Louth County Council has announced the 16 projects that will receive funding under the 2026 Local Environmental Action Fund (LEAF), a nationwide initiative developed by IPB Insurance and Local Government Ireland and administered locally by Louth County Council.
Through the fund, almost €100,000 has been allocated to community organisations across County Louth to support practical, community-led projects that enhance biodiversity, address climate and environmental challenges, and create more sustainable and resilient local communities.
The 16 projects receiving funding cover a wide range of environmental themes and include citizen science monitoring initiatives, the creation of a community seed library, pollinator-friendly planting schemes, wildlife and biodiversity interpretation signage, habitat protection and wildlife conservation projects, environmental education programmes, renewable energy initiatives, and community-led assessments of potential solutions to localised flooding and the spread of invasive plant species.
Cllr Dolores Minogue, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, welcomed the announcement of the successful projects, saying:
"The range of projects receiving funding demonstrates the commitment of our community and volunteer groups across Louth to environmental improvement and climate action. These projects show how local knowledge, volunteer effort and community collaboration can deliver meaningful benefits for people, place and nature. I want to congratulate all of the successful groups and look forward to seeing the impact of their projects in the months ahead."
David Conway, Chief Executive of Louth County Council, added:
"The Local Environmental Action Fund is supporting communities to take practical steps on key environmental challenges and opportunities in their local areas. The funded projects will deliver tangible outcomes, from enhancing biodiversity, supporting environmental education, to exploring innovative solutions for flooding, invasive species management and renewable energy. Importantly, these grants demonstrate the value of empowering communities to lead on climate action and biodiversity initiatives with the assistance of Louth County Council."
The successful projects will be delivered over the coming months by community organisations, Tidy Towns groups, community groups, residents’ associations, and environmental groups throughout the county.
For more information on the Local Environmental Action Fund and other climate action initiatives supported by Louth County Council, visit www.louthcoco.ie.