News Update 12.03.2025

• As the Irish Independent reports, communities in the US affected by fracking have urged Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Tánaiste Simon Harris to meet with them during their St. Patrick's Day visit, before Ireland proceeds with plans to import liquified natural gas (LNG) from the US. The plea follows the Irish Cabinet's approval of a national gas storage facility using imported LNG, which is primarily extracted through fracking—a practice banned in Ireland due to its environmental and health impacts. https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/groups-affected-by-fracking-in-us-plea-for-meeting-with-taoiseach-before-importing-lng/a1108003328.html?

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• In a report by The Irish Times, Toyota prefers a ‘slow and steady ‘ approach to the electric vehicle market, emphasising regional consumer needs and a diverse portfolio of power options. Despite criticism for lagging in all-electric models, Toyota remains committed to being carbon neutral by 2050. Recent changes to the EU’s emissions plan, extending targets to 2027, support Toyota's strategy of gradual transitions. https://www.irishtimes.com/motors/2025/03/12/toyota-favours-slow-and-steady-approach-in-electric-vehicle-market/?

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• As covered by Business Plus, new data from the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) reveals a dramatic shift towards automatic vehicles in Ireland. Over the past decade, manual car sales have dropped by 50.7%, while automatic vehicle sales have surged by 509.8%. https://businessplus.ie/motoring/manual-car-sales/?

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• Ireland’s Forecourt Retailer reveals that Circle K has been awarded the Guaranteed Irish symbol for its contributions to local employment, enterprise, and community investment in Ireland. With 2,300 employees and a network of 420 service stations, Circle K has expanded its operations, created new jobs, and supported local communities. The company is committed to sustainability, operating Ireland's largest EV charging network and using 100% Irish renewable solar energy. https://forecourtretailer.com/circle-k-supports-irish-jobs-and-communities-with-guaranteed-irish-accreditation/?

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• According to The Irish Times, Palm Logistics has completed a new, high-bay warehouse for Elsatrans at Momentum Logistics Park in Naas, Co Kildare, expanding Elsatrans' operations. The new buildings aim for LEED Gold certification and will feature photovoltaic panels, EV chargers, and efficient heating and ventilation systems. https://www.irishtimes.com/property/commercial-property/2025/03/12/development-at-momentum-logistics-park-gathers-pace/?

• Forbes discusses how a fossil-free military could save Europe's economy by reducing dependence on fossil fuels and mitigating climate change impacts. The article highlights the significant CO? emissions from global militaries and the vulnerabilities of oil-dependent supply chains. It argues for a phased transition to biofuels, hydrogen, and electrification, starting with logistics and base operations. https://www.forbes.com/sites/we-dont-have-time/2025/03/11/how-a-fossil-free-military-could-save-europes-economy/?