April

Creating a quiet environment

30/04/2012

Do you know someone who is doing something to create a healthy soundscape in your working environment, neighbourhood or municipality—implementing innovative solutions to noise problems or creating quiet green areas where the sounds of birds and bees can be enjoyed? If so, encourage them to apply for the European Soundscape Award 2012 which is open for submission from 25 April, the International Noise Awareness Day.

Across Europe, at least 100 million people are exposed to damaging levels of noise from road traffic alone. Exposure to unwanted noise can cause stress and interfere with basic activities such as sleep and study. Prolonged exposure can also trigger illnesses as serious as hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Giving people the opportunity to enjoy greater access to quiet, natural areas can on the other hand improve mental and physical health.

The European Environment Agency (EEA) and the Noise Abatement Society (NAS) want to raise awareness about the importance of a healthy soundscape and to reward European initiatives in the field of noise control or soundscape management. Any product, campaign, innovation or scheme offering a creative solution to a noise problem can be nominated for the award. The award will be presented at a ceremony in London on 6 November 2012.

For more information on how to submit an application, visit the European Soundscape Award webpage. The deadline for applications is 7 September 2012.

Source: EEA

That Bloomin’ Burren

30/04/2012

The Burren in May hosts one of Ireland’s best kept treasures – the arrival of a range of wildflowers that paint the landscape and is unrivalled in the rest of the country. The ‘Burren in Bloom’ festival is a celebration of this, opening the magic of this landscape to all.

Running throughout the month of May, Burren in Bloom will hold over 40 talks, walks and events for all age groups which are sure to enhance your appreciation for the unique Burren landscape. The events cover a wide range of topics from birds at dawn to coastal flowers, the geology of railways to a trip down set set-dancing lane.

For the outdoor enthusiasts there are twelve walks throughout the month, including subjects covering history, wildflowers, bumblebees and butterflies, while the early risers can enjoy a champagne breakfast after a dawn chorus walk led by Gordon D’Arcy on the 6th of May. The talks schedule is equally full and includes the story of the X-PO community project in Kilnaboy, a discussion on children’s diminishing link with nature and the intriguingly titled ‘The Burren: saviour of the planet and civilisation?’ delivered by Ray Woods, of Plantlife, Wales.

Families that want to get out and discover the natural world will not be disappointed by the selection of activities on offer. With everyone being encouraged to get active and spend more time outdoors, the festival provides the perfect opportunity to do so with nature games and exciting bug hunts.

No festival is complete without a book launchch to mark it, and Zoe Devlin’s new book, ‘A Personal Record: Wildflowers of Ireland’ is very apt. This beautiful book is Zoë’s own record of wildflowers in Ireland and is filled with striking photos and interesting facts. The launch takes place on the 27th May and the book will be available to purchase throughout the festival.

The Clare Burren Marathon Challenge on Saturday, May 26th is hosted by the Ballyvaughan Fanore Walking Club and will cater for those of a competitive nature, while also being open to families to take a leisurely stroll through the landscape.

The Burren in Bloom Festival is run in association with the Ballyvaughan Community Development Group, Burren College of Art and the Burrenbeo Trust. The festival runs from the 4th of May to the 1st of June. To download the festival brochure visit www.burreninbloom.com and for more information contact trust@burrenbeo.com or 091 638096.

Source: Irish Press Releases

Top marks for 3rd level colleges as IBAL launches 2012 Litter League

27/04/2012

Nearly all of Ireland’s 3rd level colleges are now litter-free and a model for other public places to follow, according to a litter survey by Irish Business Against Litter (IBAL). Launching its 2012 litter league at Trinity College Dublin, IBAL said those in charge of keeping clean public amenities like hospitals, train stations and shopping centres should look to the performance of 3rd level campuses. 17 of 21 colleges surveyed were deemed litter-free, with only DIT Kevin Street branded as heavily littered.

As part of the 2012 Anti-Litter League, 42 towns and cities will be assessed for litter over the course of the year. Last year over 70% of participating areas were judged to be Clean to European Norms, with Trim the cleanest town in the country. Dublin City, however, remained ‘littered’, and the North Inner City was deemed a litter blackspot.

Dog fouling and gum will be major points of emphasis for IBAL in the 2012 programme. “Dog fouling in particular has become a high profile issue in the past year,“ explains Dr Cavanagh. “We’re receiving lots of feedback from members of the public abhorred by dog fouling on pavements. We know some authorities are giving out free scoopers and even dog nappies are being considered by others. Alongside gum, people are understandably intolerant of this insidious
and unhygienic form of litter.”

Following on the success of the colleges survey, IBAL will be assessing train and bus stations and schools as part of the 2012 league.

A new development to the IBAL programme will be a Business Achievement award. This will acknowledge the contribution of a chamber of commerce, traders’ association or shop owner to a litter-free environment, be it in adopting a particular road, voluntarily cleaning a main street, etc.

Source: IBAL

Science for Environment Policy issue 281 now available online

27/04/2012

Science for Environment Policy issue 281 is now available online. Articles include:

• Carbon storage of urban space estimated
   
• New sound insulation maps developed to aid noise reduction
   
• Less 'charismatic' species should not be forgotten in conservation
   
• Public's political attitudes to environment are complex, says study
   
• Farmers evaluate measures to reduce soil erosion and water pollution
   
• Improved management of phosphorus needed to conserve resources

NUIG Squirrel Distribution Survey 2011 - 2014

26/04/2012

The Mammal Ecology Group at NUI Galway is conducting a study of red and grey squirrel distribution in Ireland. If you have observed either of these animals in recent years, even dead animals on the roadside, the mammal ecology research department would like to hear from you. The online survey form can be completed at www.woodlandmammals.com. Alternatively you can contact Margaret Flaherty, Mammal Ecology Group, Martin Ryan Institute, NUI Galway. Phone: 091 492903

Bord Gáis to inject €400m into wind-farm portfolio

26/04/2012

Bord Gáis Energy (BGE) is planning to inject €400m into its wind-farm portfolio, as the company is aiming to develop a further 250MW of wind energy over the next three years, Energy Minister Pat Rabbitte has announced.

The Irish Government is aiming to have 40pc of electricity produced by renewables by 2020.

Source: Silicon Republic

Pioneering company, EGPT, scoops the 2012 Sustainable Energy Innovation Award

26/04/2012

A pioneering new system that saves the waste of natural gas as it is transported via pipeline and transforms it into electricity that can be put back into the grid, was crowned the overall winner of the Sustainable Energy Innovation Award. EGPT Ltd, who picked up the Award at the second day of the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland’s (SEAI) Energy Show at the RDS (March 2012), was set up in 2009 by Dr Paul Sikora to develop an efficient gas depressurisation system via the Expanding Gas Power Transformation (EGPT) process. The system also negates the need to burn gas for heating.

EGPT Ltd beat tough competition from companies including AERIAQ Filtration Ltd, Climote, Ecoscan Ltd, Road Recycling Ireland and Terawatt Ireland for its innovation, energy performance and environmental impact and the business potential of EGPT system. Each of the six finalists had to pitch their product to a ‘dragons’ den’ style panel of four judges in an open forum at the Energy Show.

The Sustainable Energy Innovation Award winners will receive financial support towards their business development costs.

Source: SEAI

Ireland and UK sign Marine Research Agreement

25/04/2012

Dr Peter Heffernan CEO, Marine Institute, and Prof Ian Wright, Deputy Director, Science and Technology, National Oceanography Centre (UK) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), yesterday (24th April), in the presence of the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Simon Coveney, TD, to foster closer co-operation and joint activities between Ireland and the UK in the area of marine research, development and innovation.

Co-operation planned is strategic and will reflect areas of mutual interest including: hydrography, seafloor and habitat mapping of the Atlantic; the development of fixed point ocean observatories; sensor development and associated platforms, and knowledge transfer and policy advice.

The Marine Institute and the National Oceanography Centre have already co-operated, in association with National Geographic TV, University College Cork (UCC), the National University of Ireland, Galway (NUIG), the Geological Survey of Ireland (GSI) and the University of Southampton, in the 2011 VenTURE Survey which discovered a new hydrothermal vent field on the mid-Atlantic ridge.

Source: Marine Institute

New Practical Guide to EU Funding Opportunities for Research and Innovation

25/04/2012

This new edition of the "Practical Guide to EU Funding Opportunities for Research and Innovation" (pdf) includes a full up-to-date picture of the sources of funding described in the initial Guide, published in 2008.

The European Union possesses five key funding opportunities to support research and innovation:

• the Research Framework Programme,
• the Competitiveness and Innovation Framework Programme,
• the Structural Funds and the Cohesion Fund within the Cohesion policy;
• the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development and
• the European Fisheries Fund within the Rural development policy and the Common Fisheries Policy

This new edition includes a full up-to-date picture of the three sources of funding described in the initial Guide (7th Research Framework Programme, Competitiveness and Innovation Framework Programme and Structural Funds) completed by information on the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development and on the European Fisheries Fund.

It also focuses on additional funding opportunities in the field of research and innovation. It includes information on the Lifelong learning programme and international cooperation in the field of education and on LIFE + in the field of the environment. It also describes the research and innovation funding opportunities offered to countries and territories beyond the European Union, in the framework of Pre-accession Assistance and within the European Neighbourhood and Partnership Instrument.

This new Guide provides potential recipients of EU funding for research and innovation with the practical information they need to access this funding. It also provides decision-makers with a full picture of all the funding opportunities available until 2013.

This new edition is available for download as a PDF, or as an interactive website, going through each content section.

Source: CORDIS News

Clare to Bloom again this Summer

24/04/2012

Local community groups across the County are being urged to participate in the 2012 ‘Clare in Bloom’ competition this summer.

‘Clare In Bloom’ adjudication occurs from mid-June to mid-August and considers such factors as colour, size, variety, location and appropriateness of the various planting schemes along with the management of litter.

The annual competition is based on three population categories. Category 1 caters for towns and villages with a population in excess of 700, Category 2 applies to population centres of between 300 and 700 people and Category 3 features villages with a population less than 300.

The competition is promoted by Clare County Council and offers a generous prize fund. The initiative is sponsored by ESB Moneypoint, Shannon Development and Roche Ireland with matching funding from the Local Authority.

Commenting on the Clare in Bloom competition, the Mayor of Clare Councillor Pat Hayes stated: “It is great to see so many people volunteering their time to local initiatives and being so actively involved in their communities. This competition rewards that effort and we hope that local groups and communities will participate again this year”.

Communities and groups interested in participating in the ‘2012 Clare in Bloom’ competition can obtain application forms and further information from Clare County Council by contacting the Tourism & Community Development Department at 065 6846428 / 511 or www.clarecoco.ie. The closing date for receipt of applications is 4pm on Thursday, 31st May 2012.

Source: Irish Press Releases

Irish start-up wins €2.8M from EU commission for biorefining project

Source: Irish Government News Service

A showcase of leading Green Irish businesses

23/04/2012

The EPA invites you to a showcase of Irish businesses and organisations that are leading the way in environmental responsibility, resource efficiency and eco-innovation, having taken part in the EPA's business-orientated Cleaner Greener Production Programme (CGPP) and BeGreen scheme.

This event is the perfect opportunity to meet and network with these leading companies, see first-hand their experiences of the CGPP and BeGreen programmes, and hear of the major environmental and economic savings that resulted.

A major new report, summarising the outstanding achievements of the programmes over the last four years, will be launched by Laura Burke, EPA Director General. The report highlights the win-win outcomes for business and the environment, and shows that environmental improvements can form the basis for enhanced competitiveness

For further information, see the Cleaner Production. 

This is a free event, but places are limited. To register for the showcase, please contact Lisa Sheils by 24th April 2012. Email: l.sheils@epa.ie  Tel: 01 –2680100

Source: EPA

2012 National Water Event - Facing New Challenges

23/04/2012

The Environmental Protection Agency invites you to attend the 2012 National Water Event. The title of this year's event is 'Facing New Challenges' and will inform attendees about the new challenges we are facing in Water Quality.

The event will cover a wide range of topics including Drinking Water, Waste Water, Irish Water, Septic Tanks and Diffuse Pollution.

The CPD approved event is unique and offers a one-stop shop to update the skills of those involved in water protection. We encourage all those engaged in water protection and enforcement activities to attend in order to develop a shared understanding as to the challenges of protecting and enhancing our water resources.

The fee for this year's event is €170 inc. VAT for Enforcement Network members and €300 inc. VAT for non-members, which includes lunch both days, and conference dinner on Wednesday 13th June.

To register for this event please complete the registration form and return it to Ms Helen O'Brien, Conference Organiser (refer to details on the registration form) on or before Wednesday 16th May 2012.

Source: EPA

Coláiste Choilm Post Primary School overall winner of Green Awards

20/04/2012

The 2012 Green Awards took place before a packed audience of the top echelon of Ireland’s green business professionals, with Risteard Cooper, of RTÉ's Apres Match, presiding over the glittering awards ceremony.

The awards venue was packed with nearly 600 representatives from all over Ireland present to applaud over 100 finalists across 22 categories as the prestigious trophies were handed out to loud cheers from winners and their guests. Beaten finalists were rewarded with a special parchment to mark their success in reaching the finals.

The awards attracted over 150 entries, with judges commenting on the overall high standards which made choosing the eventual winners all the more difficult. On behalf of our sponsors, congratulations to all our winners and commiserations to those who were not successful this time around.

The overall Green Awards winner was the Department of Education & Skills for Coláiste Choilm Post Primary School. The full list of winners of each category is available on the Green Awards website.

Source: Green Awards

Science for Environment Policy issue 280 now available online

20/04/2012

Science for Environment Policy issue 280 is now available online. Articles Include:

• Positive link between High Nature Value farmland and bird biodiversity
   
• Fukushima's effects on nuclear policy in Germany and the UK
   
• Bioengineered microbes turn seaweed into biofuels
   
• Wind farms: new perspective needed to assess risks to birds
   
• Ensuring bio-based plastics are truly sustainable
   
• Microbes degrade oil from Deepwater Horizon spill

UCD IMAGINE SCIENCE: Film Screening of OCÉANS - April 22nd

19/04/2012

UCD Imagine Science Film Festival and the French Embassy in Ireland in partnership with Veolia Environnement and the UCD Earth Institute will screen the French film OCÉANS on Earth Day, Sunday 22nd April in Meeting House Square, Temple Bar, Dublin 2 at 8.30pm. 

Free tickets are available online.

The spectacular award winning film OCÉANS takes the audience deep into the very waters that sustain all of mankind—exploring the amazing creatures that live within and highlighting the often harsh realities of this world. Featuring spectacular and previously unseen footage captured by the latest underwater technologies OCÉANS puts audiences in the very heart of the action, leaping with dolphins and swimming shoulder-to-fin with the great white shark.

OCÉANS is not a documentary but a wild opera; each diver cameraman creates fragments of the score creating a song of the sea.

A pre-screening panel discussion will take place with the Director Jacques Cluzaud and Scientific Advisor, Dr Francois Sarano along with Irish scientists Professor Chris Bean and Professor Frederic Dias from UCD’s Earth Institute and Charlotte O’Kelly from TechWorks Marine before the film commences at sundown.

The OCÉANS screening is the inaugural event of the UCD Imagine Science Film Festival which is a UCD initiative aimed at bringing science to the public through film and digital media during Dublin City of Science 2012. Professor Des Fitzgerald, Vice-President for Research at UCD says “the science film festival gives the public a unique way to access current and thought- provoking scientific issues in an informal and accessible way. Our objective for the festival is to connect science, research and culture using cinema as the channel for expression.”

Source: UCD Earth Sciences Institute

CIP Eco-innovation Programme National Info Day 2012

19/04/2012

This EU funded initiative bridges the gap between research and the market. It helps good ideas for innovative products, services and processes that protect the environment become fully-fledged commercial prospects, ready for use by business and industry. In doing so the initiative not only helps the EU meet its environmental objectives but also boosts economic growth.

Funding is aimed at SMEs and supports post-research activities in the following areas:

• Materials recycling and recycling processes;
• Sustainable building products;
• Food and drink sector;
• Water efficiency, treatment and distribution;
• Greening business.

Applying for Eco-Innovation funding is a competitive process, and only the best project proposals will be selected for funding. The Information Day 2012 will give you essential information about the initiative as well as advice on how to develop a good project proposal and apply successfully before the next deadline of September 2012.

Places will be on a first come first served basis.

This seminar is free of charge but registration is required. Please see the Enterprise Ireland website for regristration.

Reforming Water Services to Meet Ireland’s Future Economic and Environmental Needs – Hogan

18/04/2012

Irish Water will be an independent state owned subsidiary of Bord Gais Eireann.

No up-front charge for the water metering programme.

In deciding on the establishment of Irish Water, the Government asked that detailed analysis be undertaken as to whether the public utility should be established as a new State agency or under the stewardship of an existing State agency. On foot of this analysis, the Government has yesterday (17 April) agreed to establish Irish Water as an independent State owned subsidiary within the Bord Gáis Eireann (BGE) group.   Irish Water will be established as a wholly owned public water utility and will remain in public ownership.  

Full details are available on the Department of the Envrionment, Community and Local Government website.

Source: Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government

Hogan announces review and public consultation of the smoky coal ban

16/04/2012

Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government, Phil Hogan T.D. today, 12th April, 2012, announced a review and public consultation of the ‘smoky coal ban’ regulations.

The ban on the marketing, sale and distribution of bituminous fuel (or ‘smoky coal ban’) was first introduced in Dublin in 1990 in response to severe episodes of winter smog that resulted from the widespread use of smoky coal for residential heating. The ban proved effective in reducing smoke and sulphur dioxide levels and was subsequently extended to other areas. The ban now applies in twenty cities and towns. Air quality monitoring by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has shown levels of particulate matter (PM10) are lower in these areas than in towns where the ban does not apply.

Research1 indicated that the ban in Dublin resulted in over 350 fewer annual deaths. An estimate of these benefits in monetary terms put the value at over €20 million. Additional benefits of the regulations have also been identified through the stimulation for householders to switch from using solid fuels, which generally are less efficient and more polluting, to more efficient and less polluting gas and oil. The associated reduced fuel costs to consumers were estimated at €184 million per year.

The purpose of the consultation paper is to inform and assist a review of the smoky coal ban regulations to ensure that they remain fit for purpose in safeguarding air quality by limiting harmful emissions of air pollutants arising from the use of residential fuels. The consultation paper reviews the regulations to date and identifies relevant considerations relating to their effective implementation in the context of developments over the twenty years since their introduction.

The consultation paper can be viewed on the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government website. Any person or body wishing to comment on any of the issues raised in the consultation paper is invited to make written submissions. All responses should be made by Thursday, 17th May 2012.

Source: Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government

2nd International conference on the global impact of Energy Management Systems: Creating the right environment for ISO 50001 to thrive

13/14/2012

The final agenda for SEAI’s International Conference ‘Creating the right environment for ISO50001 to thrive’ has been made.

This event, which will take place on 4th May, is focused on the International Energy Management standard ISO 50001. It presents a unique opportunity to hear strategies from international experts on creating the right incentives, the most effective policies, and the best environment to help businesses around the world commit to and benefit from energy management systems.

Not surprisingly, this event is booking fast as it offers a rare chance to hear from such a wide range of different national perspectives. Influential speakers from the US, Europe, India and Australia will present on these important and interesting times for energy management policies and programmes in the light of the introduction of ISO 50001. Our keynote address will be given by Mr Rob Steele, ISO Secretary-General.

A full programme is available on the SEAI website.

Source: SEAI

'Love Where You Live' Photography Competition 2012

12/04/2012

Do you think you have a photograph that shows how much you love where you live and captures how much your local area means to you?

Is it a photograph that candidly captures the sense of purpose and success of your local community clean up or other such event? Is it a photograph of the positive interaction of the people on your street or area? Or is it a photograph that hints at unique aspects of your area and why you love where you live?

If you Love where you Live and have an eye for a good photograph why not enter the An Taisce-Alupro Ireland "Love Where You Live" Photography Competition 2012.

An Taisce -The National Trust for Ireland and Alupro Ireland is sponsoring a national photographic competition – "Love where you Live", aimed at encouraging people to look with fresh eyes at their local environment. The competition has a total prize fund of 2,250 euros.

The closing date for entries is 4pm on 29th June, 2012. Further information about the competition, rules and conditions are available on the Love Where You Live website.

The New Energy Era Forum, May 2012

12/04/2012

The line-up of speakers for the ‘New Energy Era’ forum in early May is complete. The event will take place at Liss Ard Estate, Skibbereen, West Cork. Details of booking are available on the New Era Forum website.

1. Dr. Colin J. Campbell – Changes in World Energy Supplies.

2. Chris Sanders, Sanders Research Associates Ltd..   – Financial Implications for the New Energy Era;

3. Jim    O’Donnell - “Towards a philosophy for the care and maintenance of a small planet”

4. Robin   Challis, Qualitative Research, ‘Whither Consumerism?’ Likely consumer trends over the next decades.

5. Professor   Austin   Darragh - Farewell Petroleum , Hail Carboleum 6. Rob Heyland – ‘the collapse of Capitalism’

7. Professor    Hartmut    Frank, University of Bayreuth, Germany -‘Ethics, Science and Education for the New Era’

8. Dr. Michael Hayes, University of Limerick ‘The lignocellulose of wood , energy crops , and agricultural residues as the sources of chemicals to replace petrochemicals’

9. Daniel Podmirseg , Vienna – ‘JUMP UP! Bite your lips, get up and dance!’ - promising concepts to rebuild local social and economic interdependencies, focusing on urban and vertical farming 10.

10. Professor Gordon Reynolds, The University Of Alaska Fairbanks – The Rise and Fall of Empires due to physical energy supplies.

First Ever Kilrush Biodiversity Week: 23rd-29th April

11/04/2012

Clare County Council has announced details of the first ever Kilrush Biodiversity Week taking place from Monday, 23 April to Sunday, 29 April 2012.

Clare Biodiversity Officer, Shane Casey explained that a full programme of public events will be held on the weekend of April 28-29. There will be an early start on Saturday morning with a Dawn Chorus Walk in Vandeleur Woods at 5:30 AM. A Moth Exhibition and Bug Hunt for children takes place in the Vandeleur Woods from 10:00 AM, followed by a composting demonstration at 1pm and a guided tour of the beautiful Vandeleur Walled Gardens. At 2:30 PM, Kilrush Secondary School will host a Wildlife Gardening Exhibition, while the day will concluded with a late night bat walk in Vandeleur Woods at 9:30 PM.

On Sunday 29 April, the focus will turn to the Shannon Estuary when a discounted price for Dolphin Watching Boat Trips will be available to members of the public (To avail of the offer contact Geraldine on 065 9051327, quoting Kilrush Biodiversity Week). Meanwhile, Inland Fisheries Ireland will be inviting people to enjoy the marine touch pools at on Cappa Pier at 12:00 PM, and participate in a seashore walk from 4pm to discover the abundance of nature along the estuary from seaweed to waders.

According to Shane Casey: “The take home message for Kilrush Biodiversity Weekend is that Biodiversity is not some incomprehensible scientific discipline, but rather the ordinary plants and animals we see outside our windows and on our doorsteps every day. The weekend also comes at an opportune time with the preparation of the Kilrush Development Plan 2014-2020 underway, which will have a significant focus on amenity, biodiversity and green infrastructure.”

Kilrush Biodiversity Week 2012 takes place from Friday, 23 April to Thursday, 29 April. All events are free and family-orientated.
 

Dun Laoghaire awards for environmental innovation launched

11/04/2012

The EnviroCom Awards, which aim to recognise the best examples of energy management, waste prevention, water conservation and environmental innovation by companies, agencies and not-for-profits located or operating in the Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown area, were launched this weekend.

The 2012 EnviroCom Awards are free to enter and applications must be received by Friday 29 June.

The Waste/Water category is supported by WEEE Ireland and has two awards: ‘Best Example of Water Conservation’ and ‘Best Example of Waste Prevention’. The Energy category, which is supported by Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), includes ‘Best Example of Energy Management’ and ‘Best Example of a Transport Initiative’.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) supports the Engaging Communities category, which includes ‘Best Example of Engaging Communities in Environmental Projects’ in two sub-categories (under or over 50 employees/volunteers).

In the Environmental Performance category, supported by Fáilte Ireland, there is an award for ‘Best Example of Overall Environmental Performance’ for the tourism/hospitality sector with fewer than 50 employees and a second award for any sector with more than 50 employees.

The Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Enterprise Board is supporting the Special Merit category, which includes the ‘Special Merit Award for Micro-Enterprises’ and the ‘Best Example of Environmental Innovation’.

Source: Business & Leadership

Warning Issued As Wildfire Season Commences

11/04/2012

Almost one year on from the worst wildfires in the history of the State, officials from Clare’s main farming organisations and Emergency Services have launched an awareness campaign in relation to the dangers posed by illegal burning and forest, bog and gorse fires.

“The highest risk period occurs between March and June, when ground vegetation is dead and dry following the winter period. The current warm spell of weather will do little to reduce this risk,” explained Adrian Kelly, Chief Fire Officer.

Details of the laws in relation to burning, and additional guidance are available on the Clare County Council website.

The advice includes:
 

• Landowners burning gorse, scrub, or vegetation must inform the Fire Service at least one day in advance on 999 or 112 providing details of the location, time and duration of burning.
   
• In addition, landowners burning within 1 mile of woodland must notify the local Garda Station and woodland owner in writing at least 7 days in advance.
   
• Where burning is to take place within a Special Area of Conservation or Natural Heritage Area, written consent must be sought in advance from the National Parks and Wildlife Service.
   
• It is illegal to burn household or commercial/industrial waste, household green waste (e.g. hedging), electric cables for the recovery of copper, or to burn waste in bonfires.
   
• There is a temporary exemption until 1st January 2014 for waste generated by agricultural practices, but efforts must be first made to reduce, reuse, and recycle the waste and burning must only be considered as a final measure. Waste must be untreated and uncontaminated by other waste.

Source: Irish Press Releases

National Spring Clean 2012

10/04/2012

The National Spring Clean 2012 will take place from 1st-30th April. Everyone is encouraged to get involved in this annual anti-litter programme by organising a clean up of your local area during the month of April.

You can register your event online at on the National Spring Clean website. Once registered, you will receive a free clean-up kit from An Taisce. Included are tips on organising your spring cleaning event, posters to promote it, ideas on how to make your event fun and different, and plenty of materials such as recycling bags for use during your event.

There is also lots of information on Waste Management in Ireland and tips on Reducing Waste Going to Landfills on www.enfo.ie to encourage you and your team of 'spring cleaners' this April. 

Renewable Energy Research, Demonstration & Development (RERD&D) Programme

10/04/2012

SEAI invites proposals from business and public sector organisations located in Ireland and carrying out projects in Ireland with the intention of adding to SEAI's portfolio of renewable energy RD&D projects to be delivered in 2012.

Under this call, SEAI is seeking proposals that further the technical development and/or improve the policy environment leading to increased deployment of renewable energy and low carbon technologies, and a more sustainable Irish energy system. The Programme is open to a wide range of proposal types - including policy studies, field research, feasibility studies and technology RD&D. The move towards sustainable renewable energy options depends on resource availability, technical maturity and a policy environment that is conducive to both technology improvements and commercialisation. SEAI, in this call for proposals, seeks to promote research into technologies and options best suited to Ireland's own resources and needs.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted on time and by 30 April 2012. As this is a competitive call, applications will be evaluated on the basis of the eligibility and assessment criteria and those best addressing the objectives of the Programme and the specific technology objectives of the call will be selected for funding.

Source: SEAI

Congratulations to the companies shortlisted for this year's Green Awards

10/04/2012

This year has seen not only the biggest response to date, but also the highest standard. Being shortlisted alone is a great achievement; on behalf of our sponsors, congratulations to all concerned. The full shortlist can be viewed on the Green Awards website.

The winners will be announced at the glittering Award Ceremony on April 19^th, 2012 at the Burlington Hotel, hosted once again by the hilarious Risteard Cooper.

Source: Green Awards

Green Business Workshops April 2012

05/04/2012

GreenBusiness and the Green Hospitality Programme (GHP) announce their joint Free Regional Workshops under the umbrella of the EPA’s BeGreen programme.

From February through June they will visit Limerick, Killarney, Cork, Dublin, Donegal, Wexford, Galway, Midlands, Mayo and Kilkenny.  Each workshop will be held in the morning and finish before lunch and are designed to assist Irish businesses in improving their environmental performance through reducing the costs of Waste, Water & Energy

The workshop sessions are designed to introduce the concept and idea and “How To” of adopting a Green Business initiative to the business community and will include Top Tips, Case Studies and opportunities to achieve environmental certification.  Businesses will have the opportunity to quiz experts on their bills, consumption and get answers for some of the common challenges facing them when dealing with Waste, Water & Energy.

Donegal (Harveys Point Hotel, 18th April) and Wexford (Whites of Wexford Hotel, Wexford Town, 25th April) Workshops take place in April. Presentations from previous workshops are available on the GreenBusiness website.

Source: GreenBusiness

Coillte celebrates 10 years of FSC and positive outlook for exports of Irish timber

05/04/2012

Coillte, Ireland’s largest forestry and forest products company, hosted an event at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium yesterday (4th April) to celebrate 10 years of independent certification from the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). This certification is an independent endorsement of Coillte’s management of its forests and has been a major factor in allowing Coillte and its customers increase exports of timber and timber panel products. The event also recognised the role of all of Coillte’s customers, contractors  and stakeholders in maintaining this certification and was attended by approximately 200 people.

Kevin McCloud the writer, designer and television presenter best known for Channel 4’s Grand Designs, was Master of Ceremonies and keynote speaker at the event.

Further information and some facts and figures are available on the Coillte website.

Source: Coillte

Offshore Exploration and Exploitation in the Mediterranean

04/04/2012

A new Future Brief focusing on the environmental impacts of offshore exploration and exploitation in the Mediterreanean is published by Science for Environment Policy today. It is free to download from the Europa (pdf) website.

Offshore exploration and exploitation activities include oil and gas development, as well as renewable energy generation and seabed mining for minerals, sand and gravel. This Future Brief presents currently available evidence on the impacts of these activities on the marine and coastal environment of the Mediterreanean.

Such activities are increasing in the Mediterranean marine environment, which is particularly vulnerable due to its semiclosed configuration and significant seismic activity.

Source: Science for Environment Policy

Statistics show overall improvement in Ireland's environment

03/04/2012

Better air quality, a fall in greenhouse gas emissions, improved water quality, a fall in the amount of waste being sent to landfill, and an increase in the numbers of low emission vehicles are some of the areas which show the quality of Ireland’s environment has improved over recent years.

These are some of the findings in Environmental Indicators 2012 (pdf) published by the CSO. The report paints a broadly positive picture of progress in Ireland’s environment across nine different domains. Reduced levels of economic activity since 2008 have eased pressure on some resources, while national policy changes and EU legislation have driven other improvements.

Source: CSO

Bee identification workshop - 26th April

03/04/2012

Dr Úna FitzPatrick will present a workshop on the introduction to solitary bees and their identification on 26th April 2012. This workshop will be held in the National Biodiversity Data Centre from 10am-4pm. The cost is €20 (includes lunch).

Places are limited so advance booking and payment is essential. For further information please contact Maria Walsh, National Biodiversity Data Centre, WIT West Campus, Carriganore, Waterford.  Tel: 051 306 240 or email: info@biodiversityireland.ie.

Source: National Biodiversity Data Centre

Pioneering company, EGPT, scoops the 2012 Sustainable Energy Innovation Award

02/04/2012

A pioneering new system that saves the waste of natural gas as it is transported via pipeline and transforms it into electricity that can be put back into the grid, was crowned the overall winner of the Sustainable Energy Innovation Award.

EGPT Ltd, who picked up the Award at the second day of the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland’s (SEAI) Energy Show at the RDS , was set up in 2009 by Dr Paul Sikora to develop an efficient gas depressurisation system via the Expanding Gas Power Transformation (EGPT) process. The system also negates the need to burn gas for heating.

EGPT Ltd beat tough competition from companies including AERIAQ Filtration Ltd, Climote, Ecoscan Ltd, Road Recycling Ireland and Terawatt Ireland for its innovation, energy performance and environmental impact and the business potential of EGPT system. Each of the six finalists had to pitch their product to a ‘dragons’ den’ style panel of four judges in an open forum at the Energy Show.

The Sustainable Energy Innovation Award winners will receive financial support towards their business development costs.

Source: SEAI

Tracking Irish Mammals (MISE) – workshops, September 2012

02/04/2012

The National Biodiversity Data Centre (NBDC) will host two workshops on 'Tracking Irish Mammals' on Saturday 1st and Saturday 8th September, 2012. A repeat of last year’s popular one day mammal detective workshop, these free events will take place from 10am-4pm at the NBDC in Waterford and will be lead by Dr Pete Turner. The events will be run this year as part of the MISE programme (Mammals in a Sustainable Environment). For more information on MISE visit http://www.miseproject.ie/.

Bookings can be made through info@biodiversityireland.ie or by phoning 051-306 240. There is a limit of 30 places on the course, so book early to avoid disappointment! Further information is available on the NBDC website.