Ireland’s tourism industry is entering a new phase of climate planning. The Tourism Sectoral Adaptation Plan 2025–2030, published by the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, sets out how the sector can respond to rising climate risks while protecting visitor appeal, local jobs and tourism-dependent communities.
Tourism Climate Plan Sets a National Direction
The new Tourism Climate Plan is Ireland’s first sector-specific adaptation plan for tourism. It has been developed in line with the Government’s National Adaptation Framework, which aims to support a climate-resilient and environmentally sustainable economy by 2050.
The strategy recognises that changing weather patterns and climate-related hazards could affect attractions, accommodation providers, transport networks, natural landscapes and communities that rely heavily on visitors. At the same time, adaptation may create opportunities for innovation, sustainable tourism and stronger regional economies.
Three priorities for the next five years
Implementation of the plan will focus on reducing the effects of the most significant climate risks identified in the National Climate Change Risk Assessment. Its three central goals are to:
- Improve understanding of how climatic conditions affect tourism in Ireland.
- Build shared awareness of climate impacts and the steps needed to strengthen resilience.
- Reduce the consequences of major climate risks for tourism businesses and communities.
The approach is intended to support practical action across the industry, particularly in areas where employment, hospitality and local enterprise depend on a steady tourism economy. Tourism agencies and the department will oversee the actions included in the plan.
Why climate resilience matters for Irish tourism
Ireland’s tourism offer is closely connected to its coastline, countryside, heritage sites and outdoor experiences. These assets can be affected by flooding, storms, coastal change, extreme rainfall and other climate pressures. Preparing for those risks can help businesses protect infrastructure, plan for disruption and maintain a reliable experience for visitors.
The plan also places emphasis on tourism-dependent communities. Better awareness and cooperation between public bodies, agencies and businesses can help ensure that adaptation measures support regional employment and economic growth rather than placing the burden on individual operators.
What the plan may mean for the sector
- More informed planning for climate-related disruption.
- Greater collaboration between tourism bodies and local communities.
- Stronger consideration of resilience in tourism investment and development.
- Improved understanding of environmental risks affecting destinations and attractions.
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Implementation under the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment
The Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment will work with tourism agencies to guide delivery of the Tourism Climate Plan. The publication includes supporting documents, including the Irish-language version, appropriate assessment screening, strategic environmental assessment screening and an SME test.
These accompanying materials provide important context for how the strategy was assessed and how its potential implications for smaller businesses and the environment were considered.
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Frequently asked questions
What is Ireland’s Tourism Sectoral Adaptation Plan?
It is Ireland’s first dedicated tourism adaptation strategy, covering the period from 2025 to 2030 and addressing the sector’s exposure to climate-related risks.
Who published the plan?
The plan was published by the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment on 14 November 2025.
What is the main purpose of the strategy?
Its purpose is to improve climate awareness, strengthen resilience and reduce the effects of climate risks on tourism businesses and communities.
Conclusion
Ireland’s Tourism Climate Plan provides a structured five-year response to the changing conditions facing the visitor economy. Its clear takeaway is that climate resilience must be shared across government, tourism agencies, businesses and communities if Ireland is to protect its destinations, employment and international appeal.
Article/Image Courtesy: gov.ie
