Inishowen is Ours climate and biodiversity project launches in Carndonagh
The €80,000 Peaceplus project, which is aimed at promoting environmental regeneration, social inclusion, and peacebuilding, is being rolled out across Inishowen
A collaborative eco project aimed at promoting environmental regeneration, social inclusion, and peacebuilding is being rolled out across Inishowen.
The new project entitled Inishowen is Ours, is being delivered by Inishowen Development Partnership (IDP) as part of the Peaceplus Programme, funded by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) and managed locally by Donegal County Council.
Running from June 2025 to May 2027, the programme will engage around 120 participants through a wide range of outdoor, community-based activities focused on climate action, biodiversity, and wellbeing.
It is designed to empower individuals of all ages to learn, share, and grow through outdoor experiences that enhance wellbeing, build confidence, and foster self-esteem — ultimately encouraging meaningful contributions to the health and sustainability of Inishowen’s local ecosystem.
Joint CEO of IDP, Shauna McClenaghan, said Inishowen is Ours will use a community development approach to address poverty and reduce social exclusion, particularly in relation to environmental challenges and climate change.
“This programme is about empowering people to take meaningful action in their communities while building stronger, more connected, and peaceful relationships.
“We’re proud to bring together our experience in cross-border peacebuilding projects and environmental advocacy to create a space where people can learn, grow, and contribute to a more sustainable future for Inishowen,” she added.
The plans for the project, which were revealed at the recent launch at The Daisy, Barrack Hill Town Park in Carndonagh, are action-learning oriented.
Examples include sustainability and environmental actions, the circular economy, nature-based training and workshops, cross-border study visits, cross-community engagement, and pilot training programmes — including activities for young adults (18–30) to become climate change champions. IDP will also engage with local second-level schools as part of the programme.
Already, the Inishowen is Ours programme has had its first study visit to Rathlin Island. Twenty representatives from community groups, environmental organisations, and activists across Inishowen learnt about climate actions and innovations on Rathlin, in collaboration with Future Island-Island, led by the University of Ulster.
Speaking at the launch, Cllr Paul Canning, Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council and Chair of the Peaceplus Partnership Committee, praised the initiative’s vision and impact:
“Inishowen is Ours is a programme delivered by IDP, aiming to support the environmental regeneration of the Inishowen peninsula using an inclusive community development approach and creating a greater awareness of the impact of climate change,” said Cllr Canning.
“I would like to sincerely thank all those who made this possible. Together, we can support the environmental regeneration of the peninsula using an inclusive community development approach to create long-term benefits.”
The Inishowen is Ours programme gives people of all ages to come together, learn from one another, and grow - not only in skills and confidence, but in connection and purpose. Through outdoor engagement and shared experiences, it aims to nurture wellbeing, foster reconciliation, and inspire lasting contributions to a more peaceful and sustainable Inishowen.
For more information or to get involved, contact Denise McCool, Team Lead at Inishowen Development Partnership on 07493 62218 or email [email protected].