Brand new festival launched in Laois

Laois County Council has launched the first-ever Laois Climate Action Festival, taking place in the county from October 6 to 23. 

Featuring 50 diverse events across the county, the festival aims to inspire climate action, spotlight sustainability, and showcase the incredible work of local partners. Curated by the newly formed Climate Action Section of Laois County Council, the programme highlights an array of climate-positive initiatives designed to engage the entire community in the effort to create a greener future and the best part is that all events are free to attend. CONTINUE READING BELOW PHOTO

Climate action staff Leah Nolan, Karen Moore, Lisa Doyle, Suzanne Dempsey, Patricia O’Rourke and Samantha McLeod with LCC interim chief executive Simon Walton and cathaoirleach Cllr Padraig Fleming at the launch of the Laois Climate Action Festival which runs from the 6th to 23rd October 2024. Photo: Alf Harvey.

The festival officially launched with a photocall that featured upcycled robots, created by Bernard Brady of the Portarlington Art Collective. These robots, made entirely from repurposed materials, encapsulate the festival’s central message of reducing waste through creativity. The robots are a powerful symbol of the innovative ways in which waste can be reimagined and reused. 

Speaking about the festival, Suzanne Dempsey, Climate Action Coordinator for Laois County Council, said: “The Laois Climate Action Festival is not only a platform to raise awareness but a celebration of the fantastic work being done in our community to promote sustainability. The programme has been carefully curated by our newly formed Climate Action Section to highlight local efforts and engage the public in creative and meaningful ways. We’re proud to showcase 50 events that offer something for everyone, encouraging a collective effort toward a more sustainable future.”

The festival’s extensive schedule includes a variety of workshops, seminars, and creative sessions, ranging from discussions on biodiversity and sustainability in schools, to upcycling projects and nature walks. Local organisations, including PPN, The Cube, Laois Libraries, Laois Partnership, and Laois Chamber Alliance, will host many of the events, providing educational opportunities and hands-on experiences for attendees. Standout events include the Climate Cocktail Club, the Laois premiere of Mrs. Robinson, and Colm O’Regan’s comedy gig “Climate Worrier”, combining entertainment with critical discussions on climate action. CONTINUE READING BELOW PHOTO

 Portarlington Art Collective brought their upcycled robots to County Hall on Wednesday for the Climate Action Festival launch.

Simon Walton, Interim Chief Executive of Laois County Council, stated:  “The Laois Climate Action Festival is a key initiative in our commitment to addressing climate change at a local level. It demonstrates the significant progress being made in fostering climate-positive projects and engaging the wider community. The newly established Climate Action Section has curated a comprehensive programme that not only raises awareness but actively involves our partners and the public in shaping a sustainable future. We are confident that this festival will have a lasting impact, encouraging meaningful action throughout the county.”

The Laois Climate Action Festival offers a diverse range of activities that cater to all interests and age groups, ensuring that everyone has an opportunity to participate in climate-positive actions. Whether through interactive workshops, insightful discussions, or creative exhibitions, the festival provides a platform for learning, innovation, and community involvement.

For more information on the Laois Climate Action Festival and to book events, visit https://laois.ie/laois-climate-action-festival/.