Saint Mary’s Cathedral and the Church of Ireland are committed to sustainability and protecting the environment. We believe that acting in the face of the global climate crisis is part of our responsibility to care for God’s earth and help build a just world for all.

The Church of Ireland has steadily increased its environmental focus since 1994. Early efforts included discouraging the use of unsustainable tropical hardwoods and promoting Fairtrade products.

 In 2015, the Church adopted an Environmental Charter which urged all parishes to reduce waste and raise awareness of the importance of environmental sustainability. The Charter asks us to lead by example and engage in global environmental justice.

Stone statue of a medieval knight overlooking a churchyard with tombstones, leafless trees, and blooming shrubs under a partly cloudy blue sky, with a tall gray stone church tower in the background.
Stone medieval church with a tall square tower, arched door entrance, and narrow vertical windows, surrounded by trees and a low stone wall under a cloudy sky.

Collaboration and Care

In 2017 the Church’s climate policy became more formalised when a resolution was passed to divest from coal and tar sands and increase green investments.

In 2018 a further resolution set a 2022 target for full fossil fuel divestment. Its trustee body, the Representative Church Body (RCB), actively manages investments to support a low-carbon economy, including through renewable energy and forestry investments.

The Church collaborates through Eco–Congregation Ireland and is part of broader investor coalitions such as the Church Investors Group, IIGCC, and Climate Action 100+, working to influence corporate and public climate policies.

CONSERVATION AT SAINT MARY’S Cathedral

Saint Mary’s Cathedral Limerick’s building, graveyard and grounds contain many extraordinary and invaluable artifacts that have great historical significance. We are honoured to be custodians of these features and make sure they are cared for by an experienced team of expert conservationists.

A view of Saint Mary's Cathedral, surrounded by an old graveyard with Celtic cross tombstones, under a partly cloudy sky.