It also works to protect Irish caves from damage by human influence, including dumping, quarrying, development, and promotes a strong conservation ethic to cavers.

[2] The SUI publishes a scientific journal, Irish Speleology, and grant aid is often provided by the organisation for international caving expeditions.

[6] Irish Speleology is the official caving journal published by the SUI.

[8] Volume 23 of the journal, subtitled "Selected accounts of Irish caves 1680–1893" and published in October 2017,[9] was nominated for the Tratman award:[10] a literary award issued annually by the Ghar Parau Foundation, subsequently managed by the British Cave Research Association.

[11] The SUI produces a newsletter for members, named Underground, published up to four times per year.