The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Explained
The SDGs are a global initiative aimed at addressing the most pressing challenges our world faces today. These 17 goals focus on ending poverty, protecting the planet, promoting education, and ensuring prosperity for all. The SDGs guide efforts to achieve a more sustainable, equitable, and inclusive world.
Credit Unions’ Role in the SDGs
Last year, credit unions were proud to be recognised as SDG Champions by the Department of the Environment, Climate, and Communications. We are honoured to be part of this and play our part in helping to raise awareness of sustainability issues. Credit Unions have a key role to play within this area.
The Importance of Being SDG Ambassadors
While the Credit Unions’ term as SDG Champions has ended, we have transitioned into the role of SDG Ambassadors. For HSSCU, this represents an opportunity to continue leading by example. Showcasing how credit unions can positively impact both local communities and Ireland’s environment. As SDG Ambassadors, we will continue to advocate for sustainable practices within our sector and communities, encouraging others to join us on this essential journey towards a more sustainable future.
Our Commitment to Sustainability
Our cooperative principles and values, align with the principles of sustainable development. Helping to contribute to a healthier environment and a better future for all. Below are some of the initiatives we’re proud to be involved in:
- Donations and Sponsorships: We provide funding to various initiatives, both big and small, across Ireland. These are member-led and support the communities where our members live.
- Paper Reduction: We are actively reducing our paper usage in all our branches by transitioning to digital communication and paperless transactions, thereby cutting down on waste and conserving resources.
- Tree Planting: In partnership with Cloudforest.ie, we supported the planting of one thousand trees in Dingle to help offset our carbon footprint and promote biodiversity. We are currently exploring other areas in Ireland to launch similar tree-planting schemes.
- Beehives: To protect pollinators and support biodiversity, we have installed rooftop beehives at one of our branches, contributing to the health of local ecosystems.
- Green Roof in Dublin: Our Dublin branch on High Street is home to a ‘Sedum’ living green roof, which not only enhances urban biodiversity but also improves energy efficiency and reduces stormwater runoff.
- Betty Noone Bursary: We are proud to provide this financial support to our members annually. Over the past three years, we have paid over €354,000 directly to our members.
- Scholarship: The HSSCU Scholarship is part of the positive social impact we are having on our members. Whether studying for a degree, diploma, master’s, or any further education course, you can apply for an HSSCU scholarship.
- ILCU Foundation: We provide financial support to the ILCU Foundation who work with Credit Unions in developing countries. Also, staff members volunteer their time with them bringing a wealth of knowledge with them.
Useful Links
- Learn more about the UN SDGs by clicking here: Sustainable Development
- Learn more about our commitment to sustainability by clicking here: HSSCU’s Sustainability Charter
