Empowering communities for a greener Ireland
Environmental Action Alliance – Ireland is an independent environmental law and compliance body led by David Malone, Eurolaw Environmental Consultant. We support communities and environmental groups by identifying breaches of Irish and EU environmental law, preparing complaints and submissions, and promoting effective enforcement, public participation, and access to justice.
Our inspiration: giving a voice to communities
Across Ireland, complex planning systems, large-scale developments, and environmental risks often leave communities feeling overwhelmed and unheard. Many people struggle to challenge decisions or miss opportunities to have their voices counted due to a lack of knowledge or support. This creates a clear need for organisations like Environmental Action Alliance Ireland, which aim to empower individuals and communities by providing guidance, information, and practical support.
By helping people understand their rights and take action, EAA-I works to ensure that local voices are included in environmental decision-making while also promoting stronger protection for the environment. For example, communities affected by proposed developments such as wind farms or industrial projects can benefit from support in making formal submissions or engaging with planning processes more effectively. Overall, this approach is highly effective as it not only addresses immediate community concerns but also fosters long-term environmental stewardship.
What makes us different
Environmental Action Alliance Ireland is different from environmental consultants and other organisations because its main focus is empowering communities rather than providing commercial services or broad policy campaigning.
Firstly, unlike environmental consultants, who are usually hired by developers, companies, or local authorities to produce technical reports and assessments, EAA-I does not operate on a commercial basis. Instead, it focuses on supporting the public and helping communities engage with environmental and planning systems.
Secondly, compared to many environmental NGOs that mainly work on national campaigns or policy advocacy, EAA-I operates at a more local and practical level. It provides direct, step-by-step support to individuals and community groups dealing with real environmental issues in their area.
Thirdly, EAA-I plays an important “bridge” role by translating complex environmental laws and planning processes into clear, understandable guidance, enabling people to participate meaningfully.
Our expertise: led by David Malone
David Malone is a Eurolaw Environmental Consultant with over 35 years of experience working with European Union environmental law in Ireland and before EU institutions. His expertise covers key areas such as the EIA Directive, Habitats Directive, Waste Framework Directive, the Public Participation Directive, and the Aarhus Convention, all of which are central to environmental protection and public rights in Europe.
A significant part of his experience involves working directly with EU enforcement mechanisms, including submitting complaints to the European Commission about Ireland’s compliance with environmental law. These actions have contributed to major infringement proceedings before the Court of Justice of the European Union, demonstrating deep involvement in high-level legal processes.
He has also participated in proceedings before the Aarhus Convention Compliance Committee, including representing EAA-I in Geneva. His work in this area has focused on strengthening public participation in environmental decision-making processes.
"You are not powerless—and there is practical support available to help you understand and act on environmental issues affecting your community."
Environmental Action Alliance - Ireland