Carlow Circular Economy Report shows that the county is an 'ecosystem of community action'

Carlow County Council recently launched its community-based Circular Economy Report. 

Taking place at the Tinryland Community Hub, the event brought together Elected Members, local stakeholders’, community representatives and project partners to acknowledge the progress being made across the county in advancing a community-driven circular economy. 

The report provides comprehensive documentation of Carlow’s circular initiatives for the first time, capturing the activity taking place across community groups, social enterprises, voluntary organisations, educational bodies and local businesses. 

It outlines the successes of programmes such as community composting hubs, repair and reuse initiatives, swap schemes, garden and biodiversity projects as well as charity-led redistribution efforts. 

Speaking at the launch, Cathaoirleach Ken Murnane commented: “This publication shows not only the commitment of our Council, but the dedication of our communities, volunteers and organisations who are working tirelessly to make County Carlow a leader in local sustainability and social innovation.” 

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Breandán Ó Caoimh, Director of O’Keeffe Social Research, authors of the report, reflected on the findings: “What we see in Carlow is a thriving ecosystem of community action—evidence that circularity emerges most powerfully when it is rooted in local identity, social connection and shared purpose. Carlow’s communities are not just participating in the circular economy; they are shaping it.” 

Tinryland Community Hub, the venue for the launch, was also recognised as a leading example of community-led circular practice. The Hub has become a focal point for local sustainability action, hosting environmental workshops, reuse and swap activities and community composting along with a range of educational programmes.

Its operations exemplify how shared community spaces can reduce waste, build social cohesion and inspire public participation in climate action. The setting underscored one of the central messages of the report: that circularity flourishes where communities have access to inclusive, well-supported spaces enabling collaboration, education and participation.

Jannette O’Brien, Climate Action Coordinator, highlighted: “Communities are the engine of Carlow’s circular transition. By embracing reuse, repair, sharing and composting, people across the county are demonstrating that local climate action is both practical and powerful. But it is also important to acknowledge that community circularity does more than tackle climate change — it helps build stronger, more connected communities, supports inclusion and ensures that everyone can participate in shaping a fairer, more sustainable future.”

The community-based Circular Economy Report forms part of Carlow County Council’s ongoing commitment to delivering on its Climate Action Plan and sustainability objectives.

The report identifies opportunities for further development, including enhanced collaboration, expanded education and training, and continued support for grassroots organisations delivering circular solutions locally.