As part of the council’s plan to achieve a carbon-neutral Waterford by 2040, a new initiative called the Business Pledge for A Cleaner, Greener Waterford will be launched on Monday. This program builds on the success of the Commercial Energy Discount Scheme, introduced in 2022, which has helped thousands of local businesses transition toward carbon neutrality.

Businesses are encouraged to sign the Business Pledge and commit to implementing at least two actions within the next 12 months that will reduce their carbon footprint. Those who make the pledge and pay their rates in full will be eligible for a nine percent discount on their rates.

The ”ouncil, which is also pursuing its own climate objectives, sees the Business Pledge as a way for Waterford’s business community to contribute to making the area a sustainable place to operate, while being rewarded for their efforts.

Last year, 800 businesses participated in the scheme by identifying ways to cut energy use and costs, exploring renewable energy options, and benefiting from the rates discount.

Gráinne Kennedy, Climate Action Coordinator with Waterford City and County Council, highlighted that this initiative is unique in Ireland and that collaboration with local businesses can make Waterford the most sustainable place in the country to do business.

“We have engaged with local ambassadors who are making everyday changes that positively impact the environment, reduce costs, and secure a sustainable future,” Ms. Kennedy said.

Dooley’s Hotel in Waterford City, for instance, is making strides in energy efficiency and waste reduction by changing how it sources ingredients, serves food, and manages its in-house laundry. Meanwhile, Cantec Group is reusing packaging and pallets, upgrading its vehicle fleet to electric vehicles, and offering clients re-manufactured machines that cut carbon emissions by 80 percent, aligning perfectly with the Business Pledge objectives.

Ms. Kennedy added that by focusing on energy-saving opportunities and renewable energy, businesses can not only save money but also drive significant change by adopting sustainability strategies and cutting carbon emissions. Collectively, these efforts have the potential to create a positive impact across Waterford.

The scheme is open to businesses with an annual rates bill under €10,000 or those in the hospitality and leisure sectors. Eligible businesses can receive the nine percent discount by detailing the actions they will take to become more sustainable over the coming year.

Submissions open tomorrow, and to qualify for the rates discount, accounts must be fully paid by 23:55 on October 18 of this year or be part of an agreed direct debit payment plan. The credit will be applied after the deadline once all requirements have been met.