Projects will spark curiosity
€98,080 in funding has been allocated to 46 primary and secondary schools across Cork to support sustainable development projects under the Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Programme.
The funding, which ranges from €1,000 to €2,500 per school, will be provided to schools that successfully submitted proposals for their 2025/2026 sustainability projects under the Second National Strategy on Education for Sustainable Development (ESD to 2030).
This investment forms part of a wider national announcement confirming over €850,000 in funding for Education for Sustainable Development projects across 390 primary and post-primary schools nationwide.
The schools across Cork North-West to benefit include:
• €2,500 for Dromleigh National School for a sensory garden with polytunnel, raised beds and a wildflower meadow with CPD course
• €1,145 for Rylane National School for fruits, vegetable and pollinator friendly plants.
Speaking following the announcement, Fianna Fáil TD for Cork North-West Aindrias Moynihan said: “These projects will help to spark curiosity among our young people about sustainability across a wide range of topics. These issues are of growing importance, not just in Ireland but globally, and it is vital that we encourage early engagement and awareness among students.
“That is why this funding is so important. It provides meaningful support to schools and teachers and, most importantly, empowers students to explore, understand, and take action on sustainability issues.”
He added: “It is essential that learners are given the opportunity to develop the skills needed to support, promote, and actively participate in sustainable development initiatives.
“This year’s projects place a strong emphasis on local-level action, encouraging schools to engage beyond the classroom and into the wider community. This approach helps build vital partnerships for sustainability and strengthens community involvement.”
A wide range of initiatives are being supported through ESD funding, including the development of school gardens and outdoor classrooms, forest schools, recycling systems, biodigesters and food waste management systems, composting initiatives, fast fashion awareness projects, rainwater harvesting and irrigation systems, energy education initiatives, student-led sustainability projects, teacher professional development, and a variety of sustainability-themed workshops.
Funding under ESD to 2030 can be used by schools to further develop sustainability projects, strengthen community partnerships, and build teacher capacity to support the implementation of Sustainability Policy Statements and the School Sector Climate Action Mandate.