National Biodiversity Week: How can you get involved?

From curlews to pine martins, wildflowers to peat bogs, Ireland is home to a huge number of fascinating organisms. Our country is renowned for its natural beauty. But there's no doubt that our woodlands, rivers, mountains and lakes are beautiful because of their biodiversity. 

National Biodiversity Week runs from May 13th to 22nd. Organised by the Irish Environmental Network (IEN), the week is all about raising awareness and teaching people how to 'make space for nature.' From birdwatching to visiting your local waterway, there are so many ways that you can show your support.

But first, a little bit on why it's happening in the first place:

What is biodiversity and why does it matter?

Red squirrels are one of many woodland animals that are currently endangered in Ireland.

According to the WWF, Biodiversity is 'all the different kinds of life you’ll find in one area—the variety of animals, plants, fungi, and even microorganisms like bacteria that make up our natural world.'

Biodiversity is important because it ensures the sustainability of our ecosystems. As humans, we rely on these ecosystems to thrive as a species. They rely on us to protect them. And it's our responsibility not to exploit, damage, or eradicate the creatures we share this island with. 

Unfortunately, some damage has already been done. Deforestation, river pollution, and destruction of bogland has caused serious harm to certain species of Irish birds, mammals, and plants.

Populations of well-known native animals like red squirrels, barn owls, otters, and Atlantic salmon are declining at alarming rates. A 2019 report by the National Parks & Wildlife Service classified 77 species as critically endangered. Another 126 species are considered endangered.

Seeing as most of us aren't ecologists or conservationists, it's hard to tell how we could make a positive difference. But our local communities are a great place to start.

Small efforts like planting bee-friendly flowers in your garden, putting out bird feeders in your neighbourhood, volunteering at a nature reserve, or cleaning up a portion of your local river can have a real impact. 

So, how else can you get involved?

There are lots of in-person events happening across the country this week. To find out if there's one happening near you this weekend, check out this programme: https://biodiversityweek.ie/events-calendar/.

Lots of the above events are suitable for kids, such as the 'Waterway Hero' free online workshop.

For budding photographers, don't forget to enter the Biodiversity Photographer of the Year competition. There is a €250 prize up for grabs! The last date for entries is May 31st.

There are also some great free online webinars for those looking to set up a community seed bank or learn more about pollinators.

Meanwhile, the National Biodiversity Data Centre has some excellent free courses on helping you identify and monitor butterflies, bumblebees, and dragonflies in your environment. Learn more about seashore biodiversity with their 'Marine Biodiversity Citizen Science' course.

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Check out the Hikes & Trails or Attractions tabs in the Xplore Local App to discover beautiful nature trails and nature reserves near you!