BAI launches Broadcasting Sustainability Network and sustainability roadmap for Irish broadcasting sector

The Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (BAI) has today (25.11.20), launched the Broadcasting Sustainability Network and a sustainability roadmap for the Irish broadcasting sector. The Network is a voluntary sector-wide sustainability group of Irish broadcasters and representatives of their supply chains. It aims to foster best practice and to provide the support to make the Irish broadcasting sector a sustainability leader that uses its collective voice to create a greener, more inclusive, more resilient future for all. The Network was established and developed by the BAI in the context of its strategic commitment to demonstrate and show leadership in environmental, social and economic best practice.

The sectoral sustainability roadmap is intended to support and guide the broadcasting sector on its sustainability journey, with ongoing support from the Network and the BAI for organisations to develop their own sustainability plan. Based on the United Nation’s Sustainability Development Goals, the roadmap is framed by the 10 SDGs of most relevance to the broadcasting sector. The roadmap has three pillars representing the three dimensions of sustainability: environment (green), social (inclusive) and economic (resilient). Each pillar contains three focus areas, which are accompanied by a set of recommended actions and key metrics to help to track and measure impact. Underpinning the three pillars is a cross-cutting theme around good governance and reporting.

Commenting, chief executive of the BAI, Michael O’Keeffe said: “The Broadcasting Sustainability Network was established to inspire the Irish broadcasting sector to leverage their resources and talent to advance the SDGs. It brings together broadcasters in the community, commercial and public broadcasting sectors and is an example of an initiative that allows members to work together to address the sustainable development responsibilities of each sector.

“Irish broadcasters have an opportunity to play a unique role in the promotion of the SDGs and in shaping a sustainable future, both within their own organisations, and through their content and programming. The BAI is committed to working with broadcasters to support the achievement of greater sustainability and I am confident that the broadcasting sector has the ingenuity, creativity and resolve to deliver on the ambitions set out in the roadmap.”

The Network and roadmap were launched by Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, Catherine Martin TD. She said: “The launch of the Broadcasting Sustainability Network and the sectoral sustainability roadmap is both exciting and encouraging. It is particularly encouraging to see the Sustainable Development Goals being adopted by the sector in this way, allowing it to achieve its own targets in a structured way and contribute to Ireland’s progress towards achieving the goals. By implementing the Sustainable Development Goals, broadcasters have a unique opportunity to create significant and meaningful changes by addressing key challenges such as gender inequality, climate change, and human rights. These changes have the potential to not only improve their own workplace but also positively influence society via their programming. In what has been a very challenging year for the sector, I welcome the roadmap’s strong emphasis on communicating success and look forward to seeing the positive impact achieved by the Network as it develops.”

Further information can be found here.

ENDS

Contact: Thelma Harris/ Joanne Ahern, DHR Communications, Tel: 083-0517622 / 087-9881837.

Notes to editors:

  • A representative from the BAI is available for interview.
  • Members of the steering group created to support the development of the network comprise representatives from: the BAI; RTÉ; TG4; Wireless Ltd; Communicorp; Craol; Flirt FM; Beat FM; Screen Producers Ireland; Screen Ireland; the Radio Kerry Group; and South East Radio.
  • The Sustainable Development Goals are the United Nations’ blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all. They address global challenges such as poverty, inequality, climate change, environmental degradation, peace, and justice. Details of the United Nation’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals can be found here. The 10 SDGs prioritised by the Network and roadmap are:
  • Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being.
  • Goal 4: Quality Education.
  • Goal 5: Gender Equality.
  • Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth.
  • Goal 10: Reduced Inequality.
  • Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
  • Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.
  • Goal 13: Climate Action.
  • Goal 16: Peace and Justice Strong Institutions.
  • Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals.