A groundbreaking new research project, JustHousing, is set to investigate the social justice implications of Ireland’s housing retrofitting policies. Funded by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), this three-year initiative began in March 2024 and is led by Dr. Patrick Bresnihan, Dr. Kevin Credit, and Dr. Fiadh Tubridy from MUSSI and the Geography Department at Maynooth University.
As Ireland works toward reducing carbon emissions, the decarbonisation of housing has become a national priority. The government has committed to upgrading the energy performance of 500,000 homes by 2030, aiming not only to cut emissions but also to lower energy costs and improve public health. However, the social implications of retrofitting schemes are less understood—and JustHousing seeks to address these gaps.
The project raises crucial questions:
- Who benefits most from retrofitting schemes, and who is left behind?
- What barriers exist for different groups in accessing these initiatives?
- How do retrofitting policies impact tenants in the private rental sector?
By examining these concerns, JustHousing aims to bridge the gap between climate action and social justice. The research will focus on the lived experiences of tenants in public housing, the private rental sector, and homeowners to better understand the policy, governance, and economic factors influencing retrofitting accessibility.
A key component of JustHousing’s approach is community engagement. The success of the project relies on strong relationships with residents, as well as collaboration with tenant and community groups working to address housing challenges collectively.
For more information about JustHousing, including the communities involved, visit the project’s website. Researchers encourage anyone interested in learning more or sharing their experiences to get in touch.