Coláiste Chiaráin has further cemented its commitment to sustain-ability and biodiversity with the planting of over 2,000 native Irish trees this April, setting the found-ation for what will become a magnificent tree-lined avenue leading into the school. This latest initiative builds on the school’s ongoing environmental stewardship following the estaablishment of a mixed fruit orchard in November 2021 and the planting of over 3,500 native Irish trees in 2022 to create a school biodiversity area and walkway.
This ambitious new project was undertaken in partner-ship with Limerick City and County Council, the Tree Council of Ireland and Limerick Central Rotary Club, with special thanks to Carmel Lynch and the Executive Team at LCCC for their ongoing support. Coláiste Chiaráin also acknowledges the valuable contributions and unwavering backing of Limerick Central Rotary Club, particularly club president Ger Lynch, Tony Brasil, Brendan Fitzsimons, CEO of the Tree Council of Ireland, Cllr John O’Donoghue and Richard O’Donoghue TD, all of whose presence, advocacy and collaborative support led to the successful completion of this project.
Principal Gerard O’Sullivan shared:
“This tree-lined avenue will be a proud and lasting welcome to all who enter our school for generations to come. It is a visible symbol of our commitment to sustainability, environ-mental action and a fitting continuation of the rich biodiversity work already undertaken on our campus.”
In 2022, Coláiste Chiaráin set aside a dedicated area of its 22-acre campus for the development of a biodiversity park and walkway, supported by Coillte, Crann, Easytreesie, the Tree Council of Ireland, Limerick Central Rotary Club and Richard O’Donoghue TD. The project included the planting of thousands of native Irish trees such as beech, oak, Scots pine, silver birch and more, along with the construction of a biodiversity walkway.
Earlier, in November 2021, the school joined the DCs for Bees “Orchards in the Community” initiative through a partnership with Kirby Group Engineering, planting a mixed fruit orchard. These initiatives serve as learning resources and a vital early food source for Ireland’s native bee population.
Mayor of Limerick John Moran could not be prouder of the initiative: “Coláiste Chiaráin continues to lead by example in environmental stewardship and sustainability. The planting of over 2,000 native Irish trees is a testament to the school’s dedication to fostering biodiversity and creating a greener future for Limerick. This inspiring project also reflects the power of community collaboration in protecting our natural environment. I commend all involved for their vision and commitment to sustainability, ensuring that future generations will benefit from the beauty and environmental impact of this magnificent tree-lined avenue.”
Príomh Comhairleoir of Limerick, Cllr. Dan Mc Sweeney added: “Coláiste Chiaráin’s dedication to sustainability is truly commendable. By planting over 2,000 native Irish trees, the school is shaping a greener, more biodiverse future for Limerick. This project, made possible through collaboration with Limerick City and County Council, the Tree Council of Ireland, and Limerick Central Rotary Club, highlights the power of community in protecting our environment.”
Commenting on this latest initiative and partnership, Carmel Lynch of Limerick City and County Council said: “This fantastic initiative by Coláiste Chiaráin is more important than ever as we face the challenges of the climate crisis. The planting of over 2,000 native Irish trees is a powerful step toward restoring biodiversity. This project demonstrates how local action can contribute to a healthier planet.”
These projects are more than symbolic. They form part of a comprehensive sustainability vision at Coláiste Chiaráin that integrates education, wellbeing, biodiversity and climate action. Through active participation from students, staff and local and national partners, the school continues to progress and inspire a model for environmentally conscious education.