€2.9 Million Boost for Biodiversity Projects Across Ireland

Ireland’s biodiversity is set to benefit from a major funding injection as Ministers James Browne TD and Christopher O’Sullivan TD have announced €2.9 million for local authority-led projects under the 2025 Local Biodiversity Action Fund (LBAF).

Administered by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), the LBAF supports the implementation of Ireland’s 4th National Biodiversity Action Plan at county, community and regional level. Since its launch in 2018, the fund has provided nearly €11 million to biodiversity projects nationwide.

This year, all 31 local authorities successfully applied for funding, with 262 projects approved. These initiatives will tackle a wide range of biodiversity issues, with a strong emphasis on practical action and community engagement.

Showcasing Ireland’s Local Biodiversity Efforts

A number of standout projects exemplify the diversity and creativity of this year’s funded initiatives:

• The Hare’s Corner: Inspired by a traditional Irish farming practice of leaving a patch of land undisturbed for nature, this project will be implemented by seven local authorities. It will see the creation of ponds, mini-woodlands and orchards to provide vital habitats for local flora and fauna.
• Return to Nature: Five local authorities will work alongside faith communities to support the Catholic Church’s target of returning 30% of church grounds to nature by 2030. These projects involve habitat restoration and biodiversity-friendly landscaping in churchyards and associated lands.
• Artificial Lighting Training in Connacht: Six local authorities partnered with experts from Dark Sky Ireland, NPWS and Mayo County Council to host workshops on reducing light pollution. These sessions aim to help local governments develop policies that protect nocturnal wildlife and preserve natural dark skies.
• Invasive Freshwater Turtle Control Protocols: Seven authorities are collaborating to develop practical guidelines for managing invasive freshwater turtle species, which pose ecological threats to Ireland’s aquatic ecosystems. The project will result in a national protocol to support anyone tasked with turtle identification and control.

Other funded actions across the country include wetland mapping, bat and barn owl surveys, pollinator-friendly planting schemes, and community biodiversity training.

Ministerial Support

Minister for Housing, Heritage and Local Government James Browne TD praised the local efforts, stating, “These projects show how every county can contribute to the protection and restoration of biodiversity. From ponds and pollinators to dark skies and church grounds, local authorities are driving real change at ground level. I look forward to seeing the results of this important work.”

Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan TD, added, “I’m particularly encouraged by the innovative and wide-ranging nature of this year’s projects. The Hare’s Corner and Return to Nature initiatives show how creative, community-based efforts can have a big ecological impact. I commend the local authorities for their commitment and their growing leadership in tackling biodiversity loss.”