Limerick schools receive €850,000 funding for sustainability and climate education projects

SCHOOLS across Limerick are set to benefit from targeted investment in sustainability and climate education following the announcement of more than €850,000 in national funding under the Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) programme.

The funding was announced by Minister for Education and Youth Hildegarde Naughton and will support hands-on, student-led projects that promote environmental awareness, biodiversity protection and sustainable living practices in schools across the country.

A number of Limerick schools are among those approved for grants under the scheme. Welcoming the announcement, Minister Patrick O’Donovan thanked his Cabinet colleague for her continued support for schools in Limerick, highlighting the importance of practical climate education at local level.

“The funding supports hands-on, student-led projects that promote biodiversity, tackle food waste and embed sustainability at community level.

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“All of these are ways in which our children gain practical experience of the world around them and help them in their journey to adulthood,” Minister O’Donovan said.

Among the Limerick schools approved for funding is Fedamore CNS, which has received €2,000 to develop raised beds for fruit and vegetables, introduce pollinator-friendly planting and install a polytunnel.

Glenbrohane National School has also been awarded €2,000 to upgrade its school garden, enhancing opportunities for outdoor learning.

Knocklong National School secured €2,500 to develop a Students’ Voice app aimed at improving school meals and reducing food waste, while Murroe National School received €2,500 to enhance its outdoor space and boost biodiversity within the school grounds.

Scoil Naomh Mhuire has been allocated €2,500 to create an outdoor learning area incorporating native trees and pollinator-friendly shrubs. Scoil Pól, Kilfinane was awarded €1,500 to deliver a fast-fashion awareness project, improve waste separation systems and develop a polytunnel and rainwater collection initiative.

Coláiste Chiaráin Croom has received €2,500 for its “Our River, Our Future” environmental project, while Coláiste Íosaef, Kilmallock was awarded €2,500 to support the installation of a biodigester and improve food-waste management within the school.

The projects form part of the Government’s ESD to 2030 strategy, which aims to empower young people to take meaningful local action on climate change and sustainability.

The strategy places a strong emphasis on experiential learning, encouraging students to engage directly with real-world environmental challenges.

By supporting locally driven initiatives, the funding helps embed sustainability into everyday school life.
For Limerick students, the projects offer opportunities to develop practical skills and a strong understanding of environmental responsibility.

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme