Let's Go Green with Aisling O'Rourke

This week on Let’s Go Green with Aisling O’Rourke on Midlands 103, we explore what it means to build a business with purpose and how our choices, big and small, can impact the environment. Fiona Parfrey of period care company Riley joins me to share their journey to becoming a B Corp certified company. We talk about what the certification means in practice and why businesses are embracing more sustainable and ethical models. We also take a closer look at a new report highlighting the amount of electricity artificial intelligence tools require. As digital tools become more embedded in our daily lives, what does this mean for our climate goals? Pat Kane of Reuzi returns to talk about her personal commitment to buy no new clothes in 2025. She shares the thinking behind the pledge and how others can reduce their environmental impact through conscious consumption. And we bring you news of a new climate and biodiversity group forming in Offaly, with the aim of supporting local environmental action. 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, community resilience and climate action in Ireland. If you'd like to get involved in the show email Aisling on hello@thecommunicationscoach.ie

This week on Let’s Go Green with Aisling O’Rourke on Midlands 103, we explore sustainability in farming and the events industry. Kenneth Gill, a beef farmer from County Offaly, shares what it means to farm for nature. We discuss the practical steps farmers can take to protect biodiversity while maintaining a viable business. Caroline O’Doherty, Environment Correspondent with the Irish Independent, looks ahead to a new summit focused on making festivals more environmentally friendly. From waste reduction to greener energy solutions, we explore how the events industry is adapting to sustainability challenges. 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, community resilience and climate action in Ireland. #LetsGoGreen #SustainableFarming #FarmForNature #GreenerFestivals #ClimateAction #Midlands103

This week on Let’s Go Green on Midlands 103, we’re looking at the practical choices and frontline efforts shaping Ireland’s environmental future. Sadhbh O' Neill joins me to discuss the nuts and bolts of choosing to go car free. From daily logistics to the wider environmental benefits, we explore what the shift really involves and how it can work in an Irish context. Chief Fire Officer Aidan Dempsey of Wicklow Fire Services Wicklow County Council shares details of a recent wildfire readiness exercise. As climate change increases the risk of extreme weather events, we look at how emergency services are preparing for the challenges ahead. Eva Mockler, Catchment Scientist with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Ireland, explains the agency’s new nitrogen level reporting system. We discuss how this tool can help track water quality and support more sustainable land and agricultural management. 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 resilience and climate action in Ireland.

This week on Let’s Go Green on Midlands 103, we're focusing on practical steps for improving energy efficiency and bringing empty homes back to life. Claire Irwin, Chartered Quantity Surveyor of Irwin Consulting, joins me to explain everything you need to know about applying for a grant to renovate a vacant or derelict home. From eligibility to the application process, we’ll guide you through how to make the most of this opportunity to revitalise unused properties. Paul O Reilly of Wat Footprint is also on the show to talk about energy audits for businesses. We’ll discuss what’s involved, what business owners can expect from the process, and how an audit can help reduce energy costs and improve sustainability. Tune in every Monday night at 7 PM on Midlands 103, or catch the podcast anytime on your favourite platform. Let’s Go Green is proudly sponsored by EirGrid Group, supporting essential conversations on sustainability and energy efficiency across Ireland.

Let's Go Green with Aisling O'Rourke

Let's Go Green with Aisling O'Rourke

This week on Let’s Go Green with Aisling O’Rourke on Midlands 103, we’re focusing on biodiversity, sustainable farming, and community health. Ricky Whelan, Biodiversity Officer with Offaly County Council, joins me to discuss the county’s upcoming Biodiversity Conference, showcasing the important work being done to protect and restore local ecosystems. We’ll explore why these initiatives matter and how they contribute to a healthier environment. Andrew Chilton of Farming for Nature shares insights into the real challenges Irish farmers face in meeting their environmental commitments. From policy demands to practical solutions, we’ll examine what’s needed to support farmers in balancing food production with sustainability. We’ll also highlight an important health survey taking place in the village of Ballylinan, County Laois. This initiative aims to gather insights into local health concerns and well-being, offering residents a chance to have their voices heard and shape future support services. Tune in every Monday night at 7 PM on Midlands 103, or listen to the podcast anytime on your favourite platform. Let’s Go Green is proudly sponsored by EirGrid Group, supporting important conversations about sustainability, the environment, and community well-being in Ireland.

This week on Let’s Go Green with Aisling O’Rourke on Midlands 103, we’re exploring innovation, sustainability, and how smart design can shape a better future. John Kinsella of Harcourt Technologies joins me to discuss the launch of Ireland’s first 3D-printed houses in County Louth. We’ll look at how this cutting-edge technology could revolutionise housing, making construction faster, more sustainable, and more efficient. Sgt. Graham Kavanagh, Crime Prevention Officer for Laois and Offaly, explains how crime prevention through environmental design has been included in the Programme for Government. We’ll break down what this means for communities and how smarter urban planning can help create safer spaces. With Valentine’s Day around the corner, Hans Zomer of Global Action Plan Ireland shares ideas for environmentally friendly gifts, proving that meaningful gestures don’t have to come at a cost to the planet. Tune in every Monday night at 7 PM on Midlands 103, or listen to the podcast anytime on your favourite platform. Let’s Go Green is proudly sponsored by EirGrid Group, supporting important conversations on sustainability and innovation in Ireland.

This week on Let’s Go Green with Aisling O’Rourke on Midlands 103, we’re focusing on Ireland’s response to environmental challenges, from extreme weather to invasive species. Caroline O’Doherty, Environment Correspondent for the Irish Independent, joins me to discuss Ireland’s readiness to handle significant weather events in light of the recent Storm Eowyn. We’ll examine what needs to be done to protect communities and infrastructure as these events become more frequent. Dr. Anthea Lacchia shares insights from her investigative work with TheJournal.ie, uncovering the financial burden invasive species place on county councils across Ireland. We’ll discuss the scale of the problem and the need for urgent action to mitigate its impact. Tune in every Monday night at 7 PM on Midlands 103, or catch the podcast anytime on your preferred platform. Let’s Go Green is proudly sponsored by EirGrid Group, supporting vital conversations about sustainability and environmental resilience.

This week on Let’s Go Green with Aisling O’Rourke on Midlands 103, we’re tackling key issues in sustainability and showcasing grassroots innovation. Dr. Cara Augustenborg of the Climate Advisory Council and UCD joins me to dissect the Irish Government’s Programme for Government, focusing on its environmental commitments and policies. Together, we explore progress and challenges across sectors such as transport, education, and energy. From addressing climate change to enhancing biodiversity, we highlight the critical need for public understanding and political action to drive meaningful change. I’m also joined by Nora Fahy of Roscommon Women’s Network to discuss their inspiring Cycle Up business. By upcycling waste fabric from charity shops, they create unique, one-of-a-kind items while promoting sustainability and creativity in the local community. Tune in every Monday night at 7 PM on Midlands 103, or listen to the podcast anytime on your favourite platform. Let’s Go Green is proudly sponsored by EirGrid Group, supporting important conversations about Ireland’s sustainable future.

This week on Let’s Go Green with Aisling O’Rourke on Midlands 103, we’re exploring innovation and practical sustainability in action. George Hussey, Secretariat Manager of the Climate Change Advisory Council Ireland, joins me to share his reflections on the incredible projects he witnessed at the BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition. From climate solutions to groundbreaking ideas, we’ll delve into how young minds are shaping a greener future. Patricia Kane of reuzi introduces us to Project Pan, a practical initiative aimed at encouraging more sustainable habits in everyday life. If you’ve never heard of Project Pan, don’t worry—we’ll explain everything and show how it can make a difference.

This week on Let’s Go Green with Aisling O’Rourke on Midlands 103, we’re starting the new year with practical advice for living and working more sustainably. Caraldine Nolan joins me to explain how the Ecoscore can help you make more environmentally friendly food choices. From groceries to meals, learn how small changes can make a big difference. For businesses, Orla Martin of the Local Enterprise Office Offaly shares details on the supports available to help companies become more sustainable in their operations, offering valuable insights for those looking to embrace greener practices. I’ll also share recommendations on how you can enhance your green skills in 2025, equipping yourself for a future that values sustainability and innovation. Tune in every Monday night at 7 PM on Midlands 103, or catch the podcast on your favourite platform. Let’s Go Green is proudly sponsored by EirGrid Group, supporting conversations about a sustainable Ireland.

This week on Let’s Go Green with Aisling O' Rourke on Midlands 103, we’re focusing on climate action and creativity as we close out the year. Dr. Marie Donnelly, Chair of the Climate Change Advisory Council Ireland, joins me to discuss the critical work of the council, their recommendations for the incoming government, and her hopes for Ireland’s climate future. It’s an important conversation for anyone invested in sustainability and policy change. I also speak with award-winning photographer James Crombie, who shares his expert advice for budding photographers looking to capture stunning images this season. Whether you’re just starting out or want to sharpen your skills, his insights are not to be missed. Tune in every Monday night at 7 PM on Midlands 103, or catch the podcast on your preferred platform. Let’s Go Green is proudly sponsored by EirGrid Group, supporting meaningful conversations about Ireland’s sustainable future.

This week on Let’s Go Green with Aisling O' Rourke Midlands 103, we’re bringing you a festive mix of sustainability insights and last-minute Christmas inspiration. Neil McCabe, also known as the Green Fireman, joins me to discuss his groundbreaking work in helping fire services become more environmentally friendly. We’ll also talk about his exciting new project with the Laois Fire Service Laois County Council and what it means for sustainability in the emergency services sector. Niall Hatch of BirdWatch Ireland shares his expert advice on how to care for our feathered friends during the winter months. Learn what’s safe to feed them and what to avoid to ensure they stay healthy and happy. I’ll also be sharing a few book recommendations for those last-minute Christmas presents, perfect for anyone looking for meaningful and thoughtful gifts this holiday season. Tune in every Monday night at 7 PM on Midlands 103, or listen to the podcast anytime on your favourite platform. Let’s Go Green is proudly sponsored by EirGrid Group, supporting conversations about sustainability and Ireland’s green future. #LetsGoGreen #Sustainability #GreenFireman #BirdWatchIreland #Midlands103

On this week's show, it's a festive edition as Aisling discusses avoiding food waste this festive season with Yvonne Carty of Hey Pesto and she asks "how many toys do we really need?" with Giorgia Aneil - creator of the Toy Library.

This week on Let’s Go Green with Aisling O’Rourke on Midlands 103, we’re tackling some of the most pressing environmental and sustainability issues facing Ireland: • Ireland’s €20 Billion Climate Bill: Dr. Eddie Casey of the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council explores the financial implications of not meeting our climate commitments. • Data Centres and Fossil Fuels: Conor O’Carroll of TheJournal.ie delves into how data centres are turning to fossil fuels to bridge the electricity gap. • Storm-Resistant Forests: Ross McCann, a UCD researcher, shares insights from his study on making new forest plantations more resilient to storms. Join us for these important discussions every Monday night at 7 PM on Midlands 103. Let’s Go Green is kindly sponsored by EirGrid Group.

Let’s Go Green with Aisling O’Rourke is back this week on Midlands 103, bringing you insightful conversations about sustainability, innovation, and the environment! This week, we’re diving into: Data Centres – How much energy are they really using? Creative Sustainability – Aoife McHugh shares her ingenious reusable Christmas crackers, perfect for a greener holiday season! Weather Warnings – Alan O’Reilly of Carlow Weather explains why Ireland urgently needs a new emergency weather warning system.

With just days left before we go to the polls on this week's Let's Go Green with Aisling O' Rourke we assess the climate policies of all the major political parties. Caroline O'Doherty of the Irish Independent takes us through what is being promised in terms of combating climate change. Also after a disappointing COP 29 Prof John Sweeney of Maynooth University joins us to assess whether the global climate summit has now run its course. He discusses what came up during the talks in Baku. And while Friday may well be polling day it's also black friday so Pat Kane of Reuzi.ie joins us to offer some tips on how we can avoid overconsuming this festive season. Let's Go Green with Aisling O' Rourke airs every Monday at 7pm on Midlands 103.

This week on Let’s Go Green on Midlands 103, we’re diving into the future and imagining what Athlone will look like in 2050. Dr Lollie Mancey Programme Director of the UCD Innovation Academy joins Aisling O' Rourke to discuss Ireland's first inland city. Also on the show this week we find out why a Meath builder is giving away over 100,000 trees. Paddy Mangan of Freetrees.ie speaks to Aisling about how his daughters have inspired him to create a tribe of tree planting volunteers across the island and how they are now turning their minds to creating red squirrel corridors across the land. With thanks to Eirgrid for sponsoring this week’s episode! Let's Go Green with Aisling O' Rourke airs every Monday at 7pm on Midlands 103 and can be found wherever you get your podcasts.

As COP29 unfolds in Azerbaijan, global leaders, scientists, and activists are tackling some of the biggest questions around climate change. This week on Let’s Go Green with Aisling O’Rourke, we bring you a local perspective on these pressing issues. Dr. Laura Kirwan from County Laois joins us to discuss the critical shifts in the food service industry that impact our climate. Eoin Morton from Skillnet Ireland talks about the launch of a new Offshore Wind Academy, aimed at helping people upskill in Ireland’s growing green economy. Jacinta Barrins shares her inspiring journey across Ireland, educating the over-60s about climate action and its relevance to all generations. Catch Let’s Go Green on Midlands 103 every Monday at 7 pm, or tune in anytime on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Thanks to EirGrid Group for their support. Want to get involved? Contact Aisling at hello@thecommunicationscoach.ie.