Let's Go Green with Aisling O'Rourke

This week on Let’s Go Green with Aisling O’Rourke on Midlands 103, we’re exploring biodiversity, sustainable homes and the power of volunteering. Lisa Doyle, Biodiversity Officer with Laois County Council, joins me to talk about the brand new Portlaoise Seed Library. We find out how it works, why seed saving matters and how the initiative aims to support biodiversity while encouraging more people to grow their own plants and vegetables. Shane Murphy of Ashgrove Renewables joins the programme to discuss an upcoming event in the Mullingar Park Hotel designed to answer your questions about the derelict and vacant homes grants scheme. If you are considering renovating a vacant property, this event will offer practical advice on the supports available and how to get started. And Hans Zomer of Global Action Plan Ireland talks to us about the Year of the Sustainable Volunteer. We explore how volunteering can contribute to climate action while also helping to tackle loneliness and strengthen communities. Tune in every Monday night at 7pm on Midlands 103 or listen back on your preferred podcast platform. Let’s Go Green is proudly sponsored by EirGrid Group.

Let's Go Green with Aisling O'Rourke

Alan Wyley of Energy Cloud joins me to discuss the reality of energy poverty in Ireland. We explore how surplus renewable energy can be redirected to households in need and what more can be done to ensure a fair and just transition. Pat Hunt, Vice Chair of Irish Fire Safety Engineers, returns to talk about fire safety in the home, with a particular focus on the rise in electronic gadgets bought through social media platforms. We discuss the risks, what to watch out for and the practical steps you can take to keep your household safe. Roisin Fitzgerald of Clean Coasts tells us about their latest photography competition, inviting people to capture the beauty and fragility of Ireland’s coastal environment. We talk about how creativity can play a role in raising awareness and inspiring action. If you’d like to suggest a topic or guest for a future episode, you can contact me at hello@thecommunicationscoach.ie. Tune in every Monday night at 7pm on Midlands 103 or catch the podcast anytime on your preferred platform. Let’s Go Green is proudly sponsored by EirGrid Group.

This week on Let’s Go Green with Aisling O’Rourke on Midlands 103, we explore how global warnings, local insights and early education all play a role in shaping Ireland’s climate response. John Gibbons, environmental journalist and author of The Lie of the Land, joins me to discuss the significance of the Doomsday Clock moving to 85 seconds to midnight. We look at what this symbolic moment says about the state of global risk, from climate change to biodiversity collapse, and why it matters for Ireland. Deputy John Clendennen, a member of the Oireachtas Committee on Climate, reflects on what Ireland can learn from Storm Eowyn. He shares insights from the committee’s recent findings and what’s needed to strengthen local resilience in the face of more extreme weather events. And Dr Nóirín Burke of the Marine Institute’s Explorers Programme talks about the importance of introducing young people to ocean literacy. We explore how education is key to building long-term awareness of our marine environment and climate responsibility and how your school can get involved. If you’d like to suggest a topic or guest for a future episode, you can reach me at hello@thecommunicationscoach.ie. Tune in every Monday night at 7pm on Midlands 103 or listen back on your preferred podcast platform. Let’s Go Green is proudly sponsored by EirGrid Group, supporting informed conversations on climate action, science and sustainability across Ireland.

This week on Let’s Go Green with Aisling O’Rourke on Midlands 103, we’re covering safety at home, the environmental impact of invasive species, and a creative approach to sustainable celebrations. Pat Hunt, Vice Chair of Irish Fire Safety Engineers, joins me to talk about fire safety in the home, with a particular focus on the rise in electronic gadgets bought through social media platforms. We discuss the risks, what to watch out for, and how to keep your household safe. Caroline O’Doherty, Climate and Science Correspondent with the Irish Times, reports on the growing problem of soaring Sika deer populations. We explore the ecological impact of this non-native species and what’s being done to manage their spread. And Bronwyn Walsh of Ballintubbert Gardens and House shares details of their upcoming Pre-Loved Wedding Dress Fair. The event is aimed at helping couples embrace sustainability while celebrating in style. We look at how rethinking wedding traditions can reduce waste and bring new meaning to your big day. If you’d like to suggest a topic or guest for a future episode, you can get in touch at hello@thecommunicationscoach.ie. Tune in every Monday night at 7pm on Midlands 103 or listen back on your preferred podcast platform. Let’s Go Green is proudly sponsored by EirGrid Group.

This week on Let’s Go Green with Aisling O’Rourke on Midlands 103, we’re looking at the intersection of energy policy, sustainable fashion and the future of Irish forestry. Jerry Mac Evilly of Friends of the Earth joins me to discuss the Government’s latest Large Energy User Action Plan and what it means for emissions, investment and the wider push for a just energy transition. We examine who stands to benefit and where the environmental risks may lie. Ngozi Murphy of House of Abia talks about the power of upcycling our wardrobes. She shares her insights on how to dress with purpose, reduce textile waste and see fashion as a form of self-expression rooted in sustainability. And we hear from John Normanly, a forestry farmer, and Sarah Keating of the RDS Foundation about the RDS Forestry Awards. We explore how farmers and landowners across the country are being recognised for their commitment to biodiversity, innovation and long-term forest management. If you’d like to suggest a topic or guest for a future episode, you can contact me at hello@thecommunicationscoach.ie. Tune in every Monday night at 7pm on Midlands 103 or catch the podcast anytime on your preferred platform. Let’s Go Green is proudly sponsored by EirGrid Group, supporting informed conversations on sustainability, energy and rural innovation across Ireland.

This week on Let’s Go Green with Aisling O’Rourke on Midlands 103, we’re focusing on biodiversity, responsible consumption and what really happens when you recycle your Christmas tree. Ricky Whelan, Biodiversity Officer with Offaly County Council, joins me to talk about new bat roosting facilities in Edenderry. We discuss why these roosts are important, how they support local biodiversity, and the role communities can play in protecting our native bat species. Sustainability Journalist Jo Linehan explains what happens to your Christmas tree once it’s recycled. From wood chipping to composting, we take a look at how your tree gets a second life. Pat Kane of Reuzi returns to the show to talk about Project Pan, an initiative designed to help reduce our dependence on plastic and overconsumption in the cosmetics space. We discuss the practical ways we can take part and make long-term, low-waste habits part of everyday life. If you’d like to suggest a topic or guest for a future episode, you can reach me at hello@thecommunicationscoach.ie. Tune in every Monday night at 7pm on Midlands 103 or listen back on your preferred podcast platform. Let’s Go Green is proudly sponsored by EirGrid Group, supporting informed conversations on sustainability, biodiversity and community action across Ireland.

Tonight on Let's Go Green with Zoe Ryan we are embracing the concept of new year, new me, considering how we can engage in more sustainable, environmentally friendly practices in 2026. From donating to our local charity shops to educating ourselves on climate change to making more conscious shopping choices. Ciara Coleman, Head Of Business Development & Growth at Vision Ireland joins us in studio to discuss donation does and don'ts. UN Diplomat and Climate Mentor Jacinta Barrins fills us in on her upcoming course on climate change, geared at over 55s, taking place in Westmeath. And Offaly Dairy Farmer Paul Molloy of Boora Bainne reveals what they will be doing with the funding recently awarded to them by Circular.ie. If you are taking on any 'green'-orientated resolutions this year, send them into the Midlands 103 text or Whatsapp line on 083 30 10 103 ahead of tonight's show.

Let's Go Green with Zoe Ryan

Let's Go Green with Zoe Ryan

This week on Let’s Go Green with Aisling O’Rourke on Midlands 103, it’s our festive special; packed with practical tips to help you celebrate Christmas in a more sustainable and mindful way. Yvonne Carty of Hey Pesto joins me with her top advice for keeping your Christmas food both budget-friendly and low-waste. From meal planning to creative ways to use up leftovers, she also shares a few festive recipes that are sure to please without piling up the bin. Aoife McHugh of Timeless Celebrations Ireland offers thoughtful suggestions for sustainable gifting. Whether you’re buying local, reusing, or creating something handmade, Aoife shares plenty of ideas to help make this season special without adding to the environmental burden. As we wrap up the final live show of the year, I want to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has supported Let’s Go Green throughout 2025. I’m taking a short Christmas break and I’m delighted that Zoe Ryan will be stepping in to present the show over the next few weeks. If you’d like to suggest a topic or guest for the New Year, you can reach me at hello@thecommunicationscoach.ie. Tune in every Monday night at 7pm on Midlands 103 or listen back on your preferred podcast platform. Let’s Go Green is proudly sponsored by EirGrid Group. #LetsGoGreen #SustainableChristmas #LowWasteLiving #EcoGifting #Midlands103

This week on Let’s Go Green with Aisling O’Rourke on Midlands 103, we’re focusing on practical ways to save energy at home and celebrating local leadership in climate action. Stephen Farrell of the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland joins me to talk through how you can tackle rising energy bills and what grants are available to help make your home more energy efficient. From insulation to solar panels, we break down what support is on offer and how to apply. We also meet two of the Midlands’ newest Climate Ambassadors. Teacher Clare Faherty of Sacred Heart Secondary School in Tullamore and student Angie Sewell share the inspiring work they’re doing to promote climate awareness in their school and wider community. And if you’re interested in becoming a Climate Ambassador yourself, there’s still time to apply. Visit climateambassador.ie before December 10th to get involved. If you’d like to suggest a topic or guest for a future episode, get in touch at hello@thecommunicationscoach.ie. Tune in every Monday night at 7pm on Midlands 103 or listen back on your preferred podcast platform. Let’s Go Green is proudly sponsored by EirGrid Group.

This week on Let’s Go Green with Aisling O’Rourke on Midlands 103, we’re looking at climate science, community-led energy solutions and how to celebrate Christmas more sustainably. Dr Clare Bergin of the ICARUS Climate Research Centre at Maynooth University joins us to discuss a new study examining the human impact on climate change and its role in the increasing frequency of extreme rainfall events, including the heavy downpours experienced during Storm Claudia. Rita Guinan and Una Watkins from the Five Alley Local Development Group share the story behind their “solar meitheal” – a community-led initiative that’s aiming to deliver solar PV to over 100 households. Through the Sustainable Communities Initiative, they’re helping to make renewable energy more accessible in their area. And we look ahead to a Circular Christmas event happening this Saturday at the GAA Centre in Tullamore. With toy swaps, a Teddy Bear Hospital and even a Christmas jumper exchange, the event offers fun, practical ways for families to take part in the circular economy this festive season. Free tickets are available on eventbrite.ie under the-toy-library-circular-christmas If you’d like to suggest a topic or guest for a future episode, you can contact me at hello@thecommunicationscoach.ie. Tune in every Monday night at 7pm on Midlands 103 or catch the podcast on your preferred platform. Let’s Go Green is proudly sponsored by EirGrid Group. #LetsGoGreen #ClimateScience #SolarMeitheal #CircularEconomy #SustainableChristmas #Midlands103

This week on Let’s Go Green with Aisling O’Rourke on Midlands 103, we bring you a mix of global climate developments, national policy in housing and skills, and an inspiring sustainability initiative for young people. Caroline O’Doherty, Climate Correspondent with the Irish Times, returns with an update on the disappointing conclusion of COP30 in Belém, Brazil. While the final outcomes fell short of expectations, there is a glimmer of hope with a new climate conference planned for Colombia in the spring, where up to 90 countries have committed to working together on action around fossil fuels. John Kelly of the Mount Lucas National Construction and Training Campus joins me to talk about modern methods of construction. Frequently mentioned in the government’s new housing plans, we explore what training is available for young people entering the sector and for construction workers looking to upskill or retrain. And Midlands 103’s own Zoe Ryan reports on Resparkled, a new initiative from Vision Ireland and Junk Kouture. Aimed at teenagers across the country, it encourages young people to reimagine their wardrobes in a more sustainable and eco-conscious way. If you’d like to suggest a topic or guest for a future episode, you can reach me at hello@thecommunicationscoach.ie. Tune in every Monday night at 7pm on Midlands 103 or catch the podcast on your preferred platform. Let’s Go Green is proudly sponsored by EirGrid Group, supporting informed conversations on sustainability, innovation and climate action across Ireland.

This week on Let’s Go Green with Aisling O’Rourke on Midlands 103, we’re bringing you updates from the global climate stage, corporate sustainability insights and a new grassroots initiative in the midlands. Caroline O’Doherty, Climate and Science Correspondent with the Irish Times, joins us from Brazil with the latest developments from COP30. We discuss the key issues being negotiated, Ireland’s role in the talks, and the possibility of an Irish COP being hosted in the future. Caroline Hoffman of The Cube and Amanda Glancy of Siro join me to talk about their recent sustainability report. We explore how collaboration between business and innovation hubs is driving climate action, and what their findings mean for the future of sustainable enterprise in Ireland. And there’s news from the Offaly Climate and Biodiversity Action Group, who are launching a new Climate Café in Clara. We take a look at how this community-led initiative aims to create space for conversation, connection and climate awareness. If you’d like to suggest a topic or guest for a future episode, you can get in touch with me at hello@thecommunicationscoach.ie. Tune in every Monday night at 7pm on Midlands 103 or listen back on your preferred podcast platform. Let’s Go Green is proudly sponsored by EirGrid Group, supporting informed conversations on sustainability, innovation and community action across Ireland.

This week on Let’s Go Green with Aisling O’Rourke on Midlands 103, we’re exploring the powerful links between health, transport and nature-friendly farming. Dr Caoimhe Clarke of the Climate and Health Alliance and Irish Doctors for the Environment joins me to discuss their new report, Active Travel: The Magic Pill. We talk about the wide-reaching health benefits of walking, cycling and reducing our reliance on cars—and why active travel should be seen as essential public health policy, not just a transport option. Margaret Edgill of Mount Briscoe Farm also joins me to talk about her work as a regenerative farmer and her recent recognition as a Farming for Nature Ambassador. We discuss how nature orientated farming supports biodiversity, builds resilience and reconnects communities with the land. Tune in every Monday night at 7pm on Midlands 103 or catch the podcast anytime on your preferred platform. Let’s Go Green is proudly sponsored by EirGrid Group.

This week on Let’s Go Green with Aisling O’Rourke on Midlands 103, we examine the environmental commitments shaping both national and local conversations in Ireland. Dr. Cara Augustenborg Augustenborg joins me to assess the climate change promises from both Presidential candidates; Catherine Connolly (Independent) and Heather Humphreys (Fine Gael), ahead of Friday’s vote. We look at how their campaigns are addressing the climate crisis and what this could mean for Ireland’s environmental future. Dr Hugh Feeley of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Ireland walks us through the agency’s latest findings on water quality. From agricultural pressures to urban waste, we discuss what the data tells us about the state of Ireland’s rivers, lakes and coastal waters. And Professor Yvonne Buckley of the Climate Change Advisory Council Ireland issues a stark warning on Ireland’s biodiversity loss. We explore what’s at risk and why urgent action is needed to halt further decline. Tune in every Monday night at 7pm on Midlands 103 or listen back on your preferred podcast platform. Let’s Go Green is proudly sponsored by EirGrid Group.

This week on Let’s Go Green with Aisling O’Rourke on Midlands 103, we’re examining how national policy, community safety and business leadership intersect with sustainability. Niall Conroy of the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council joins me to reflect on Budget 2026 and what it does—or doesn’t—deliver in terms of environmental investment. We discuss where the funding is going, what’s missing, and how it aligns with Ireland’s climate commitments. Inspector Ralph Holmes shares practical advice on getting your vehicle winter ready. As the colder months set in, we look at how to stay safe on the roads while also keeping fuel use efficient and responsible. And Neil Skeffington of Novelplast explains how his company is putting the social into ESG. From supporting staff wellbeing to engaging with the local community, we explore what meaningful sustainability looks like beyond environmental metrics. Tune in every Monday night at 7pm on Midlands 103 or catch the podcast anytime on your preferred platform. Let’s Go Green is proudly sponsored by EirGrid Group, supporting informed conversations on sustainability, resilience and climate leadership across Ireland.

This week on Let’s Go Green with Aisling O’Rourke on Midlands 103, we’re focusing on taking climate action at home and in the community, and we mark the loss of a truly unique voice in Irish environmental storytelling. Odran Casey of Electric Ireland joins me to explain the key steps involved in installing solar panels on your home. We look at what homeowners need to consider, the grants available, and how solar energy can contribute to long-term savings and sustainability. Hans Zomer of Global Action Plan - GAP Ireland speaks to us ahead of Community Gardens Week. We explore the role of community gardens in building resilience, improving wellbeing and bringing people together around a shared commitment to the environment. And I pay tribute to Manchán Magan, who passed away on Friday at the age of 55. A writer, broadcaster and passionate advocate for Ireland’s natural and cultural heritage, Manchán’s work inspired many to see the world, and our place in it with greater care and curiosity. Tune in every Monday night at 7pm on Midlands 103 or catch the podcast anytime on your preferred platform. Let’s Go Green is proudly sponsored by EirGrid Group, supporting informed conversations on sustainability, community action and climate leadership across Ireland.

This week on Let’s Go Green with Aisling O’Rourke on Midlands 103, we’re looking at how environmental challenges are being investigated, understood and tackled, from our rivers to our recycling bins. Caroline O’Doherty, Climate and Science Correspondent with the Irish Times, joins me to discuss the mystery surrounding a major fish kill in County Cork. We explore what is known so far, how incidents like this are investigated, and the wider implications for water quality and regulation. Dr Compost, also known as Craig Benton, joins us to help improve how we manage our waste at home. From recycling myths to composting tips, he breaks down how to reduce confusion and get it right. And Tom Popple joins me to talk about the Climate Carnival taking place in Laois this week. With events, workshops and activities for all ages, it’s a chance for communities to come together and learn more about climate action in a fun and engaging way. Tune in every Monday night at 7pm on Midlands 103 or listen back on your preferred podcast platform. Let’s Go Green is proudly sponsored by EirGrid Group.