter’s principles are put into practice, RGFI will implement a three-year programme of communications and policy engagement to support our members - embedding sustainability, circularity and community partnership into every stage of industry development,” McCarthy said.