Eco Chats: Carlow's Eco Journey

Carlow County Council

About Carlow's Eco Journey: Carlow's Eco Journey shines a spotlight on the county's vibrant environmental actions quietly taking place, and the inspiring individuals and groups behind them. From conservation efforts and heritage protection to inclusive green initiatives and creative climate solutions, each episode captures the spirit of collaboration and care that defines Carlow's approach to climate action. In our latest season, hosted by Conor Reid, listeners will hear inspiring stories from creative artists, community gardeners, schools, public transport providers, community hubs, energy advisors and sustainability champions. From helping families reduce their energy costs and cutting textile waste, to creating greener neighbourhoods and stronger communities, each episode celebrates the practical actions that are making a real difference across the county. Season 1 is hosted by broadcaster Alan Swan, and features engaging conversations with community groups, educators, activists, and volunteers who are making a real difference across County Carlow. From conservation efforts and heritage protection to inclusive green initiatives and creative climate solutions, the podcast captures the spirit of collaboration and care that defines Carlow’s approach to climate action. Eco Chats is a reminder that climate action is not just happening at a national level. It is happening here in Carlow every day, driven by local people who care deeply about their communities and are helping to build a more sustainable future for everyone. For more information on this series go to https://carlow.ie/ Credits: Produced by Carlow County Council in association with Creative Ireland Season 2: Hosted by Conor Reid. Executive Producer: Dee Sewell (Carlow County Council). Sound Production, Design & Research: The Podcast Studios Season 1: Hosted by Alan Swan. Executive Producer: Dee Sewell (Carlow County Council). Sound Production, Design & Research: SwanMcG. Special thanks to: Carlow County Council Environmental & Climate Action Team, Creative Ireland Carlow & Stakeholders. For more information:

Episodes

  1. 4d ago

    Transport

    In this episode of Carlow Eco Chats, we take to the streets of to explore the connected network of sustainable travel options in rural and urban Carlow. The episode dives into active travel initiatives, electric vehicle (EV) adoption, and the crucial role of public transport in building safer, greener communities. Featuring interviews with transport experts and local residents, the discussion tackles common misconceptions about sustainable transport and highlights how infrastructure upgrades are shifting long-term habits. First up is Terry Brennan, Senior Communications Manager for Active Travel at the National Transport Authority (NTA), who points out that active travel encompasses walking, wheeling, and cycling for everyday journeys – not just cycle paths! Brennan discusses the NTA's work with local councils on safety-focused infrastructure like junction tightening and the Safe Routes to School program, which aims to reduce morning traffic congestion while encouraging healthy habits in children. Next, Carlow engineer and EV driver Brian O’Donovan shares his personal transition to electric driving, detailing the practicalities of rural commuting, home charging, rapid motorway networks, and the broader environmental awareness that comes with driving electric. Closing out the episode, Jackie Mealy, General Manager of Local Link Carlow, Kilkenny, Wicklow, breaks down the evolution of rural public transport. From its origins as flexible, demand-responsive door-to-door services to integrated daily regional routes, Local Link has grown into a vital lifeline serving commuters, students, and tourists across rural Ireland.   Credits: Produced by the Environment Department of Carlow County Council in partnership with the Carlow Arts Office and Creative Ireland.Hosted by Conor Reid and edited by Dan Wilcox, The Podcast Studios.Executive Producer: Dee Sewell, Carlow County Council.

    Transport

  2. Oct 8

    Community Gardens

    Carlow’s Eco Chat Podcast is back for another season! This popular local podcast continues to shine a light on the people, groups and volunteers across Carlow who are quietly taking on some of the biggest challenges of our time. Throughout the new season, listeners will hear inspiring stories from creative artists, community gardeners, schools, public transport providers, community hubs, energy advisors and sustainability champions. From helping families reduce their energy costs and cutting textile waste, to creating greener neighbourhoods and stronger communities, each episode celebrates the practical actions that are making a real difference across the county. Eco Chat is a reminder that climate action is not just happening at a national level. It is happening here in Carlow every day, driven by local people who care deeply about their communities and are helping to build a more sustainable future for everyone.   Credits: Produced by the Environment Department of Carlow County Council in partnership with the Carlow Arts Office and Creative Ireland.Hosted by Conor Reid, HeadStuff Podcasts.Executive Producer: Dee Sewell, Carlow County Council.A special word of thanks to the Environment, Climate, Arts and Library Teams at Carlow County Council, and to all the wonderful people in our communities who agreed to share their inspiring stories with us.   Episode 1. In this episode, Conor chats with Dan from An Gairdín Beo and Sharon from Bagenalstown Community Garden about all things community growing. From sharing food and gardening tips to bringing people together, they discuss how these spaces are helping to create greener, healthier communities while supporting biodiversity, reducing waste and building connections between people of all ages. It's a warm and inspiring conversation that shows how small local actions can grow into something really special.

    Community Gardens

  3. 11/28/2025

    Inside Carlow County Council

    In this episode, host Alan Swan steps inside Carlow County Council to meet the people driving climate action from within the organisation. Senior Executive Officer Tadhg Madden, Environmental Awareness Officer Dee Sewell, and Climate Action Coordinator Jeanette O’Brien share how a small county is delivering real change through practical and ambitious initiatives. From retrofitting homes and supporting community projects to developing rain gardens, promoting circular fashion, and pioneering Ireland’s first low carbon fire engine, their work shows how collaboration, creativity and everyday commitment can make a big difference. Carlow proves that meaningful climate action often begins with simple ideas, strong partnerships and a determination to keep moving forward. About Carlow’s Eco Journey Carlow’s Eco Journey highlights the county’s growing environmental movement and the inspiring people behind it. Each episode explores how communities, volunteers and local leaders are taking action, protecting heritage, and building a more sustainable future. Credits Produced by Carlow County Council in association with Creative IrelandHosted by Alan SwanExecutive Producer: Dee SewellSound Production, Design and Research: SwanMcGSpecial thanks to Carlow County Council Environmental and Climate Action Team, Creative Ireland Carlow and stakeholdersThis project is funded and supported by Creative Ireland Carlow and Carlow Arts Office. For more information: https://carlow.ie/

    Inside Carlow County Council

  4. 11/20/2025

    Environmental Groups

    Across Carlow, small groups of volunteers are quietly taking on some of the biggest challenges of our time. They are planting pocket forests in housing estates, pulling invasive species from riverbanks, running sold-out climate events, gathering neighbours for film screenings, and teaching people how to ferment, forage and reconnect with nature. In this episode, host Alan Swan meets Molly Aylesbury, Chair of the County Carlow Environmental Network (CCEN), and Pam Butler of Ballin Temple Nature Sanctuary. Through their stories, we discover how finding your tribe, sharing skills, and supporting one another can transform concern into collective action. Their work shows that environmental change often begins with community, curiosity and the simple decision to start where you are. About Carlow’s Eco Journey Carlow’s Eco Journey shines a spotlight on the county’s vibrant environmental actions and the inspiring individuals and groups behind them. From conservation efforts and heritage protection to inclusive green initiatives and creative climate solutions, each episode captures the spirit of collaboration and care that defines Carlow’s approach to climate action. Credits Produced by Carlow County Council in association with Creative IrelandHosted by Alan SwanExecutive Producer: Dee Sewell (Carlow County Council)Sound Production, Design and Research: SwanMcGSpecial thanks to Carlow County Council Environmental and Climate Action Team, Creative Ireland Carlow and stakeholdersThis project is funded and supported by Creative Ireland Carlow and Carlow Arts Office. For more information: https://carlow.ie/

    Environmental Groups

  5. 11/13/2025

    Tidy Towns

    There's a man in Bagenalstown who has been tending to his town for 55 years. A man in Tullow celebrating 30 years of community care. And a designer in Carlow Town who's discovered that belonging to a place means becoming its custodian. In this episode, host Alan Swan meets Paddy Gardiner of the Bagenalstown Improvement Group, Will Paton of Tullow Tidy Towns, and Matt Cocci, Chair of Carlow Tidy Towns. Together, they reveal how small, consistent acts, planting pollinators, painting benches, collecting rainwater, and fighting graffiti with art, have helped shape cleaner, kinder, more connected communities across Carlow. Their stories remind us that environmental action doesn't always come from policies or grand plans, but from friendship, pride, and showing up week after week to care for the place you call home. About Carlow's Eco Journey Carlow's Eco Journey shines a spotlight on the county's vibrant environmental actions and the inspiring individuals and groups behind them. From conservation efforts and heritage protection to inclusive green initiatives and creative climate solutions, each episode captures the spirit of collaboration and care that defines Carlow's approach to climate action. CreditsProduced by Carlow County Council in association with Creative IrelandHosted by Alan SwanExecutive Producer: Dee Sewell (Carlow County Council)Sound Production, Design & Research: SwanMcGSpecial thanks to: Carlow County Council Environmental & Climate Action Team, Creative Ireland Carlow and StakeholdersThis project is funded and supported by Creative Ireland Carlow and Carlow Arts Office. For more information: https://carlow.ie/

    Tidy Towns

  6. 11/06/2025

    Inclusivity

    In this episode, host Alan Swan speaks with Dolly Dunne from the Irish Wheelchair Association and Trevor Gillespie from the Delta Centre to discover how Carlow is proving that true sustainability isn't possible without accessibility. From specially designed raised garden beds to sensory gardens that calm the mind and restore the spirit, this episode reveals an essential truth: when we design environmental projects with accessibility at their core, we create better spaces for everyone. About Carlow's Eco Journey: Carlow's Eco Journey shines a spotlight on the county's vibrant environmental actions quietly taking place, and the inspiring individuals and groups behind them. From conservation efforts and heritage protection to inclusive green initiatives and creative climate solutions, each episode captures the spirit of collaboration and care that defines Carlow's approach to climate action. Credits: Produced by Carlow County Council in association with Creative Ireland. Hosted by Alan Swan. Executive Producer: Dee Sewell (Carlow County Council). Sound Production, Design & Research: SwanMcG. Special thanks to: Carlow County Council Environmental & Climate Action Team, Creative Ireland Carlow & Stakeholders. This project is funded and supported by Creative Ireland Carlow and Carlow Arts Office. For more information: https://carlow.ie/

    Inclusivity

  7. 10/30/2025

    Young People

    Eight-year-olds conducting energy audits. University students partnering with local organisations on sustainability projects. A generation that doesn't need to be convinced climate action matters - they already know. In this episode, host Alan Swan speaks with Susanne Keating from Carlow Educate Together National School and David Ryan from South East Technological University to discover how young people in Carlow aren't waiting for permission to create change. From building bug hotels and wildflower meadows to implementing real-world circular economy solutions, this episode reveals that the next generation isn't paralysed by eco-anxiety - they're activated by eco-action. About Carlow's Eco Journey: Carlow's Eco Journey shines a spotlight on the county's vibrant environmental actions quietly taking place, and the inspiring individuals and groups behind them. From conservation efforts and heritage protection to inclusive green initiatives and creative climate solutions, each episode captures the spirit of collaboration and care that defines Carlow's approach to climate action. Credits: Produced by Carlow County Council in association with Creative Ireland. Hosted by Alan Swan. Executive Producer: Dee Sewell (Carlow County Council). Sound Production, Design & Research: SwanMcG. Special thanks to: Carlow County Council Environmental & Climate Action Team, Creative Ireland Carlow & Stakeholders. This project is funded and supported by Creative Ireland Carlow and Carlow Arts Office. For more information: https://carlow.ie/

    Young People

  8. 10/23/2025

    Sheds

    A broken barber’s chair. Two black sacks of wool. And the volunteers who refused to let either go to waste. In this episode, host Alan Swan meets Frank Morris from Tullow Men’s Shed and Bernie Patterson from Bosom Buddies - Carlow Women's Shed to explore how these community spaces are tackling isolation, repairing what’s broken, and helping people rediscover purpose and pride. From restoring heritage pieces to creating “twiddle muffs” for Alzheimer’s patients, these sheds are proving that sustainability isn’t just about recycling, it’s about renewal, connection, and keeping local skills alive. About Carlow’s Eco Journey:Carlow’s Eco Journey shines a spotlight on the county’s vibrant environmental actions quietly taking place, and the inspiring individuals and groups behind them. From conservation efforts and heritage protection to inclusive green initiatives and creative climate solutions, each episode captures the spirit of collaboration and care that defines Carlow’s approach to climate action. Credits:Produced by Carlow County Council in association with Creative IrelandHosted by Alan SwanExecutive Producer: Dee Sewell (Carlow County Council)Sound Production, Design & Research: SwanMcGSpecial thanks to: Carlow County Council Environmental & Climate Action Team, Creative Ireland Carlow & StakeholdersThis project is funded and supported by Creative Ireland Carlow and Carlow Art Office. For more information: https://carlow.ie/

    Sheds

  9. 10/16/2025

    Sports Clubs

    What happens when clubs ask a different question, not "what do we have to give up," but "how can we do this better?" In this episode, host Alan Swan speaks with Cliona Connolly and Pamela Deegan from Carlow Lawn Tennis Club, and Keith Moran from Carlow Town Hurling and Camogie Club to hear how volunteers tackled rising energy bills and waste with practical fixes that made facilities better, not worse. From insulation, LEDs, and smarter heating to a boot-swap, reusable cups, and bee-friendly planting, the clubs show how climate action can save money, build pride, and strengthen community. About Carlow's Eco Journey: Carlow's Eco Journey shines a spotlight on the county's vibrant environmental actions quietly taking place, and the inspiring individuals and groups behind them. From conservation efforts and heritage protection to inclusive green initiatives and creative climate solutions, each episode captures the spirit of collaboration and care that defines Carlow's approach to climate action. Credits: Produced by Carlow County Council in association with Creative Ireland. Hosted by Alan Swan. Executive Producer: Dee Sewell (Carlow County Council). Sound Production, Design and Research: SwanMcG. Special thanks to: Carlow County Council Environmental and Climate Action Team, Creative Ireland Carlow and Stakeholders. This project is funded and supported by Creative Ireland Carlow and Carlow Arts Office. For more information: https://carlow.ie/

    Sports Clubs

  10. 10/08/2025

    Eco Chats: Landscape

    There's a 9,555-year-old raised bog hidden in County Carlow. And there's a walking trail that connects eleven villages across 100 kilometers, following in the footsteps of a 6th-century Irish monk. What do these two have in common? They're both being preserved, restored, and celebrated by ordinary people, volunteers who somehow find the time to protect the landscape that defines their home. In this episode, host Alan Swan sits down with two remarkable people dedicated to protecting very different parts of Carlow's landscape. Jules Michael, an artist who got "sucked into the whole world of bogs" when asked to design a poster for the Drummin Bog Project. And Damian Howard, a volunteer with the Friends of Columbanus Myshall working on the Columban Way, a 100-kilometer pilgrimage route. Their stories reveal something essential: protecting our environment isn't just about conservation. It's about connection, community, heritage, and the deep human need to belong to a place. About Carlow's Eco Journey: Carlow's Eco Journey shines a spotlight on the county's vibrant environmental actions quietly taking place, and the inspiring individuals and groups behind them. From conservation efforts and heritage protection to inclusive green initiatives and creative climate solutions, each episode captures the spirit of collaboration and care that defines Carlow's approach to climate action. Credits: Produced by Carlow County Council in association with Creative Ireland Hosted by Alan Swan Executive Producer: Dee Sewell (Carlow County Council) Sound Production, Design & Research: SwanMcG. Special thanks to: Carlow County Council Environmental & Climate Action Team, Creative Ireland Carlow & Stakeholders. For more information: https://carlow.ie/

    Eco Chats: Landscape
  • 10 Episodes

About

About Carlow's Eco Journey: Carlow's Eco Journey shines a spotlight on the county's vibrant environmental actions quietly taking place, and the inspiring individuals and groups behind them. From conservation efforts and heritage protection to inclusive green initiatives and creative climate solutions, each episode captures the spirit of collaboration and care that defines Carlow's approach to climate action. In our latest season, hosted by Conor Reid, listeners will hear inspiring stories from creative artists, community gardeners, schools, public transport providers, community hubs, energy advisors and sustainability champions. From helping families reduce their energy costs and cutting textile waste, to creating greener neighbourhoods and stronger communities, each episode celebrates the practical actions that are making a real difference across the county. Season 1 is hosted by broadcaster Alan Swan, and features engaging conversations with community groups, educators, activists, and volunteers who are making a real difference across County Carlow. From conservation efforts and heritage protection to inclusive green initiatives and creative climate solutions, the podcast captures the spirit of collaboration and care that defines Carlow’s approach to climate action. Eco Chats is a reminder that climate action is not just happening at a national level. It is happening here in Carlow every day, driven by local people who care deeply about their communities and are helping to build a more sustainable future for everyone. For more information on this series go to https://carlow.ie/ Credits: Produced by Carlow County Council in association with Creative Ireland Season 2: Hosted by Conor Reid. Executive Producer: Dee Sewell (Carlow County Council). Sound Production, Design & Research: The Podcast Studios Season 1: Hosted by Alan Swan. Executive Producer: Dee Sewell (Carlow County Council). Sound Production, Design & Research: SwanMcG. Special thanks to: Carlow County Council Environmental & Climate Action Team, Creative Ireland Carlow & Stakeholders. For more information:

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