University of Limerick set to extend research into climate and flooding

THE University of Limerick and Intact Insurance Ireland have entered a new partnership to advance research on climate, flooding, and natural-catastrophe resilience.
Under the partnership, Intact Insurance Ireland will support a four-year research programme delivered by UL’s Centre for Emerging Risk Studies (CERS).
The project will examine how Ireland can better anticipate and respond to climate-driven flood risk - drawing on new approaches to risk modelling, public - private risk-sharing, and data-informed policy development.
Co-funded by Co-Centre for Climate, Biodiversity and Water, the initiative connects leading climate scientists with CERS researchers to support practical, evidence-based solutions for communities, insurers, and policymakers.

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Research is already underway, exploring how Ireland - particularly flood-vulnerable regions - can strengthen resilience, improve responses to severe weather, and better protect homes, businesses, and communities. The findings will directly inform industry practice and shape future customer-support models.
Dr Barry Sheehan, head of UL's Department of Accounting and Finance, welcomed the initiative for its role in strengthening Ireland's capability in emerging-risk research.
“This partnership strengthens Ireland’s capability in climate-risk research and supports the development of innovative insurance solutions that keep communities insurable and economically viable in a changing climate,” he outlined.
Amanda Johnson, Intact Insurance Ireland Chief People Climate and Corporate Affairs Officer said: “This partnership aligns with Intact Insurance Ireland’s commitment to building climate and economic resilience for vulnerable communities in the face of climate change.
"By supporting cutting-edge, data-driven research with the University of Limerick, we will focus on disaster risk pricing, insurance innovation, public-private partnerships, and technology integration in relation to climate-related catastrophes. This collaboration reflects our focus on protecting businesses and communities across Ireland through insights that will help shape the future of sustainable insurance."