Green lining to Irish recession

Ireland's recession has brought joblessness, bankruptcy and poverty - and cleaned up the air.

Ireland's Environmental Protection Agency says in a new report that the country's emission of greenhouse gases last year experienced the greatest plunge in recorded history.

The 8 per cent fall to 62.3 million tons was the first decline since 1989 and, according to the researchers, reflects the country's drastic slowdown in economic activity. Slumping Irish businesses consumed less fossil fuel in 2009 and reduced emissions 20 per cent.