Eco awareness seminar in Co Carlow a success

An Eco Awareness information seminar organised by the United Dioceses of Cashel and Ossory in Leighlinbridge Community Centre, Co Carlow on 23^rd May was a huge success. The Most Rev Michael Burrows, Bishop of Cashel and Ossory, opened the event with prayer and Rev Elaine Murray, Vicar of Kilkenny, introduced the speakers.

There was also a question and answer session and an opportunity to view stalls on eco glazing, alternative energy systems, Airtricity, composting, pump systems for energy systems and eco baby products.

The Very Rev Gordon Wynne, Dean of Leighlin, addressed the subject of “Our Christian responsibility to the Global Effects of Climate Change”. He made the point that the three most important things underpinning the balance of our world were environment, ecumenism and Fairtrade.

Jonathan Fitzpatrick of A-Rated Retrofitting spoke on “Practical changes and understanding government regulations and grants”. He listed many examples of ways to improve the energy rating in homes, highlighting the Sustainable Energy Ireland website as a starting place to source local suppliers and grants.

Richard Sherlock of Daikin spoke on the theme, “Understanding alternative energy systems and cost effectiveness”. He shed light on the many systems available and explained the concept of kilo watt hours.

Lorcan Scott of Wildlife Ireland spoke on “Wildlife and Fauna Awareness in our Church Environs”. He made the interesting point that humans were more closely related to bats than bats were related to mice!

Participants also heard the story behind Leighlinbridge’s successful bid to be Ireland’s first Fairtrade Village and learned something about transition towns and Futureproof Kilkenny. A Christian Aid speaker showed some of the many resources for children and youth groups which can help get across the message of how climate change is impacting the world.