72% of the general public believe engineers will play a critical role in the transition to a more sustainable society, according to a new survey by Engineers Ireland.
The findings come as the body publishes its latest sustainability plan.
It also comes at a time when the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has issued what has been described by its Chairman Hoesung Lee as a dire warning about the consequences of human inaction.
In its latest report, the IPCC said that despite efforts to reduce the risk, human-induced climate change is causing dangerous and widespread disruption in nature and affecting the lives of billions of people around the world.
"I am pleased to launch our new Sustainability Plan 2022-23 which includes a set of 20 actions developed in consultation with members and staff, and reaffirms Engineers Ireland’s strategic commitment to sustainability through our vision, mission and core organisational purpose," said Professor Orla Feely, President of Engineers Ireland.
"Engineers Ireland champions the principles and practices of sustainable development and enables our engineering community to make a sustainable impact on society.
"Our approach to sustainability includes the resilience of our built and natural environment in the face of extreme weather, the need to reduce emissions related to our buildings, vehicles and infrastructure, biodiversity protection and enhancement, and achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals," she added.
Caroline Spillane, Director General of Engineers Ireland said Engineers Ireland's members and the wider engineering profession will play a central role in delivering a sustainable, green and digital future for Ireland.
"Engineers Ireland will continue to promote and support appropriate climate action measures by supporting the skills development of our members to ensure they are future-proofed for the climate challenge ahead," she said.
