Meath County Council is pleased to announce the launch of their 'Meath Climate Academy' programme.

This initiative, the first of its kind in the country, will see a series of climate action training workshops delivered to a number of stakeholders.  The first free workshop ‘Citizen Climate Leader Training’, will take place on Saturday, January 25th at Buvinda House, Navan, those interested in attending are invited to book their place as soon as possible.

It is proposed that the training will inform people on the climate crisis, climate justice and climate action and empower citizens to take their own climate action, start a climate conversation in their communities and inspire others into action.

Cathaoirleach, Cllr. Wayne Harding, supporting the initiative, said “this is an exciting opportunity for citizens, communities, businesses and other stakeholders to become part of the solution to the climate emergency at a local level, to make a positive impact to our precious environment and biodiversity and ultimately by working together and supporting each other build closer, stronger communities.”

Meath County Council has recently appointed a full time Climate Action Officer who will lead a Climate Team of three; it is believed Meath County Council is the first local authority to appoint such a full time resource. Meath County Council Chief Executive, Ms. Jackie Maguire, commented that “The Climate Action Team will focus on the implementation of the Climate Action Strategy, to embed climate action into our activities and services and continue our extensive public engagement. Our ethos in relation to climate action has always been opportunities focussed, to make Meath a climate ready region that supports jobs, growth and healthy lifestyles. Climate action leadership is crucial and the 'Meath Climate Academy' will facilitate citizens in joining us in this leadership role and empower and inspire climate action at a grass roots level.”

Climate Action Officer, Caroline Corrigan, detailed the first workshop which will take place on Saturday, January 25th. “We have an exciting line-up of speakers covering topics relating to climate facts, biodiversity, sustainability, climate justice, climate and food/health, and tips on communicating the climate message. For some mid-afternoon light relief we have comedian Colm O'Regan, who himself is a climate advocate, entertaining us.”

Regarding who should attend these workshops, Ms Corrigan added “We are not looking for climate or environmental experts, you need no experience in these areas, all you need is to care about our environment, the place we all inhabit and want to help make a difference to create a cleaner and healthier environment.”

The ‘Citizen Climate Leader Training’ workshop is free to attend and places are limited, participants will not only receive documentation to say they completed the 'Meath Climate Academy' training but they will take home goodie bags and there also will be spot prizes up for grabs on the day. To book your place contact the Climate Action Team at climateaction@meathcoco.ie or call 046 9097203.