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<h3>Introduction&nbsp;</h3><p>Big things are brewing in Carlow, quite literally. The National Centre for Brewing and Distilling has just opened its doors at Teagasc Oak Park, and it’s not just a win for the drinks industry, it's one for Irish farmers, tillage growers, and anyone interested in sustainable, homegrown enterprise.</p><p>Launched by Minister of State Martin Heydon and backed by €2.3 million in funding since 2020, the centre is packed with cutting-edge equipment designed to support everything from beer brewing and spirit distillation to non-alcoholic craft drinks and sensory analysis of Irish whiskey. But what makes this development really exciting is its potential to bring the drinks industry closer to the Irish field.</p><figure id="figure-qxu4k2m17mmbar6awk"><img id="qxu4k2m17mmbar6awk" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1425033867/photo/brewery-equipment-brew-manufacturing-round-cooper-storage-tanks-for-beer-fermentation-and.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=Oim-9-bOnoqaWedgLzQjxt72K4LbBa9sjtWCK9Lasqg=" alt="Brewery equipment. Brew manufacturing. Round cooper storage tanks for beer fermentation and maturation" title="Brewery equipment. Brew manufacturing. Round cooper storage tanks for beer fermentation and maturation" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1425033867/photo/brewery-equipment-brew-manufacturing-round-cooper-storage-tanks-for-beer-fermentation-and.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=Oim-9-bOnoqaWedgLzQjxt72K4LbBa9sjtWCK9Lasqg=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Reconnecting Field and Glass</h3><p><br>For years, much of the work involved in developing new beers and spirits such as; testing grains, trialling recipes, and refining flavours, had to be done overseas. It was expensive, logistically awkward, and a missed opportunity for Irish agriculture. Now, with this state-of-the-art centre based in Carlow, all of that changes.</p><p>Producers can work directly with Irish-grown grain and farmers can finally be part of that creative process, not just sitting at the raw end of the supply chain.</p><figure id="figure-a1jumjlv5mbarrw0k" class=""><img id="a1jumjlv5mbarrw0k" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1419422545/photo/ruin-of-a-windmill-in-a-field-of-wheat.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=aTeOselKEDzYi2NYNo5m08LB10HmpnGZ-RQvZm6I_gs=" alt="Ruin of a windmill in a field of wheat" title="Ruin of a windmill in a field of wheat" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1419422545/photo/ruin-of-a-windmill-in-a-field-of-wheat.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=aTeOselKEDzYi2NYNo5m08LB10HmpnGZ-RQvZm6I_gs=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Good News for Grain Growers</h3><p>In 2024, incomes on tillage farms increased with the average hitting around €30,000. Spring barley is back in strong demand too, with nearly 140,000 hectares planted last year, well above what we’ve seen over the past five.</p><p>Still, things can be uncertain. Grain prices bounce around, and markets don’t always play fair. That’s where the new brewing and distilling centre in Carlow could make a real difference. It gives Irish growers a way to connect directly with producers looking for quality, local ingredients.&nbsp;</p><p>It’s a simple idea, really: the closer the connection between field and final product, the better it is for everyone. It adds value to the grain, cuts out some middlemen, and gives farmers a bigger stake in the finished story.&nbsp;</p><figure id="figure-35gd1ock3hmbarwav9" class=""><img id="35gd1ock3hmbarwav9" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/147318570/photo/golden-grains-of-irish-fields.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=Z2RHuLN9nMGm9YaTDuPXnLomS_t_Zw8glWZhzXaJn0s=" alt="Golden grains of Irish fields" title="Golden grains of Irish fields" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/147318570/photo/golden-grains-of-irish-fields.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=Z2RHuLN9nMGm9YaTDuPXnLomS_t_Zw8glWZhzXaJn0s=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>The Sustainbility Side of Things</h3><p>When people talk about sustainability, it’s easy for the conversation to drift into vague territory. But at its core, it boils down to practical decisions that make long-term sense. If we can grow the grain here, malt it here, brew it here, and bottle it here, we cut out a whole load of unnecessary steps; fewer food miles, less reliance on imported grain, and more value staying within the country. It’s better for the environment, and it’s better business too.</p><p>Plenty of farmers are already putting in break crops like beans, oats, and oilseeds. These aren’t just good for the ground; they’re vital for crop rotation and reducing the need for chemical inputs. The issue has always been finding consistent, worthwhile outlets for them.</p><p>With this centre up and running, there’s now a real market for what’s grown here. A brewery needing Irish oats for a limited-release stout, or a distillery experimenting with a new mash bill, it all starts to add up. It gives those crops a destination, and that helps keep the whole system balanced and worthwhile.</p><p>It’s not about ticking sustainability boxes for the sake of it. It’s about building a system that works, from the ground up.</p><figure id="figure-25nx4kfn5jmbasdigw" class=""><img id="25nx4kfn5jmbasdigw" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1084732474/photo/making-beer.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=gt_FdtwUU46DIURMrGjSdtvSuVTgXWhMnAVSGzPnqGc=" alt="making beer" title="making beer" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1084732474/photo/making-beer.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=gt_FdtwUU46DIURMrGjSdtvSuVTgXWhMnAVSGzPnqGc=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>From Pot Stills to People Skills</h3><p><br>Beyond the tech and the testing, the centre is also a place of learning. It will be used to train students in brewing and distilling, offering practical, real-world experience. That’s not just good news for graduates, it’s great news for the industry.</p><p>We need a new generation of people who understand both the science and the story behind what we drink. Who know where the grain came from. Who care about quality, sustainability, and the future of Irish food and farming.</p><figure id="figure-w16ufwntgdmbasf6js" class=""><img id="w16ufwntgdmbasf6js" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1611425462/photo/man-and-woman-working-in-craft-brewery-examining-quality-of-the-beer.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=15wMP3MsD1Ese0Ua0Hz3VTekroojzwbTXKABoMHvPno=" alt="Man and woman working in craft brewery examining quality of the beer." title="Man and woman working in craft brewery examining quality of the beer." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1611425462/photo/man-and-woman-working-in-craft-brewery-examining-quality-of-the-beer.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=15wMP3MsD1Ese0Ua0Hz3VTekroojzwbTXKABoMHvPno=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>The newly opened National Centre for Brewing and Distilling at Teagasc Oak Park, Carlow, is a major step forward for Irish agriculture and the drinks sector. Backed by €2.3 million in funding, it brings product development, once outsourced abroad, back onto Irish soil. Farmers can now work directly with producers, creating a stronger link between grain and glass. With tillage incomes rising and demand for crops like spring barley growing, the centre offers real opportunity in a volatile market. It also strengthens sustainability by reducing food miles and supporting the use of break crops like oats and beans. On top of that, it’s a training ground for the next generation of brewers and distillers, people who value Irish grain, understand the land, and care about quality.</p><p><br data-mce-bogus="1"></p><p>*By Anne Hayden MSc., Founder, The Informed Farmer Consultancy.</p>

Grain to Glass: The Impact of Carlow's New Brewing and Distilling Centre on Irish Farmers

<h3>Introduction&nbsp;</h3><p>This weekend in Galway was definitely one we won’t forget for a while! Our founder, Anne Hayden, was there for the launch of Clipper the Hurl, a new children’s book which she had the honour of curating the illustrations for. It was a lovely day, full of families, laughter, books, and that special kind of energy you only get when people gather to celebrate something meaningful.</p><p>Anne doesn’t often shout about her creative work, but we’re going to do it for her this time. The illustrations she curated for Clipper are full of life, warmth, and Irish charm, just like the story itself. Watching it all come together over the past few months has been a joy, and seeing it finally launch was a proud moment for everyone who’s been part of the journey.</p><figure id="figure-l9o8b50vtmb58tlm6" class=""><img id="l9o8b50vtmb58tlm6" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/5KKRttK6p0JhmoTKmAxCHTecEFqMPchj2wPAp9DY9n1zjy9hwgK4aJsHrd6p503P.jpg" alt="green ireland" title="green ireland" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/5KKRttK6p0JhmoTKmAxCHTecEFqMPchj2wPAp9DY9n1zjy9hwgK4aJsHrd6p503P.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>A Quiet Chat with the Tánaiste</h3><p>Another highlight of the event was a quiet but inspiring conversation between Anne and Tánaiste Simon Harris. They talked about Irish literature, where it’s come from, where it’s going, and how sustainability plays a bigger role in the stories we tell our children.</p><p>It’s a topic that sits right at the heart of what we do at The Informed Farmer. We spend our days working on the practical side of sustainability; soil health, food systems, climate action, but we’ve always believed that culture and creativity are just as important. If we want to build a better future, we need to be able to imagine it first. And that starts with stories.</p><figure id="figure-ad5wlha9qmb591ut2" class=""><img id="ad5wlha9qmb591ut2" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/6y3XEBnE1vvRrcE96XrcDmmVY3DIVAVA9274juqOWmkVGnE3iMrUHclph2PsQNRh.jpg" alt="technology farming" title="technology farming" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/6y3XEBnE1vvRrcE96XrcDmmVY3DIVAVA9274juqOWmkVGnE3iMrUHclph2PsQNRh.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Stories That Plant Seeds</h3><p>Children’s books are often our first teachers. They help shape how we see the world, what we value, and how we treat each other. That’s why sustainability has a place in storytelling, not as a lesson to hammer home, but as a quiet thread that runs through the pages.</p><p>Clipper the Hurl isn’t a book about climate change or farming. It’s a fun, local, feel-good story. But underneath the humour and heart, there’s something more, an invitation to care about your place, your people, your roots. And that, to us, is sustainability in action.</p><figure id="figure-crmhvmw6xamb593pmo" class=""><img id="crmhvmw6xamb593pmo" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/18CQhNnJVnqrniHc6KNT5cj7FNlYmJRiYJymJMsTiXhFKEe0YynziKiYzY3jz0UA.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/18CQhNnJVnqrniHc6KNT5cj7FNlYmJRiYJymJMsTiXhFKEe0YynziKiYzY3jz0UA.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>We left Galway feeling quietly proud. Seeing Clipper the Hurl in the hands of families, with Anne’s curations bringing it to life, was something special.</p><p>It reminded us that stories matter, and not just the big ones. The small, local ones, the ones rooted in a place, full of heart. This wasn’t just a book launch, it was a reminder of why we do what we do.</p><p><br></p><p>*By Conor McElwee (MSc) Consultant, The Informed Farmer Consultancy.</p>

Sustainability Practices in Ireland: Leading the Way

Aerial view of the awarded Narin Beach by Portnoo and Inishkeel Island in County Donegal, Ireland

<h3>Introduction</h3><p>There’s something amazing about standing on an Irish beach and seeing a Blue Flag fluttering in the breeze. It means the water is clean, the area is well looked after, and that somewhere along the line, a group of people worked hard to protect that stretch of coast. This year, that moment means more than ever.</p><p>For the 2025 bathing season, Ireland has been awarded a record 89 Blue Flags and 10 marina flags, the highest number since the programme began. That’s not just a reason to celebrate, it’s a sign that we’re moving in the right direction when it comes to caring for our beaches, protecting our environment, and taking pride in the natural places that bring so much value to our lives.</p><figure id="figure-jlzilbok5fmaz4yf35"><img id="jlzilbok5fmaz4yf35" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/35RsxXuCXKCPQOMyZbkhVxSKvAbTjWIeHHCsoEsi4VXP39BiHTOG8gyLWiFD2Hkf.jpeg" alt="ireland coast" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/35RsxXuCXKCPQOMyZbkhVxSKvAbTjWIeHHCsoEsi4VXP39BiHTOG8gyLWiFD2Hkf.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h3>A Strong Year for the Coast</h3><p>The Blue Flag is not easily earned. To qualify, beaches and marinas must meet strict standards in water quality, safety, cleanliness, and environmental education. Getting the award is no easy task, and keeping it year after year takes serious commitment.</p><p>This year, Kerry led the way with 15 Blue Flags, followed closely by Cork with 11. Cork also received 14 Green Coast Awards, the most of any county, this recognises beaches that are of high environmental quality and natural beauty. These are places that may not have full facilities but offer something even more valuable, a sense of unspoilt wildness, strong biodiversity, and deep connection to place.</p><p>Some well-known spots returned to the Blue Flag list this year. Tramore in Waterford and Cappagh Pier in Clarere gained their status after earlier losses due to water quality issues. In Galway, Céibh an Spidéal received a Blue Flag for the first time since 2012, showing just how much positive change is possible with local effort. Keel Beach on Achill Island marked an extraordinary milestone too, earning the award for the 37th year running.</p><p>Ten beaches also achieved the rare distinction of receiving both a Blue Flag and a Green Coast Award, among them Salthill, Rosses Point, and Inchydoney East. It’s proof that you can combine excellent amenities with true environmental care.</p><figure id="figure-ir0nh14j9maz4ynu6"><img id="ir0nh14j9maz4ynu6" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1159250880/photo/aerial-view-of-blackrock-beach-with-diving-tower-in-salthill.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=1fTjEzpBzYg85YM4JTyTjoxSm0hEXephwp_tz_aPnMI=" alt="Aerial view of Blackrock beach with Diving tower in Salthill" title="Aerial view of Blackrock beach with Diving tower in Salthill" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1159250880/photo/aerial-view-of-blackrock-beach-with-diving-tower-in-salthill.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=1fTjEzpBzYg85YM4JTyTjoxSm0hEXephwp_tz_aPnMI=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>It’s About More Than Just a View</h3><p>Blue Flags do more than make beaches look good on paper. They reflect how well a place is managed and protected. Each site is tested regularly for water quality, it must have clear safety measures in place, and it is expected to promote awareness of its local environment.</p><p>But the awards also point to something bigger, a shared belief that our coastlines are worth looking after. They remind us that beaches are not just summer spots, they’re living systems, shaped by tides, weather, human use, and policy decisions. They need attention, resources, and long-term thinking.</p><p>This is where sustainability becomes more than just a buzzword. It becomes a lived reality, something built into the way we manage land, water, and community spaces.</p><figure id="figure-u4w5x3noqmaz4ytft"><img id="u4w5x3noqmaz4ytft" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/32xy8T4unJ6UOL240RkKxcSpp0Z3Igm108VqpYl83Uzm299kt6cbyHRyT5Wrupfb.jpeg" alt="irish beach landscape" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/32xy8T4unJ6UOL240RkKxcSpp0Z3Igm108VqpYl83Uzm299kt6cbyHRyT5Wrupfb.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h3>Why Water Sustainability Matters</h3><p>The health of our seas and beaches doesn’t begin at the shoreline. It starts far inland. What we do on farms, in housing estates, on construction sites, and in towns has a direct impact on our rivers, lakes, and coastal waters.</p><p>That’s why water sustainability matters. Preventing agricultural run-off, cutting down on plastic pollution, managing wastewater properly, and restoring natural filters like wetlands and reed beds all play a part in protecting the coast.</p><p>Ireland’s marine and freshwater systems support a wide range of species and livelihoods. They are the backbone of local fisheries, tourism, aquaculture, and recreation. They also help protect us from flooding, absorb carbon, and provide habitats we cannot replace.</p><p>At the same time, these systems are under growing pressure. Rising sea levels, more intense rainfall, and nutrient build-up are already putting strain on some of our most treasured places. But the work being done right now, from upgrading treatment plants to planting buffer zones beside rivers, shows that change is possible when water is treated as a shared responsibility.</p><figure id="figure-s19nzkwz6rmaz4yz0r"><img id="s19nzkwz6rmaz4yz0r" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1863130999/photo/a-lone-figure-on-a-beach.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=WE0mT-qZoTMW22XQLvR5vAxKD8KrFUmd_j3OAqWvOpo=" alt="A lone figure on a beach" title="A lone figure on a beach" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1863130999/photo/a-lone-figure-on-a-beach.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=WE0mT-qZoTMW22XQLvR5vAxKD8KrFUmd_j3OAqWvOpo=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Where Do We Go From Here?</h3><p>This record number of awards didn’t happen by chance. It reflects years of work by communities, councils, volunteers, and environmental groups. Improvements in infrastructure, tighter controls on pollution, and public awareness campaigns have all helped push the numbers up.</p><p>The challenge now is to keep that progress going. Sustainability is about staying the course, even when the spotlight fades.</p><p>Looking ahead, there are a few areas that will be key:</p><ul><li>Bringing land and sea planning together, so that farming, tourism, housing, and environmental protection are all pulling in the same direction.</li><li>Using nature to our advantage, with wetlands, woodlands, and coastlines acting as buffers and filters.</li><li>Building infrastructure that can handle what’s coming, from heavier rainfall to rising tides.</li><li>Monitoring environmental health more closely, especially in vulnerable catchments and coastal areas</li></ul><p><br>If we can continue to bring different sectors together. from agriculture to marine conservation, then Ireland can be a real leader in sustainable land and water management.</p><figure id="figure-lryuk81npemaz5jj6a" class=""><img id="lryuk81npemaz5jj6a" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1186178292/photo/world-famous-cliffs-of-moher-one-of-the-most-popular-tourist-destinations-in-ireland-aerial.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=BQQJZSJy3sFTKcjK-7S2k9SldggMyMDj0MVxdmoTp58=" alt="World famous Cliffs of Moher, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Ireland. Aerial view of known tourist attraction on Wild Atlantic Way in County Clare." title="World famous Cliffs of Moher, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Ireland. Aerial view of known tourist attraction on Wild Atlantic Way in County Clare." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1186178292/photo/world-famous-cliffs-of-moher-one-of-the-most-popular-tourist-destinations-in-ireland-aerial.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=BQQJZSJy3sFTKcjK-7S2k9SldggMyMDj0MVxdmoTp58=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Ireland on the Global Stage</h3><p>This isn’t just a good news story for us here at home. It sends a message internationally too. In a world that’s becoming more climate-conscious, countries that care for their environments will stand out.</p><p>Ireland’s record number of Blue Flag and Green Coast Awards shows that we’re not just talking about sustainability, we’re doing the work. That matters, whether we’re welcoming tourists, bidding for funding, or taking part in international climate conversations.</p><p>There are also real economic benefits. Clean beaches draw visitors. They support small businesses, boost local pride, and help rural communities thrive. In 2024, coastal tourism played a major role in local economies, and this year’s achievements are likely to build on that momentum.</p><p>Even more importantly, it shows young people across the country that their future isn’t something to fear – it’s something they can help shape. When they see their local beach earning a Blue Flag, it tells them that progress is possible, and that their community is part of something bigger.</p><figure id="figure-4ssgyr6d3maz5l3ij" class=""><img id="4ssgyr6d3maz5l3ij" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/154996769/photo/cliffs-of-moher.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=RpKggDy9FDOWL9wbvRSEL36V1udk92agmlb7-xkjxuU=" alt="Cliffs of Moher" title="Cliffs of Moher" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/154996769/photo/cliffs-of-moher.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=RpKggDy9FDOWL9wbvRSEL36V1udk92agmlb7-xkjxuU=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>It’s been a brilliant year for Ireland’s beaches, no doubt. But the real story isn’t the flags, it’s what they stand for. They show that we care and that we’re putting in the effort, often quietly, to protect the places we love. From water testing to picking up litter or making changes on farms, it all makes a difference.</p><p>The challenge now is to keep going, to stay committed even when no one’s clapping because, this isn’t just about tourism., it’s about valuing the land and sea.</p><p><br></p><p>*By Anne Hayden MSc., Founder, The Informed Farmer Consultancy.</p>

Ireland's Blue Flag Beaches: A 2025 Milestone for Coastal Sustainability

World biodiversity concept. The sustainable ecological environment and harmony living with nature. World environment day, environmental protection awareness. Biological diversity concept.

<h3>Introduction</h3><p>From 16 to 25 May, communities across the country will come together to mark National Biodiversity Week 2025 . This is a nationwide invitation to step outside, explore what’s growing, crawling, and singing around us, and consider how we might better protect it.</p><p>Organised by the Irish Environmental Network, the week is packed with hundreds of free events from coastal walks and woodland workshops to photography competitions and schoolyard scavenger hunts. But this isn’t just a celebration for nature enthusiasts, it’s a moment for all of us to take stock of what’s changing in our natural world, and what we stand to lose if we don’t act.</p><p>At The Informed Farmer Consultancy,&nbsp; we work closely with communities, farmers, and landowners who see the impact of biodiversity loss first-hand, in the soil, in the hedgerows, and in the watercourses. But you don’t have to live on a farm or run a consultancy firm to care as biodiversity affects us all, whether we realise it or not.</p><figure id="figure-vvcawk67cgmaw9va4o"><img id="vvcawk67cgmaw9va4o" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/2dlYhvqFTIqPwLaOrk3qiJO5bZNPDLKpseMayPSlgFIPhWre1C3t22ezclFw9H98.jpeg" alt="biodiversity nature" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/2dlYhvqFTIqPwLaOrk3qiJO5bZNPDLKpseMayPSlgFIPhWre1C3t22ezclFw9H98.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h3>So, What Exactly Is Biodiversity?</h3><p>Put simply, biodiversity is the diversity of life on Earth. It covers everything from otters and oak trees to soil bacteria, mosses, fungus, and earthworms. Both visible and unseen organisms work together in intricate processes that maintain the quality of our air, the growth of our food, and the (relatively) stability of our climate.&nbsp;</p><p>In Ireland, we’re lucky to have some extraordinary natural habitats; blanket bogs, limestone pavements, ancient woodlands and species-rich grasslands. But they’re not in good shape, and we’re losing species faster than we realise.</p><p>For instance:</p><ul><li>Around 31% of Ireland’s assessed species are at risk of extinction (NPWS).</li><li>Over 60% of our protected habitats are in “unfavourable” condition.</li><li>Iconic species like the curlew and the pearl mussel are now critically endangered.</li><li>One-third of Ireland’s wild bee species are also facing extinction – a serious concern for our food systems.<br></li></ul><p>The causes? Habitat loss, intensive land use, pollution, invasive species, and climate change, all of which are accelerating.</p><figure id="figure-lhndphftumaw9vfwe"><img id="lhndphftumaw9vfwe" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/349TTMnoLfmZDGK3ZsuYtxYtLHIiX1TiCX6f9TwoS5rlIUhhCIo3w3esUbUlWp3c.jpeg" alt="environmental conservation" title="environmental conservation" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/349TTMnoLfmZDGK3ZsuYtxYtLHIiX1TiCX6f9TwoS5rlIUhhCIo3w3esUbUlWp3c.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Why It Matters – To All of Us</h3><p>There’s a bit of a tendency to treat biodiversity as an “environmental” issue, something for experts or rural communities to worry about. But the reality is, it underpins our everyday lives.</p><p>Whether it’s the pollinators that keep our food crops growing, the wetlands that help prevent flooding, or the microorganisms that keep soil fertile, biodiversity is the quiet engine behind so much of what we take for granted.</p><p>It also plays a powerful role in our mental and physical wellbeing. Studies have shown that spending time in biodiverse green spaces reduces stress, lowers blood pressure, and improves concentration. Meaning, that it’s not just good for nature, it’s good for us too.</p><figure id="figure-lrs0txfji5mawah8uv" class=""><img id="lrs0txfji5mawah8uv" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1912105812/photo/cardio-training-outdoors-side-view-of-caucasian-grey-bearded-man-and-beautiful-old-woman.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=jYYMo3c1j3JVyHdChew5R6cC0AHRACVOSnurqh53px4=" alt="Cardio training outdoors. Side view of caucasian grey bearded man and beautiful old woman running along summer park with sunlight on background. Cheerful retired people leading active lifestyle." title="Cardio training outdoors. Side view of caucasian grey bearded man and beautiful old woman running along summer park with sunlight on background. Cheerful retired people leading active lifestyle." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1912105812/photo/cardio-training-outdoors-side-view-of-caucasian-grey-bearded-man-and-beautiful-old-woman.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=jYYMo3c1j3JVyHdChew5R6cC0AHRACVOSnurqh53px4=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>What’s Happening During Biodiversity Week?</h3><p>Across Ireland, hundreds of free, local events are being hosted to mark the week. Many of them family-friendly and open to anyone with a pair of boots and a bit of curiosity.</p><p>Here are just a few highlights:</p><ul><li><strong>Nature Walks and Field Events:</strong> Led by ecologists, park rangers and community groups, these offer a chance to explore hedgerows, shorelines, woodlands and meadows.</li><li><strong>Biodiversity Photographer of the Year:</strong> A national competition that invites people of all ages to capture nature in their local area.</li><li><strong>Schoolyard Scavenger Hunts: </strong>Designed to get children noticing the bugs, birds and plants in their own playgrounds. Crucially, this helps to build an early appreciation for nature.</li><li><strong>Talks and Workshops:</strong> Covering everything from pollinator-friendly gardening to building wildlife corridors in urban areas.<br></li></ul><p>You can find the full event listings on the National Biodiversity Week website, and most are also shared on local authority and community social media pages.</p><figure id="figure-qn40k12uumawaqozg" class=""><img id="qn40k12uumawaqozg" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2034115364/photo/little-african-learning-to-grow-vegetable-in-the-garden.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=rCey3g1xY0ATyHP2A7QRkJbK1-NDkIwuOyOnK89aPSg=" alt="Little African learning to grow vegetable in the garden." title="Little African learning to grow vegetable in the garden." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2034115364/photo/little-african-learning-to-grow-vegetable-in-the-garden.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=rCey3g1xY0ATyHP2A7QRkJbK1-NDkIwuOyOnK89aPSg=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>What Can You Do – Even Without a Garden</h3><p>You don’t need to be a farmer or a botanist to make a difference. Many of the most effective biodiversity actions are small, local, and completely doable, even if you live in an apartment or have no garden at all.</p><p>Here are five practical things you can do this week:</p><p><strong>1. Leave it be:</strong><br>If you have any sort of outdoor space such as; a garden, a verge, or a patio container, try letting it grow a little wild. Dandelions, clover and wild grasses are a lifeline for pollinators, especially early in the year. Also, mowing less often makes a real difference.</p><p><br><strong>2. Plant for nature:</strong><br>Choose native species when you plant, things like hawthorn, foxglove, or heather. Even a window box of herbs like thyme and lavender can attract bees. And the more variety, the better.</p><p><br><strong>3. Log what you see:</strong><br>Use apps like the National Biodiversity Data Centre’s ‘Species Hub’ to record any wildlife sightings such as; birds, insects, plants, or even moss. These citizen science records feed into national conservation work and help experts track changes over time.</p><p><br><strong>4. Avoid garden chemicals:</strong><br>Herbicides and pesticides might offer a quick fix for weeds or pests, but they also harm beneficial insects, amphibians and birds. Switching to manual weeding or natural methods is far better for the ecosystem.</p><p><br><strong>5. Get to know your patch:</strong><br>Whether you walk the same park every day or live near a canal or woodland, try to notice what’s living there. not just the birds and butterflies, but the fungi, lichens, plants, and insects. The more we learn to recognise, the more likely we are to care, and act.</p><figure id="figure-9ddsxupadmawawv41" class=""><img id="9ddsxupadmawawv41" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2154160833/photo/wellington-monument.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=WgctjLHlf_PjNvuDf0Lqo0SXJn-BhORnZ4zjFBOBFL8=" alt="Wellington Monument" title="Wellington Monument" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2154160833/photo/wellington-monument.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=WgctjLHlf_PjNvuDf0Lqo0SXJn-BhORnZ4zjFBOBFL8=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>At The Informed Farmer Consultancy, we work with people who want to make space for nature, whether that’s through biodiversity plans for farmland, local projects, or business strategies that support the environment. But we know it’s not just about big plans or formal policies. Real change often starts with small, everyday choices – how we treat our gardens, what we buy, how we speak about nature, and the values we pass on.&nbsp;</p><p>National Biodiversity Week is a chance to reconnect, not just with the outdoors, but with the idea that we’re part of something bigger. The problems can feel overwhelming, but the answers often begin close to home. For instance, you could go for a walk, join a local event, or just take a moment to notice what’s growing nearby. And if you’d like support bringing more biodiversity into your land, your business, or your local area, we’re always here to help.</p><p><br></p><p>*By Anne Hayden MSc., Founder, The Informed Farmer Consultancy.</p>

Celebrating National Biodiversity Week 2025: The Importance of Nature

<h3>Introduction&nbsp;</h3><p>Across Ireland, something real is happening. Since 2022, the 100 Million Trees Project has been quietly changing the landscape—tree by tree, field by field. In the last two and a half years, around 750,000 native trees have been planted.</p><p>It’s not just about trees. It’s people—farmers, volunteers, communities—getting stuck in and doing something about the environmental mess we’re in. It’s a response that feels grounded, local, and doable.</p><figure id="figure-xx69onqdllimap54vq0"><img id="xx69onqdllimap54vq0" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/481069344/photo/the-norway-spruce.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=iGAGlstEOnZ6JKhczGqrJYgxoSjQGVzI-gDbSJ6aI2w=" alt="The Norway spruce." title="The Norway spruce." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/481069344/photo/the-norway-spruce.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=iGAGlstEOnZ6JKhczGqrJYgxoSjQGVzI-gDbSJ6aI2w=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>A Natural Response to Climate and Biodiversity Crises</h3><p>Across Ireland, it’s getting harder to ignore the signs that our environment is under serious pressure. More than half of our native plant species are in decline, and even habitats that are meant to be protected are struggling. Pollinators like bumblebees are slowly disappearing, and butterflies—always a good indicator of how nature’s doing—have seen their numbers drop by half in recent years.</p><p>The 100 Million Trees Project is a response to that reality—not just a nice idea, but something practical and rooted in action. It focuses on planting native Irish trees like oak, birch, rowan and hazel. These aren’t just pretty additions to the landscape—they’re vital for wildlife. They create shelter and food for birds, mammals, insects, fungi, and help build healthy soil. They also reconnect fragmented habitats, hold water in the land, and protect areas at risk of erosion and flooding.</p><p>If the project reaches its goal, it could take about 2.5% of Ireland’s carbon emissions out of the atmosphere. That might not seem huge on its own, but in the bigger picture, it’s a meaningful, local step—and one that can grow over time, literally.</p><figure id="figure-wz8kdcq1dmap55h45" class=""><img id="wz8kdcq1dmap55h45" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1486906414/photo/ancient-english-oak-tree.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=-z-x6nAYpvzNxr0QsRbdeTJPnPHF1t9EY_OmpxKPXHw=" alt="Ancient English oak tree" title="Ancient English oak tree" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1486906414/photo/ancient-english-oak-tree.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=-z-x6nAYpvzNxr0QsRbdeTJPnPHF1t9EY_OmpxKPXHw=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Community at the Heart of Rewilding</h3><p>What makes this project stand out isn’t just the scale—it’s the people behind it. Across counties, from urban estates to rural farmyards, individuals and groups are coming together to plant trees in their own communities. In 2023 alone, over 200,000 trees were planted across 85 sites, and the project is on track to reach 550,000 across more than 200 sites this season.</p><p>Whether it's a weekend planting day with a local GAA club or a few neighbours restoring an old hedgerow, these moments of connection are just as important as the trees themselves. This is rewilding that’s social, tactile, and deeply rooted in place.</p><figure id="figure-6n2a25jhgmap9vq9c" class=""><img id="6n2a25jhgmap9vq9c" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2213722262/photo/trees-in-a-meadow.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=DxOqqMToWGKxTmYd5m2edlPApSgYXHblDPkqSon0Am8=" alt="Trees in a meadow" title="Trees in a meadow" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2213722262/photo/trees-in-a-meadow.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=DxOqqMToWGKxTmYd5m2edlPApSgYXHblDPkqSon0Am8=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Growing the Next Generation of Stewards</h3><p>One of the most inspiring parts of this initiative is the way it involves young people. Across Ireland, schools have embraced the project—not just to green their grounds, but to plant the seeds of environmental responsibility in their pupils. In total, over 500,000 saplings have been planted by children through school-based campaigns, with more added every year.</p><p>There’s something powerful about watching a child plant a tree and then return to it months or years later to see how it’s grown. It creates a lasting bond with the land—one that can’t be taught in a textbook. These outdoor classrooms are nurturing the next generation of environmental stewards, who understand not just the science, but the feeling of caring for nature.</p><figure id="figure-lcae293kimapa9i1d" class=""><img id="lcae293kimapa9i1d" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1326293895/photo/school-zone-warning-sign-on-traffic.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=yYkFapmAd2KrXSTp5FVfGJfEAU5rLGJhkz39fpMGdSk=" alt="School zone warning sign on traffic" title="School zone warning sign on traffic" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1326293895/photo/school-zone-warning-sign-on-traffic.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=yYkFapmAd2KrXSTp5FVfGJfEAU5rLGJhkz39fpMGdSk=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Farmers and Landowners: Leading the Way for Nature’s Recovery</h3><p>The success of the 100 Million Trees Project is rooted in the people who know the land best. Across the country, landowners—and especially farmers—are stepping up in growing numbers.&nbsp;</p><p>What’s powerful is that it’s not about massive tracts of land. It’s often the smaller, overlooked spaces—half an acre here, the edge of a hedgerow there—where native trees are quietly being reintroduced. And it’s working.</p><p>More and more farmers are also trying out high-density planting methods that pack biodiversity and growth into even the tiniest of spaces. These pocket-sized forests don’t just support wildlife—they also boost soil health, provide shelter for animals, and help farms cope with droughts and floods.</p><p>What this movement shows is simple: restoring nature doesn’t mean taking land out of use. With the right mindset, planting trees can strengthen a farm, work alongside food production, and support a more resilient rural economy. It’s not either-or—it’s both.</p><figure id="figure-25dela7a5mapadhhi" class=""><img id="25dela7a5mapadhhi" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2185199897/photo/scenic-countryside-road-lined-with-trees-in-europe-a-tranquil-road-curves-through-lush-green.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=lqyrOPtZdp48iA0pwPRbySDtIt6DIn2fwe4uuuVfgw8=" alt="Scenic countryside road lined with trees in Europe. A tranquil road curves through lush green fields and towering trees under a bright blue sky in a European landscape." title="Scenic countryside road lined with trees in Europe. A tranquil road curves through lush green fields and towering trees under a bright blue sky in a European landscape." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2185199897/photo/scenic-countryside-road-lined-with-trees-in-europe-a-tranquil-road-curves-through-lush-green.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=lqyrOPtZdp48iA0pwPRbySDtIt6DIn2fwe4uuuVfgw8=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Restoring Ireland’s Ecological Heritage</h3><p>Ireland wasn’t always so bare. Not that long ago, the island was covered in native woodland—oak, birch, hazel—home to a huge variety of birds, insects, and plants. These days, only about 1% of that original forest remains. And while forest cover has crept up to just over 11%, most of it is made up of fast-growing conifers that don’t offer much for wildlife.</p><p>The 100 Million Trees Project is trying to turn that around, one small patch of land at a time. By planting native trees in little pockets across the country, it’s slowly stitching back together the patchwork of habitats that once thrived here. As those trees take hold, the birds, butterflies, wildflowers—and all the other small lives that rely on them—begin to return too.</p><p>But this isn’t about looking backwards. It’s not just about what we’ve lost—it’s about what we need to survive now. Native woodlands help clean our water, protect our soil, and make the land more resilient in the face of a changing climate. This work is about healing the land, yes—but also about safeguarding our future.</p><figure id="figure-wsxlw03l8mapaj9x5" class=""><img id="wsxlw03l8mapaj9x5" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/736380735/photo/trees-in-forest.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=hINEzcWF9tl86JlQkkSJR4cn3m2kchWjgqG-OjoOsN4=" alt="Trees In Forest" title="Trees In Forest" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/736380735/photo/trees-in-forest.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=hINEzcWF9tl86JlQkkSJR4cn3m2kchWjgqG-OjoOsN4=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>With just under one million trees in the ground so far, the road ahead is long. But these early years have shown what’s possible when community energy meets ecological vision. The ambition is huge, as is the heart behind it.</p><p>As a consultancy firm committed to sustainable agriculture, regenerative land use, and environmental leadership, we see this project as a beacon. It proves that you don’t need a global summit or a billion-euro fund to make a difference. Sometimes, the answer is as simple—and as profound—as planting a tree.</p><p><br></p><p>*By Anne Hayden MSc., Founder, The Informed Farmer Consultancy.</p>

Rewilding Ireland: The Impact of the 100 Million Trees Project

<h3>Introduction</h3><p>If there’s one thing farming teaches you, it’s how to adapt. Weather shifts, markets swing, policies come and go—but through it all, Irish farmers keep going. In 2025, though, that resilience is being tested more than ever. With climate targets to meet, input costs climbing, and consumer habits changing fast, more and more families are asking: what else can we do?</p><p>The answer for many is diversification. It’s not about giving up what you know—it’s about building on it. Here’s a look at some of the ways Irish farmers are making that happen, with ideas that are not only working but helping to shape a more secure future for farming families.</p><figure id="figure-fzg1p99edgmalbpfku"><img id="fzg1p99edgmalbpfku" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/2b0ma2oFoTqmCffdbB7LZc4rvSJoyr2F9xFKnmBoZEHswcmcXNMJxRpYy0adramf.jpeg" alt="irish farm" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/2b0ma2oFoTqmCffdbB7LZc4rvSJoyr2F9xFKnmBoZEHswcmcXNMJxRpYy0adramf.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h3>Glamping and Agri-Tourism – Letting the Land Tell Its Story</h3><p>There’s something powerful about giving people a chance to slow down, breathe in country air and reconnect with nature—and that’s exactly what glamping offers. Across Ireland, families are transforming unused fields and outbuildings into unique places to stay, and in doing so, creating a whole new income stream.</p><p>At Rock Farm Slane in Meath, for instance, visitors can sleep in yurts or shepherd’s huts, paddle down the Boyne, and even learn a bit about organic farming. It’s simple, peaceful, and personal—and people love it. The global glamping industry is expected to be worth nearly eight billion euro by 2032, and rural Ireland is in a strong position to benefit from that growth.</p><p>Of course, it’s not all plain sailing—planning permission and set-up costs can cause a few headaches—but where the right idea meets the right patch of land, the results can be transformative.</p><figure id="figure-rv00zzwsfmalc2wlm" class=""><img id="rv00zzwsfmalc2wlm" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1161243963/photo/glamping.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=pPqOL7XTd3VvK3MeZqS-bAI4VIFAhPMe6YXVqye7tqA=" alt="Glamping" title="Glamping" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1161243963/photo/glamping.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=pPqOL7XTd3VvK3MeZqS-bAI4VIFAhPMe6YXVqye7tqA=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Farm Shops and Local Produce – Selling What You Know, Straight from the Source</h3><p>There’s a growing appetite for local food—and not just in cities. Shoppers want to know where their food comes from, who made it, and what kind of values are behind the label. That’s where farm shops and artisan products come in.</p><p>In Clare, the team behind St Tola Goat Cheese have built a strong name for themselves by doing just that. What started as a small-scale operation is now a nationally recognised brand rooted in craftsmanship and care. Similarly, family-run spots like Strawberry Fields Farm Shop in Wicklow are thriving by selling homemade jams, fresh veg, and whatever’s in season—always with a friendly chat at the till.</p><p>At the moment, around three percent of Irish farms have taken this route, and more are following suit. It’s not just about making a few extra euro—it’s about adding value to what you already produce and staying close to your community in the process.</p><figure id="figure-f5u8ur37omalc3zh7" class=""><img id="f5u8ur37omalc3zh7" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1137642486/photo/white-goat-portrait-on-animal-farm.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=yYHczPvNkljNA6zLGBQmD-C78xMRSuobeJoP1S9SYVQ=" alt="white goat portrait on animal farm" title="white goat portrait on animal farm" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1137642486/photo/white-goat-portrait-on-animal-farm.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=yYHczPvNkljNA6zLGBQmD-C78xMRSuobeJoP1S9SYVQ=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Renewable Energy – Making the Most of Every Ray, Breeze and Drop</h3><p>For some, diversification means looking up—literally. With energy costs being what they are, and sustainability goals becoming stricter by the year, many farmers are investing in solar, wind or even anaerobic digestion systems to power their farms and reduce their bills.</p><p>In Westmeath, the Clonfad Solar Farm is on track to become the country’s largest, but the real story lies in smaller, family-scale systems popping up around the country. Rooftop panels on sheds, small wind turbines by the hedgerows—quiet, efficient setups that take pressure off the grid and bring long-term savings.</p><p>In the last year alone, Ireland’s solar capacity jumped by over forty percent. A basic one-kilowatt solar system can produce close to 1,000 kilowatt-hours of energy annually—even in our climate—which adds up quickly when it’s helping to run everything from milking parlours to home heating.</p><p>And for many farmers, there’s a real satisfaction in knowing that they’re producing clean energy on the same land their family has worked for generations.</p><figure id="figure-004u1m9qsemalc632w" class=""><img id="004u1m9qsemalc632w" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1164669989/photo/solar-panels-in-the-park-background-row-of-small-solar-cell-panels-in-the-garden.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=_kagi8yCAEtot3PFPWRUHOHb8zJTgbJDI36NzNZWCyE=" alt="Solar panels in the park background. Row of small solar cell panels in the garden" title="Solar panels in the park background. Row of small solar cell panels in the garden" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1164669989/photo/solar-panels-in-the-park-background-row-of-small-solar-cell-panels-in-the-garden.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=_kagi8yCAEtot3PFPWRUHOHb8zJTgbJDI36NzNZWCyE=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Equestrian Services – Turning Passion into Practicality</h3><p>It’s no secret that Ireland has a strong equestrian tradition. What might be less well-known is how many farms are now turning that heritage into a reliable business.</p><p>Whether it’s riding schools, livery yards, or holiday trekking centres, horses are providing a new direction for farms that have the space, the knowledge, and the interest. In Galway, Flowerhill Equestrian Centre offers cross-country training and stays for riders from all over the world—a perfect example of how a bit of creativity and a love for horses can grow into something bigger.</p><p>Roughly four percent of farms in Ireland are now offering equine-related services, and with the wider equestrian sector contributing over a billion euro a year to the economy, there’s no shortage of demand.</p><figure id="figure-lm6irakr3kmalc7arl" class=""><img id="lm6irakr3kmalc7arl" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/913704870/photo/nothing-says-childhood-dream-like-learning-to-ride-a-pony.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=sGUm6p1ZBT70KQQXQKD63LZSAc51cnBWY_KVatn0EzM=" alt="Nothing says childhood dream like learning to ride a pony" title="Nothing says childhood dream like learning to ride a pony" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/913704870/photo/nothing-says-childhood-dream-like-learning-to-ride-a-pony.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=sGUm6p1ZBT70KQQXQKD63LZSAc51cnBWY_KVatn0EzM=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>How We Can Help – A Quiet Word and a Clear Plan</h3><p>Starting something new on the farm can feel daunting—especially when there’s already more than enough to be doing. But that’s where having the right support really matters.</p><p>We work with farmers across Ireland to figure out what’s possible and what’s practical, based on the land you’ve got, the time you can give, and the goals you have in mind. We don’t push one-size-fits-all solutions—we listen first, then help you build a plan that suits you and your family.</p><p>That might include:</p><ul><li>Helping you explore realistic diversification ideas for your farm.</li><li>Putting together funding applications that stand a chance.</li><li>Guiding you through planning and regulatory requirements.</li><li>Linking you with trusted professionals—planners, designers, renewable energy specialists and more.</li><li>Offering steady support as your idea takes shape, whether it’s a quick consultation or longer-term mentoring.<br></li></ul><p>We’re not here to complicate things—we’re here to help you find clarity and take the next step with a bit more confidence. Most of the time, it starts with a cup of tea and a good chat.</p><figure id="figure-ts6pkq0alwmalc9ms9" class=""><img id="ts6pkq0alwmalc9ms9" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/496628480/photo/farmer-and-financial-advisor.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=HEM19BlsaUCDS-zJxXiZ4yugbU2Ao9_uQDU2icAF7Wo=" alt="Farmer and Financial Advisor" title="Farmer and Financial Advisor" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/496628480/photo/farmer-and-financial-advisor.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=HEM19BlsaUCDS-zJxXiZ4yugbU2Ao9_uQDU2icAF7Wo=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>The landscape of Irish farming is changing, but so are the opportunities. Whether it’s welcoming guests onto your land, selling your own food, generating clean energy or opening the gate to horse lovers, there’s no single path forward—but there is momentum.</p><p>Diversification isn’t about walking away from tradition. It’s about taking what you already have—your land, your skills, your story—and putting it to work in a new way.</p><p>If you’re starting to wonder what else your farm could become, you’re not alone. And when you’re ready, we’re here to help you explore that next chapter.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>*By Anne Hayden MSc., Founder, The Informed Farmer Consultancy.</p><p><br></p>

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