Carlow County Council is shining a spotlight on local people who are helping to create a cleaner, greener and more sustainable low-carbon future through Carlow Town’s Decarbonising Zone. From firefighters and sports clubs to community leaders and council staff, climate action is happening in every corner of Carlow Town.

From emergency services and community organisations to sports clubs, council staff and local families, people across Carlow are taking practical action to reduce emissions, support biodiversity and make their town a better place to live.

To coincide with Climate Action Week (3-12 October), these local climate champions and their projects have featured across Carlow County Council’s digital channels, as part of the campaign under the national ‘We’re Taking Climate Action’ initiative. The aim is to highlight the positive impact of community-led climate action across the town.

Jannette O’Brien, Carlow County Council’s Climate Action Co-ordinator, said that the story of Carlow’s Decarbonising Zone is ultimately a story about people. From firefighters and sports clubs to community leaders, council staff and local families, people from all walks of life are playing their part and doing their bit.

“Climate action is happening here in Carlow every day through practical actions that are making a real difference. This campaign is an opportunity to celebrate those local climate heroes and show how small actions can add up to significant change.

“Investing in our future is not just about funding projects. It’s about building awareness, supporting behaviour change and working together with schools, businesses, community groups and local agencies to create lasting impact.”

Chief Executive of Carlow County Council, Coilín O’Reilly, said the zone demonstrates what can be achieved when a community works towards a shared goal. The zone represents an investment in Carlow’s future, through infrastructure and innovation, and the partnerships and community participation that make lasting change possible.

“The people who featured in this campaign show how local leadership, innovation and collaboration can help deliver national climate ambitions at a local level. Their efforts help to create a more sustainable, resilient and future-focused town for generations to come. Carlow’s experience shows that meaningful climate action is most effective when communities are empowered to take ownership of the transition and work together towards a common purpose,” he added.

Carlow Town’s Decarbonising Zone is one of 41 such zones identified by local authorities across Ireland as part of their Climate Action Plans. The zone is a defined area where climate mitigation, climate adaptation and biodiversity measures are united to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support the transition to a low-carbon future. It acts as a demonstration area, showcasing what is possible through local climate action and innovation.

Featuring over 40 events across the county, this year’s programme brings together community groups, schools, businesses, organisations, and residents to showcase the many ways climate action is making a positive impact in Carlow.