Hi IEN,

Biodiversity Week is over for another year! We had nearly 400 events listed across the country! Our thanks to the IEN members, Biodiversity Officers, and local groups who organised events. There's still lots happening though for the rest of the Summer! Have a look at the events listed for this month below.

If you want to help out from home there are three surveys open at the moment. Also from home, there are two webinar recordings now available. One focuses on the Strategic Policy Committees, the other on responding to consultations and submissions in the Offshore Renewable Energy process. Birdwatch Ireland has also launched a new Birds of Ireland Field Guide app! With such a huge focus on Citizen Science during Biodiversity Week this year the launch of this app is well timed.

All this and lots more below!

Beir bua,

Catherine

Gorey Celebrates Nature

with Successful Biodiversity Bike Ride

The Gorey Pedestrian and Cycling Association hosted a successful Biodiversity Bike Ride as part of the crossover between Bike Week and Biodiversity Week 2025. Under clear, sunny skies, fifteen participants joined the event, which combined a relaxed cycling experience with environmental education.

The ride was led by Natasha Ariff, a biodiversity consultant and member of the Wexford Environmental Network. Cyclists of all ages and abilities took part in the ride through Gorey with opportunities to stop, observe, and listen to Natasha’s insights into the local urban environment, helping participants gain a deeper understanding of the ecosystems around them. The event highlighted the strong connection between sustainable travel and environmental stewardship.

The route began and ended at the park in Gorey. Riders first visited the community Heritage Orchard by the Fire Station, then continued down Main Street, past the Little Theatre, and through the Ramsfort Wood route. Natasha pointed out the biodiversity value of the Heritage Orchard - from the genetic biodiversity of the apples to the value they provide to pollinators and birds. The Plane trees along the Main Street, whilst not really useful for pollinators, provide nest sites for the local birds - the starlings, jackdaws and other corvids. Natasha also pointed out that the ‘Talking Tree’ in TCD is also a (200 year old) Plane tree. The cyclists then enjoyed the leisurely cycle through Ramsford Woods, with the bluebells still in bloom. From there, the group cycled up Scholar’s Walk, where Natasha spoke about the local river system, the River Banoge, and the threat of pollution it faces from new development and failed wastewater infrastructure. The ride concluded back at the park, where, after looking at the newly planted Miyawaki forest, participants enjoyed light refreshments and time to reflect.

“This event was a great way to bring the community together around two things we care deeply about: cycling and biodiversity,” said a spokesperson for the Gorey Pedestrian and Cycling Association.

The Biodiversity Bike Ride was free and open to the public, supported by the Irish Environmental Network and Wexford County Council.

For more information on future events or to get involved with local cycling initiatives, please contact the Gorey Pedestrian and Cycling Association at goreypca@gmail.com or to get involved with local Biodiversity initiatives contact the Wexford Environmental Network at wexforden@gmail.com

Launch of Spin the Wheel Exhibit

Leitrim Environmental Network had a stand at the Leitrim Public Participation Network plenary or meeting of community groups in the Landmark Hotel, Carrick on Shannon on May 15th, and the Leitrim Volunteer Festival in the Ballroom of Romance, Glenfarne on May 29th.

We launched the Spin the Wheel exhibit creatively made by member Mella upcycling an old bicycle wheel. The idea behind the wheel is to have more interaction and engagement with people who may not usually participate in climate discussions, increasing our visibility and creating new connections all the while have some fun. The wheel is spun and lands on a number relating to an environmental question category. If the question is answered correctly, a sustainable prize can be won. We had some prizes of native Irish trees donated by members, book vouchers from the Reading Room bookshop in Carrick.

Newsletter and Calendar of Events

Leitrim Environmental Network updates a calendar of events for Leitrim which features environmental/sustainability related events of interest around the county and for bordering counties - https://calendar.google.com/calendar/u/1?cid=bGVpdHJpbWVuQGdtYWlsLmNvbQ

We also have a newsletter which you can subscribe to here - http://eepurl.com/iHjikM

For all Leitrim Environmental Network activities, follow us on our social media accounts:

· Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/LeitrimLEN

· Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/leitrimenvironmentalnetwork/

JUNE EVENTS

Irish Forest School Association 7th Annual Gathering and AGM 2025

June 6th - 8th

Clare

Bookings are coming in fast and furious for the upcoming Irish Forest School Association Annual Gathering in Common Knowledge, Co Clare on June 6th - 8th 2025. Thanks to all of you who have booked so far!

This gathering is open to all adults over 18 - you don't have to be a Forest School leader. It's a great way to meet those involved in the fast-growing Forest School community in Ireland and have some fun.

All the information that you need to book is at this link  https://buytickets.at/irishforestschoolassociation1/1664269

Webinar: Falling Through the Cracks? How Policies & Pathways Can Better Support Ireland’s Local Food Producers

June 10th, 8pm

Online

Talamh Beo, Cultivate and Feasta invite IEN members to join our upcoming webinar: Falling Through the Cracks? How Policies & Pathways Can Better Support Ireland’s Local Food Producers.

Join this important Feeding Ourselves webinar that asks: what would it take for local food producers to finally get the support they deserve?

Despite growing interest in sustainable food, Ireland’s local food economies remain largely invisible in national agri-food strategies. This session will explore why that is—and how we can change it.

Jo Poulton of the Landworkers’ Alliance (UK) will share insights from the Basic Income for Farmers (BI4Farmers) campaign. Whether you're a farmer, activist, policymaker, researcher or simply curious - this is your invitation to help shape a fairer, more sustainable food future.

Webinar | Tuesday 10th June | 20:00 - 21:30

Register at this link or scan the QR code

Strengthening Local Food Economies is a two-year action research and advocacy project led by Feasta, Talamh Beo, and Cultivate, with support from the IEN. It focuses on promoting policies that support local food producers and enhance the economic viability of local food systems in Ireland.

Wicklow Climate Café

June 14th, 10am - 1pm

Wicklow

Interested in the climate and environmental issues? Want to make your voice heard?

Join Concern Worldwide, Wicklow PPN and the West Wicklow Environmental Network for a friendly and welcoming Climate Café on Saturday, 14th June.

From education to food to taking action, we'll be discussing all these topics and more through a climate lens. Please join us for this free event.

Book your place here

Free Repair Café at the Rediscovery Centre

June 14th, 10am - 4pm

Dublin

Got something in need of repair? Bring your broken bikes, furniture or textiles on 14th June and learn to fix them with our experts!

Reserve your place here

Live Stranding Response Training Courses

June, July, August

Multiple locations

The Irish Whale and Dolphin Group is running Live Stranding Response Training Courses to train new volunteers and refresh the skills of existing responders across some of Ireland’s coastal counties this summer 2025 in how to deal with live stranded cetaceans (dolphins, porpoises or whales).

We are now accepting bookings for all Live Stranding Courses this summer here: https://iwdg.ie/live-stranding-training-2025/

📍 Kerry (Ballybunion) – Sunday 10th August

📍 Galway (Salthill) – Saturday 9th August

📍 Mayo (Kilcummin Harbour) – Saturday 5th July

📍 Louth (Blackrock) – Saturday 14th June

GIY x Blasta Books: A Bold New Collaboration – Now Booking

June 27th with more events over the coming months

Waterford

Something delicious is brewing at GROW HQ! GIY has teamed up with the trailblazing Blasta Books to launch a brand-new series that brings together food, flavour, and sustainability in six unmissable live events—now open for booking. The next event is June 27th.

Each event takes on a book club vibe, hosted by some of Ireland’s most exciting and boundary-pushing chefs and food creatives, including:

🍛 Richie Castillo + Alex O’Neill (Masarap)

 ♻️ Conor Spacey (Wasted)

 Orla McAndrew (Larder)

 🌮 Lily Ramirez-Foran (Tacos)

🔥 Facundo Rodulfo and Pam Neumann (Tango)

 🌱 Caitlin Ruth (Funky)

Guests will enjoy intimate evenings filled with conversation, creativity, and of course—incredible food. Each event explores the themes and stories behind a Blasta Book, with tastings of dishes featured in or inspired by the book itself.

📍 Hosted at GROW HQ, Waterford

 📆 Six events over the coming months

 🎟️ Tickets are now live and can be booked here https://shop.giy.ie/collections/blasta-series

Join GIY, GROW HQ, and Blasta Books in celebrating sustainable eating, storytelling, and the power of sharing a good meal.

Book today — these tickets will go fast!

AUGUST & FUTURE EVENTS

Earth Activism and Social Permaculture Training

with Starhawk and Alfred Decker

August 19th - 22nd

Slieve Aughty Centre, Galway

The Centre for Environmental Living and Training (CELT) in partnership with Cultivate, Cloughjordan, are delighted to offer this unique and inspiring 4 day workshop and bring together earth activists, change makers, rebels and dreamers to share some time in nature, strengthen our connections, and deepen our creative vision.

Facilitated by international guests Starhawk and Alfred Decker, with a local contribution from Davie Philip of the Cultivate Cooperative (Cloughjordan), this special gathering will take you on a journey of transformation, regenerating inner and outer landscapes.

We will explore how an understanding of ecology and the principles of permaculture can infuse our activism, including how to structure groups and organizations that can meet our core human needs, while also sharing key tools for staying calm, grounded and present during moments of chaos and challenge.

To book your place please visit -

https://www.celtnet.org/events/earth-activism-and-social-permaculture-with-starhawk-and-alfred-decker

All Ireland Permaculture Gathering

Sat, 23 - Sunday 24th August 

Slieve Aughty Center, Loughrea, Galway

CELT are delighted to be once again supporting the All Ireland Permaculture gathering returning to the Slieve Aughty Centre in Co. Galway this year -

To book your place visit permaculture.ie

For more information please visit -

https://www.celtnet.org/events/permaculture-gathering-2025

Weekend Whale Watching Courses 2025

Looking for a weekend with a difference? Why not join the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group (IWDG) www.iwdg.ie, Ireland’s leading marine conservation NGO, on a weekend whale-watching course in West Cork during summer 2025.

In taking part, you will also be actively supporting whale and dolphin conservation and research in Ireland. Our 2025 residential weekends are once again based at the CECAS centre, Leap, West Cork www.cecas.ie, and combine a relaxed learning experience at this former retreat, providing a unique opportunity to learn more about the 26 species of whales, dolphins and porpoises, that can be found in Irish waters.

Suitable from ages of 18 years upwards, our courses cater for all levels of interest, from the complete novice to the wildlife enthusiast who’d like to learn more about Ireland’s cetaceans, how to find and identify them, IWDG’s recording schemes and how you as Citizen Scientists, can contribute to their conservation and the latest research.

Bookings link for Sept. 12-14th Course:

https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/residential-iwdg-weekend-whale-watching-species-id-course-in-west-cork-tickets-1227752373399?aff=oddtdtcreator

Enquiries or further details, email padraig.whooley@iwdg.ie , Ph. 00 353 (0)86 3850568

Two fantastic courses for the wildlife rehabilitation community coming this autumn as part of Wildlife Rehabilitation Irelands 2025 educational programme.

October & November

Introduction to Wildlife Rehabilitation Course - Oct 11th & 12th - Meath - More info

Advanced Wildlife Veterinary Treatment Course - Nov 22nd & 23rd - Tipperary - More info

Birds of Ireland Field Guide: introducing BirdWatch Ireland's new app!

BirdWatch Ireland is delighted to announce the launch of its first ever app! Birds of Ireland Field Guide is available both on the Apple App Store for iOS and on the Google Play Store for Android.

Produced by renowned developer Sunbird Images, we are very proud of this new app, which is a truly comprehensive guide to all of the 492 bird species ever recorded in Ireland. All regularly occurring Irish bird species are included in the free version, while over 260 additional rare vagrant species can be unlocked with an annual subscription.

The free version of the app includes:

 - High-quality identification plates for all regularly occurring Irish bird species

 - In-depth species profiles (habitat, behaviour, status & more)

 - Bird names in 20 languages (including Irish)

 - Manual ID tool

 - ‘Similar species’ tool

 - Side-by-side comparison of up to 8 species (up to 16 on tablets)

 - European range maps

 - The ability to create and export lists of personal sightings

You can also choose to unlock the app’s full potential with optional premium paid features:

 - Use cutting-edge AI to identify birds by sound or photo – automatically and instantly

 - Access over 1,140 bird calls and songs, plus video clips showcasing typical behaviour

 - Explore lifelike 3D bird models and view species life-sized in your environment using Augmented Reality

The Bird Bundle Ireland add-on also includes egg images for all native breeding birds and custom-made Irish distribution maps

Apple App Store link for iOS: https://apps.apple.com/ie/app/birds-of-ireland-field-guide/id6743699372

Google Play Store link for Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.sunbirdimages.birds_ie_gold&hl=en

SPC Webinar Recording Now Available

We are joined by Councillor Dermot ‘Daisy’ O’Brien, who will share his wealth of experience and insight into the Strategic Policy Committees (SPCs). Learn tips and tricks on how to shape your input to be impactful during an SPC meeting.

This session will benefit anyone who is serving on an SPC, whether you are new to the role or have been on an SPC for some time.

Watch Recording Here

Webinar: Responding to consultations and making submissions in the ORE process

Recording Now Available

The webinar aimed to introduce attendees to the process of consultations and response submissions at different stages of the offshore renewable development process in Ireland, from legislation drafts to developer planning applications. We hope that those watching can feel more empowered to contribute to development of Offshore Renewable Energy process, and have the practical tools and knowledge to do so.

Watch Recording Here

Survey on repair, maintenance, and decommissioning of Renewable Energy Infrastructure;

The Rediscovery Centre and DCU History and Geography are collaborating on a new project fended by Research Ireland to map and engage with stakeholders in the Renewable Energy sector. The key objective for this project is to explore the labour, processes, and potentials associated with the repair, decommissioning, and material recovery of renewable energy infrastructures – particularly wind and solar.

Please respond to our survey here if you are interested or knowledgeable in this space.

National Recycling Bin Survey is back!

In 2023, VOICE Ireland led the first National Recycling Bin Survey (NRBS), a citizen-led piece of research involving 130 participants across 12 counties. With this survey we took a deep dive into what’s really ending up in our recycling bins, but also attributing this waste to specific retail sectors. Together, these households catalogued over 10,000 individual items – and what we found was eye-opening. 

Plastic made up 50% of the average Irish recycling bin, and supermarkets were responsible for two-thirds of all packaging waste. That means the problem isn’t just individual behaviour – it’s what’s being put on our shelves in the first place. 

This year, we're back for Edition Two – and we're calling on households across the country to take part.

The goals of the Survey 

The National Recycling Bin Survey is a citizen-led research project unlike anything else in Ireland. It asks simple but powerful questions: What’s in your recycling bin – and where did it come from? 

By collecting this information, we’re doing two things: 

• Shifting the blame: For too long, the focus of waste reduction has been on consumer behaviour. But what if we looked further upstream? This survey flips the script and looks at the source of packaging waste – retailers and producers – so we can push for changes that actually reduce waste at the design and distribution stages. 
• Informing evolutions for better policies: Since the first NRBS, new policies like the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) have launched in Ireland, and the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) is bringing in new rules across Europe. These changes are a step in the right direction – but without independent, citizen-led data, it’s hard to measure their real impact or make the case for going further. 

By joining the National Recycling Bin Survey, you will contribute to an important environmental database in the country. You’ll: 

• Count and record the packaging in your household’s recycling bin 
• Note where items came from (supermarkets, takeaways, etc.) 
• Reflect on your own consumption – and maybe even be surprised by it! 

It’s a small commitment but can have a big impact.

Here is the link for people to sign up:

👉 https://airtable.com/app7scgaRPSylaNEd/pagt5cDAY6irIHVh0/form

Don’t worry, we’ll provide you with all the instruction you need to take part easily – no science degree required. 

Bonus: Anyone who signs-in will automatically enter our Recycling Bin Survey competition to win one of five 100€ One4All gift voucher.

More info here

Survey on Regional Action/Activism

The Irish Ocean Literacy Network (IOLN) Regional Action and Activism Working Group is inviting environmental groups to participate in a short survey aimed at understanding the types of ocean activism/activities across the island of Ireland, and identifying the common themes and motivations among groups. How do you get involved in working for our oceans, and what drives you to do this? And also - how can the IOLN support and build capacity for your group?

Our goal is to use this information to support coastal communities in strengthening their knowledge, awareness and engagement with the ocean.

If you could spare a few minutes (10 at the most!) to fill in this survey, or to pass it on to others, we'd be very grateful.

Irish Ocean Literacy Network activism survey

The survey closes on the 23rd of June.

Leave No Trace Ireland Launches “Love This Place” 2025 Campaign to Protect Ireland’s Outdoors

Leave No Trace Ireland launched its annual “Love This Place” campaign, calling on the public to come together to protect Ireland’s rich natural landscapes, so we can all enjoy them responsibly as we head into the summer season. Now in its fifth year, the national awareness campaign is supported by partners including the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, the Office of Public Works, Coillte, Sport Ireland, Waterways Ireland, Wicklow Co Council, Galway Co Council, Clare Co Council & Cork City Council – all dedicated to promoting responsible outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship.

With more people than ever seeking connection with nature – through hiking, swimming, dog-walking and exploring – this year’s “Love This Place” campaign reinforces the simple message: “If you love this place, leave no trace.”

The Need for Protection

Ireland’s great outdoors has seen a sharp rise in popularity in recent years, with over 98%* of residents valuing time spent in nature. However, increased footfall has also brought challenges: trail erosion, littering, dog fouling, wildlife disturbance, and an increase in wildfires – 96%** of which are linked to human activity.

“Our message is clear,” said Maura Kiely, CEO of Leave No Trace Ireland, “We all have a part to play in preserving the places and wildlife we love. This campaign invites everyone enjoying the outdoors this summer, from seasoned hikers to dog owners, to take simple, mindful steps to protect our natural landscapes.”

Campaign Highlights

Throughout the summer, “Love This Place” will roll out:

A digital storytelling campaign featuring voices from across Ireland: farmers, walkers, dog owners, and community groups.

On-the-ground events and clean-up days coordinated with local authorities and environmental groups.

Education initiatives and social media toolkits for influencers, schools, and tourism partners.

Taking Action

The “Love This Place” 2025 campaign shares three tangible actions for the public to take:

Be responsible with your dog – Keep dogs on a lead, especially around farm animals and wildlife, and always clean up after them.

Protect Wildlife and wild places – Bring all litter home, don’t feed wild animals, and watch wildlife from a safe distance.

Stay on the path – Stick to marked trails to avoid damaging habitats or disturbing animals, both seen and unseen.

A Shared Responsibility

“Our land is not just scenic – it’s living,” added Kiely. “It feeds us, shelters biodiversity, and connects our communities. Respecting it is not about restriction, but about care and responsibility. We’re so grateful to the public and our partners for supporting “Love This Place” – we ask everyone to take action and join the

To learn more or get involved, visit: www.leavenotraceireland.org/love-this-place

📢Leave No Trace Ireland Shortlisted for Prestigious 2025 Irish Sport Industry Award 

 Leave No Trace Ireland is honoured to be named a finalist in the 2025 Irish Sport Industry Awards, hosted by the Federation of Irish Sport. 

Leave No Trace Ireland have been shortlisted in the ‘Best Use of Communications Platforms in Sport’ category for the national campaign, Love This Place—a compelling initiative that blends storytelling, education, and collaboration to inspire responsible outdoor recreation across Ireland. The awards shortlist also features renowned sports organisations such as the IRFU, Athletics Ireland, and the Football Association of Ireland.

Launched during the pandemic to address the surge in outdoor activity, Love This Place has since evolved into a significant public awareness campaign, encouraging millions to enjoy Ireland’s natural beauty—while helping to care for it. 

Developed in partnership with Sport Ireland, the National Parks and Wildlife Service, Fáilte Ireland, Coillte, Waterways Ireland, and the Office of Public Works (OPW), the campaign has resonated deeply with outdoor enthusiasts nationwide. Since its inception, it has grown to garner widespread support from local authorities, various agencies, and the public.

“We’re incredibly proud that Love This Place has received recognition on a national level,” said Maura Kiely, CEO of Leave No Trace Ireland. “This campaign goes beyond just messaging—it’s about changing behaviours, fostering community, and safeguarding the wild places we cherish. It’s a testament to the power of collaboration in driving meaningful environmental action.”

You can read more about this here

Leave No Trace is first social enterprise in Ireland to secure People & Planet Verification

Leave No Trace Ireland is proud to announce that it has become one of the first social enterprises in the country to achieve People & Planet First Verification, a globally recognised mark that celebrates organisations placing social and environmental impact at the heart of their mission.

The People & Planet First verification is adopted in over 130 countries and sets a global benchmark for what it means to be a purpose-driven social enterprise. The mark highlights organisations that prioritise the wellbeing of people and the planet over the pursuit of profit.

The verification is based on five key standards:

✅ Purpose: Solving a social and/or environmental problem is at the core of our work.

✅ Operations: Decisions are driven by purpose, people, and planet—not profit.

✅ Revenue: We operate a self-sustaining business model.

✅ Use of Surplus: The majority of any surplus is reinvested in our mission.

✅ Structure: Our legal and financial framework protects our long-term purpose.

By meeting these rigorous standards, Leave No Trace Ireland joins a growing global movement of verified social enterprises committed to positive change.

To learn more about the People & Planet First Verification, visit https://www.socialenterprise.ie/

BirdWatch Ireland appoints a new permanent Chief Executive

BirdWatch Ireland appoints Dr Andrew Kelly as its new Chief Executive. Andrew has a strong background of senior leadership in a range of organisations, most recently including seven years as Chief Executive of the ISPCA and three years as Director of the UK-based animal protection charity Freedom for Animals. Andrew will join the organisation at the beginning of June and will replace Linda Lennon, who has successfully steered the organisation over the course of the last three years.

Powerscourt "Working with Nature Awards" launched before Earth Day.

The Powerscourt “Working with Nature Awards” recognises and celebrates people (especially community groups), small businesses and community projects across the island of Ireland who have contributed and are committed in any way to protecting & restoring nature.

The awards will recognise nature protectors all over Ireland who are having impact across four (4) selected award categories including Pollinators, Biodiversity & Rewilding, Nature Media and Nature Education & Wellbeing. The nominations are open now for 8 weeks online on our website.

Éanna Ní Lamhna, Duncan Stewart and Alex Slazenger (Head Gardener at Powerscourt Estate) are all judges for the awards. The closing date for nominations is the 6th of June with the short list announced on the 9th of June and the awards ceremony taking place on Thursday the 26th of June at Powerscourt House. 

Www.powerscourt.com/workingwithnature 

Colour to Communities Paint Giveaway 2025

The Paint Reuse Network of Ireland is delighted to announce that our paint giveaway is now open!

Does a community space near you need some TLC?

Our Colour to Community paint giveaway brightens community spaces while reducing waste. We're thrilled to offer this opportunity for community groups and organisations to win free paint.

If you’ve got a community space in mind and a design up your sleeve, simply enter for a chance to win high-quality, water based, reused paint and stop it from going to waste.

More information available here

Irish Seed Savers

Irish Seed Savers are Ireland’s leading NGO working for the conservation of plant genetic resources for food and agriculture. Our vital work is conserving Ireland’s heritage food crops – open pollinated seed and apple trees – and contributing to sustainable food systems through a range of interventions including training, education and public awareness. Along with our dedicated conservation work, we operate as a social enterprise, producing Irish heritage apple trees and organic open-pollinated seed for sale, ensuring the organisation’s financial viability while practicing conservation through use.

We are currently seeking exceptional individuals for the following roles:

Fundraising and Communications Manager - https://irishseedsavers.ie/2025/05/16/join-issa-as-our-new-fundraising-and-communications-manager/

Marketing and Communications Intern (Paid) - https://irishseedsavers.ie/2025/05/16/join-our-team-as-a-communications-marketing-intern/

Deadline for both positions is June 6th

Irish Environmental Network

Finance and Reporting Assistant

The Finance and Reporting Assistant will play a crucial role in supporting the following processes: financial planning; monitoring expenditure; budgeting; issuing payments and updating our internal financial systems. Responsibilities will also include assisting with financial reporting.

This role will sit within the Fair Seas project team. The majority of working hours will be allocated to the Fair Seas project, while other IEN projects and initiatives will also be supported by the role.

Deadline June 4th

More info here