How We Ranked Ireland’s Counties
To determine each county’s overall Sustainability Score, we analysed data across six key indicators:
- Forest area (hectares) – highlighting local natural carbon sinks
- Air quality (CAQI) – cleaner air means healthier communities
- EV charger availability – access to electric vehicle infrastructure
- Solar panel installations per capita – indicating renewable energy adoption
- Proportion of A-rated homes (BER) – measuring energy efficiency
- Number of high CO₂ emitting vehicles – the fewer, the better
How We Ranked Northern Ireland’s Council Areas
For the North, exact corresponding datapoints were not available for solar installations, number of high CO2 emitting vehicles. We instead included a substitute factor that corresponds to an areas' sustainability.
- Woodland area (hectares) – highlighting local natural carbon sinks
- Air quality (CAQI) – cleaner air means healthier communities
- EV charger availability – access to electric vehicle infrastructure
- Solar panel installations per capita – indicating renewable energy adoption
- Proportion of A-rated homes (BER) – measuring energy efficiency
- Number of high CO₂ emitting vehicles – the fewer, the better
Each area was scored based on its performance across these factors. The results were combined to form a final Sustainability Score out of 600 for the Republic of Ireland, and a score of 400 for the North. The higher the score, the more sustainable the area.
Ireland’s Top 10 Most Sustainable Counties
Based on our analysis, here are the ten counties leading the way in sustainability:
Meath (Sustainability Score = 398.2)
Topping the list, Meath has shown strong performance across all indicators. With a high percentage of A-rated homes and the highest solar panel installations per capita, the county is setting a high bar for sustainable living. Its air quality index and low number of high CO₂ vehicles also contribute significantly to its first-place finish.
Clare (Sustainability Score = 368.6)
In second place, Clare is a standout for forest coverage and excellent air quality. The county is also embracing EV infrastructure and solar energy, supporting both natural and technological solutions to sustainability.
Cork (Sustainability Score = 346.9)
As the largest county in Ireland, Cork's sustainability success lies in its balance. With strong EV infrastructure, significant forest area, and a notable uptake of renewable energy, Cork proves that scale doesn’t hinder green progress.
Louth (Sustainability Score = 337.7)
Despite being one of the smallest counties, Louth has made significant strides. High marks in energy efficiency and air quality elevate its position. Its rapid growth in solar installations also shows a commitment to future-forward living.
Kildare (Sustainability Score = 328.3)
Kildare rounds out the top five, powered by a high percentage of A-rated homes and solid EV charger availability. The county’s forward-thinking approach to residential sustainability puts it among Ireland’s greenest places to live.
Looking North: Where are Northern Ireland’s Greenest Council Areas
Based on our analysis, this is the state of play with all 11 of Northern Ireland’s council areas sustainability efforts.
Antrim and Newtownabbey (Sustainability Score = 232.7)
Antrim and Newtownabbey tops the list in Northern Ireland, driven by the highest air quality score and strong household waste recycling rates. Though its woodland area and EV infrastructure are more modest, its comprehensive performance makes it Northern Ireland’s most sustainable district.
Mid Ulster (Sustainability Score = 223.8)
Coming in second, Mid Ulster leads the way with the largest woodland coverage and robust EV infrastructure. These strengths, paired with solid air quality, make it a leader in environmental preservation and technological adoption.
Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon (Sustainability Score = 216.4)
Third place goes to this large district, known for its expansive green space and good EV coverage. Continued improvements in recycling and air quality are helping it climb the sustainability ranks.
Ards and North Down (Sustainability Score = 155.2)
Fourth in the rankings, Ards and North Down benefits from good recycling practices and commendable air quality. Its relatively lower woodland area and EV availability present opportunities for growth.
Lisburn and Castlereagh (Sustainability Score = 146.0)
Rounding out the top five, this district leads in household recycling but has room for improvement in woodland area and EV infrastructure. Still, its progress shows promise for future sustainability efforts.
Cleaner Choices for a Greener Future
If your home or business is located in a rural area without access to the natural gas grid, making sustainable choices can feel more challenging — but there are options available.
At Calor, we know everyone has their own sustainability journey. That’s why our BioLPG offers flexible blend options—10%, 25%, or 50%—to suit your carbon reduction goals. As it is chemically identical to conventional LPG, BioLPG can be blended seamlessly, making it easy to start lowering emissions without changing your existing setup.
Methodology & Sources
Calor Gas analysed several key sustainability factors in each county. Each data point was weighted in an index score and counties were then ranked based on their resulting Sustainability Score (out of 600).
Full data can be found here: Calor Gas - Most Sustainable Counties - Data.xlsx
Sources:
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