Donegal’s over 55s taking climate action together - Donegal Daily

Participants from across Donegal are taking part in Donegal County Council’s Climate Course for Over 55s, learning more about climate change and exploring pract...

Participants from across Donegal are taking part in Donegal County Council's Climate Course for Over 55s, learning more about climate change and exploring practical actions they can take in their daily lives and local communities.

Hosted by Donegal County Council's Climate Action Team in partnership with the Donegal Library Service and the Age Friendly Programme, the six session course is currently underway and provides a welcoming space for participants to discuss climate issues, share experiences and identify actions that can make a positive difference.

The course is facilitated by Jacinta Barrins, a retired UN diplomat and founder of the 60+ Climate Drive initiative.

Drawing on her extensive experience in climate, environment and international development, Jacinta helps participants understand climate change in a practical and accessible way while exploring how everyday actions can contribute to a more sustainable future.

Jacinta has delivered this course in communities throughout Ireland, supporting older people to engage with climate action and sustainability at a local level.

Alongside the core programme, participants are hearing from a range of guest speakers on topics including home energy efficiency, biodiversity and sustainable living and community climate action.

A strong local focus runs throughout the course, with discussions highlighting climate initiatives already underway across Donegal and the implementation of Donegal County Council's Climate Action Plan.

One of the six course sessions is taking place during Sustainable Development Week, Ireland's annual awareness campaign promoting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and encouraging community action on sustainability.

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As part of the wider European Sustainable Development Week initiative, the session provides participants with an opportunity to explore the links between climate action and sustainable development, while recognising the important contribution that communities across Donegal are making to building a more resilient and sustainable future.

Jacinta Barrins former United Nations Diplomat pictured with Deputy Chief Executive Garry Martin and Director of Service Michael Mc Garvey

Speaking about the programme, Lorraine Arbuckle Climate Action Coordinator with Donegal County Council, said: "Climate action is already happening across Donegal, from community biodiversity and wetland projects that enhance our shared spaces, to money-saving energy upgrades that reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. This course helps participants connect with those local efforts and shows how individual actions, when multiplied across households and communities, can make a real difference. The enthusiasm and engagement from participants has been hugely encouraging."

"We are also very grateful to Donegal Local Development Company for providing the Community Bus service throughout the course. This practical support has helped remove barriers to participation and ensured that people from different parts of the county have been able to come together, learn from one another and take part in discussions on climate action."

Michael McGarvey Director of Service, Donegal County Council, added: "Older persons have a wealth of real-life experience in living sustainably, making best of use of our local resources, supporting their communities and adapting to change. This course recognises the valuable role they can play in climate action and empowers them to become ambassadors for positive change within their families, community groups and local areas."

Participants are learning how local actions can deliver tangible benefits here at home, including lower energy costs, healthier environments, reduced waste, and stronger, more resilient communities.

By connecting global climate challenges with local solutions, the programme demonstrates how everyone can play a part in shaping a sustainable future for Donegal.