Barriers and enablers of environmental volunteerism in Ireland

Findings from in-depth interviews with Sustainable Energy Community members

Behavioural Insights for Policy series: Primary research

Year: 2025

Topic: Communities and participation in the energy transition

Methodology: Interviews

Author: SEAI Behavioural Economics Unit

Summary

Community organisations have the potential to accelerate the energy transition by developing grassroots support, particularly where top-down approaches might be met with resistance. However, motivating and sustaining voluntary participation in these organisations remains a challenge. Understanding what motivates people to engage in environmental volunteerism and what factors lead to disengagement can inform programme design and improve volunteer participation and retention. 

This report draws on insights from thematic analysis of 24 in-depth interviews with Sustainable Energy Community (SEC) volunteers and one consultant that works with SECs to deliver energy master plans. It provides detailed insight into the barriers and enablers of environmental volunteerism in Ireland, which the Irish Government can use to empower the growing number of SECs and other community organisations in Ireland.