A Laois grouo was honoured at the recent Pride of Place community awards at a gala ceremony in the Hillgrove Hotel, Monaghan.
Abbeyleix Bog Project won the Climate Action and Biodiversity category, beating off competition from both Galway and Dublin.
Judges praised the role the project played in community life, commenting: “In the opinion of the judges this admirable venture demonstrates the benefits of innovation, dedication and broad appeal.
“An area has been rejuvenated and there is buy in from a range of stakeholders, volunteers and the wider community.
“In spite of existential threats and initial struggles the group has persevered and what stands now is a rich biodiversity hub – a beacon of hope and a testament to successful conservation.”
The judging panel, who visited Abbeyleix Bog in July, said they were “deeply impressed” by the quality of the presentation, the immersive bog tour, and the “extraordinary spirit of volunteerism” throughout Abbeyleix.
The project’s core objectives of restoration, education, and recreation are aligned with climate and sustainability goals.
The judges highlighted the significant restoration achievement, with active raised bog increasing from 1% to 13.5%, a milestone that “has transformative implications” for carbon sequestration and biodiversity.
The Abbeyleix Bog Project shared their excitement, saying: “We are delighted to accept the Pride of Place award on behalf of all our volunteers.
“This recognition honours our climate action efforts and the dedication of our community. We had fantastic support on the judging day from our group and the wider Abbeyleix community.
“Special thanks to Laois County Council for their support, and we also remember the pioneers who defended the bog from development back in July 2000.”
Councillor Padraig Fleming, Cathaoirleach of Laois County Council, commended the project, saying: “The volunteers at Abbeyleix Bog Project are incredibly deserving of this award.
“Their work sets a benchmark for climate action and biodiversity, inspiring other communities across Ireland.”
Simon Walton, Interim Chief Executive of Laois County Council added: “Laois County Council wholeheartedly congratulates the Abbeyleix Bog Project on their remarkable success.
“The Council remains committed to supporting this complex yet invaluable project, which balances ecological preservation with community recreation.
“The dedication and attention to detail of the project team have clearly resonated with the judges, making this recognition well-deserved.”
Suzanne Dempsey, Climate Action Coordinator for Laois County Council, emphasised the project’s national significance, saying: “Abbeyleix Bog is a model of what bog restoration can achieve for climate and biodiversity.
“Healthy peat bogs are crucial carbon sinks, capturing and storing carbon dioxide, and this restoration work is a game-changer for Ireland’s carbon sequestration efforts, contributing meaningfully to climate mitigation.”
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