Over 2,000 trees planted at Limerick school as part of major biodiversity project

ONE LIMERICK school has further cemented its commitment to sustainability and biodiversity with the planting of over 2,000 native Irish trees.

Coláiste Chiaráin, Croom, planted the trees in April, setting the foundation for what is thought to become “a magnificent tree-lined avenue” leading into the school.

This latest initiative builds on the school’s ongoing environmental stewardship following the establishment 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 partnership 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 Limerick Council for their ongoing support.

READ ALSO: Home and business owners in Limerick asked to be 'wise' with food waste

Principal Gerard O’Sullivan said: “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, environmental action and a fitting continuation of the rich biodiversity work already undertaken on our campus.”

Coláiste Chiaráin 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.

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.

READ ALSO: Limerick family-run business win a 'money can’t buy' prize from Google Ireland

Príomh Comhairleoir of Limerick, Cllr. Dan McSweeney 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.”

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.

Commenting on this latest initiative and partnership, Carmel Lynch of Council said: “This fantastic initiative by Coláiste Chiaráin is more important than ever as we face the challenges of the climate crisis.

“This project demonstrates how local action can contribute to a healthier planet.”