Community loan for Leave No Trace

For many, lockdown has sparked a reconnection with their local surroundings and environment, resulting in a renewed appreciation for the natural treasures on our doorstep.

 

Local parks, forests and trails all saw an upsurge in footfall and activity. But that increased interaction with the local environment also brought with it increased impacts.

 

This is where Leave No Trace Ireland comes in.

 

Leave No Trace is the internationally recognised programme that promotes responsible outdoor recreation through education, research and partnerships to inspire positive behavioural change. Officially launched in 2008 Leave No Trace Ireland is based today in the picturesque town of Westport.

 

By encouraging people to understand and respect the areas they visit as well as the responsibilities that come with accessing the countryside and outdoor spaces, Leave No Trace Ireland’s programme is central to providing clear guidelines on personal responsibility and enjoying the outdoors with care.

 

The organisation has grown rapidly in Ireland over the last several years with over 300 members, including individuals, communities, organisations and state agencies and national bodies including Sport Ireland, Coillte, Failte Ireland, the Department of Rural and Community Development (LEADER Programme), the NPWS, the OPW, Inland Fisheries Ireland and Waterways Ireland.

 

One key area of the organisation is engagement in education and schools-based training on conservation and environmental issues, with programmes delivered across the country by a team of accredited Leave No Trace trainers. To date the group’s work has received national and international awards and recognition.

 

Leave No Trace Ireland sought support from Clann Credo for innovative new initiatives including a pilot Tidy Towns Biodiversity programme and customised training for community groups in Donegal involved in water sports, mountain biking, trail and hillwalking, and community events.

 

CEO of Leave No Trace Ireland, Maura Kiely, stated “It was fantastic to be able to work with Clann Credo to facilitate us to deliver these all-important projects to communities.”

 

Clann Credo was happy to support these initiatives and to be associated with Leave No Trace Ireland given the significant social and environmental work that they do.  This is another great example of the benefits created when LEADER grants are combined with loan finance from Clann Credo! 

 

For more information on LEADER funding, talk to your Local Development Company, the full list is HERE.