Let's Go Green with Aisling O'Rourke

Episode 171

On this week’s Let’s Go Green, Professor John Sweeney explains why renewed discussion around nuclear energy is distracting from the urgent climate solutions Ireland needs right now, including faster investment in renewable energy and energy efficiency. Security and Defence Analyst Declan Power joins me to discuss the growing importance of protecting Ireland’s energy security, from critical infrastructure and cyber threats to ensuring a reliable and sustainable energy supply for the future. Niall Hatch of BirdWatch Ireland shares an important warning for bird lovers this summer. A fatal parasitic disease called trichomoniasis is being spread by Garden feeders. Niall explains why people are being advised to stop feeding birds, how to properly clean feeders and what signs of illness the public should watch out for. And we pay tribute to David Attenborough as he celebrates his 100th birthday, reflecting on the extraordinary impact his broadcasting career has had on how we understand nature, biodiversity and the climate crisis. Tune in every Monday night at 7pm on Midlands 103 or listen back on your preferred podcast platform. Let’s Go Green is proudly sponsored by EirGrid Group.

Episode 170

This week on Let’s Go Green with Aisling O’Rourke on Midlands 103, we’re exploring Ireland’s energy future, emissions data and a new celebration of nature-friendly farming. Caroline O’Doherty, Climate and Science Correspondent with the Irish Times, joins me to discuss the energy conversation sparked by recent fuel protests. We look at Ireland’s options when it comes to renewable energy and what the country can do to reduce its reliance on imported fossil fuels, particularly oil. Dr Maria Martin of the Environmental Protection Agency talks us through their latest findings on Ireland’s carbon emissions for 2025. We examine where progress is being made and where challenges remain in meeting our climate targets. And Lydia Lishman of Farming for Nature joins me to look ahead to the very first Farming for Nature festival taking place in County Laois this summer. We explore what’s planned and why celebrating nature-friendly farming has never been more important. Tune in every Monday night at 7pm on Midlands 103 or listen back on your preferred podcast platform. Let’s Go Green is proudly sponsored by EirGrid Group.

Episode 169

This week on Let’s Go Green with Aisling O’Rourke on Midlands 103, we’re focusing on community action, sustainability and practical steps you can take at home. Climate Ambassador Laurence O’Reilly joins me to talk about the EU Climate Pact and how it is supporting communities to become more sustainability and biodiversity minded. We discuss how individuals and groups can get involved and make a real impact locally. Amanda Glancy of SIRO tells us about the launch of this year’s School Pollinator Project, encouraging students and schools to take simple but meaningful steps to support pollinators across Ireland. Niamh Kelly of Repak shares practical advice on how to recycle your Easter egg packaging correctly, helping to reduce waste during the holiday period. And Let’s Go Green listener Sean Hynes joins me to talk about his ambition to create a community garden in Tullamore. We explore what is involved and how local support can help bring projects like this to life. Tune in every Monday night at 7pm on Midlands 103 or listen back on your preferred podcast platform. Let’s Go Green is proudly sponsored by EirGrid Group.

Episode 168

This week on Let’s Go Green with Aisling O’Rourke on Midlands 103, we’re focusing on community action, behavioural change and bringing more life and colour into our outdoor spaces. With thanks to Hans Zomer of Global Action Plan Ireland, I visit the Glas Community Garden at TU Dublin Blanchardstown. We explore how shared growing spaces can bring people together while supporting biodiversity and local climate action. Dr Sinéad Sheehan of the School of Psychology at University of Galway joins me to explain the role of behavioural change in addressing environmental challenges. We discuss why getting involved in community groups can be so effective in driving real and lasting change. And Anna Browne of Big Sky Flowers returns to the show with advice on how to add colour to your garden in a way that also supports pollinators and biodiversity. Tune in every Monday night at 7pm on Midlands 103 or listen back on your preferred podcast platform. Let’s Go Green is proudly sponsored by EirGrid Group.

Episode 167

This week on Let’s Go Green with Aisling O’Rourke on Midlands 103, we’re looking at energy use in our homes, celebrating local food innovation and keeping an eye on the weather ahead of St Patrick’s Day. Dr Muireann Lynch joins us to discuss a new report from the ESRI examining Ireland’s decarbonisation efforts. The research suggests that while many homes are improving their BER ratings, this is not always translating into lower energy consumption, raising important questions about behaviour and energy use. Fiona McCormack, a County Longford beekeeper, talks to us about her involvement in the Local Enterprise Office and SuperValu Food Academy and the growing interest in locally produced food. And Lynne Gallagher of Irish Heritage Knitwear joins me to outline fundraising efforts aimed at establishing a fully operational Irish wool mill, helping to support local farmers and bring more value to Irish wool. We’ll also take a look at the weather forecast for St Patrick’s Day to see what conditions might be in store for the celebrations. Tune in every Monday night at 7pm on Midlands 103 or listen back on your preferred podcast platform. Let’s Go Green is proudly sponsored by EirGrid Group.