Sustainable Christmas

HOW CAN WE ‘DECK THE HALLS’ WITH LESS IMPACT?

At this time of year, we pour so much of our energy, both physical and mental, into trying to ensure a ‘perfect Christmas’ where we buy the right presents for everyone, we have the house beautifully decorated (and tidied!) and have wonderful food and drinks available for friends and family. It can be exhausting. Christmas has become “the biggest annual festival of consumption around the globe”, and has reached the point where this excessive consumption is “not just normal, it’s positively encouraged” [Jen Gale]. So, how can we reduce our impact without losing any of the spirit and joy of this special time of year? Niamh Brannigan and Candice Moen ‘unwrap’ the situation.

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Climate Action Plan

WILL WE BE LEADERS OR LAGGARDS IN IMPLEMENTING IT?

Ireland has been described in recent years as a ‘climate laggard’ because of our country’s failure to meet commitments on EU greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets. Recently the Irish Government launched its new Climate Action Plan. It sets out how all of us in this country will play our part in the global effort to keep global warming to less than 1.5°C.Scientists say that warming above this level will increase the risk of climate chaos and significant suffering for humanity. Liam Murtagh sets out the key elements of Ireland’s Climate Action Plan and considers what is needed to ensure that the plan is implemented successfully.

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Sustainability Matters – Our Weekly Column

For almost a decade, Transition Monaghan have been creating the “Sustainability Matters” column. The column has been printed on a weekly basis in the Northern Standard newspaper which circulates in Monaghan and surrounding counties. The aim of the column has always been to increase awareness and education on a range of environmental and sustainability issues of local, national and international interest. The vast archive of articles on the website are a testament to the effort involved over the years.

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Farm Diversification Enhances Nature in Monaghan

The Barker home place near Derryvalley, Co Monaghan is enjoying a wonderful renaissance under the thoughtful stewardship of owner (and well known Toastmaster) Charlie Barker. A few intrepid members of Transition Monaghan took a visit to see and learn how diversification and respect for nature are paying dividends. Dermot McNally explains all.

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