Abbeyleix Bog project wins Pride of Place award for biodiversity

ABBEYLEIX Bog Project was honoured at the prestigious IPB Pride of Place community awards on Saturday 2 November at a gala ceremony in Monaghan.

The project won the Climate Action and Biodiversity category.

The judging panel said: “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 visited Abbeyleix Bog in July. They said that they were deeply impressed by the quality of the presentation, the immersive bog tour and the extraordinary spirit of volunteerism evident throughout Abbeyleix.

The project's core objectives of restoration, education and recreation are aligned with climate and sustainability goals. The judges particularly commended 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.

An Abbeyleix Bog Project spokesperson said: “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.” Cathaoirleach of Laois County Council cllr Pádraig Fleming said: “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. This award acknowledges their vital contribution to environmental stewardship.” Interim chief executive of Laois County Council Simon Walton said: “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.” Climate action co-ordinator with Laois County Council Suzanne Dempsey said: “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 gamechanger for Ireland’s carbon sequestration efforts, contributing meaningfully to climate mitigation.” The Abbeyleix Bog Project is a community-led conservation initiative dedicated to the restoration, education and recreation of Abbeyleix Bog. Supported by volunteers, government agencies and local businesses, the project aims to preserve this critical habitat while promoting environmental education and sustainable practices.