Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O'Sullivan TD, has announced €1.1 million in support for biodiversity projects across Ireland, with 53 community initiatives in 20 counties set to receive funding through the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) Peatlands and Natura Community Engagement Scheme 2026.

The scheme encourages community and volunteer groups to conserve and restore Natura 2000 Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) and Special Protection Areas (SPAs), as well as peatland habitats, to build public awareness of and engagement with Ireland's natural heritage.

Announcing the funding, Minister O'Sullivan said: "Through this €1m investment, we are helping communities all across the country to take action to support local habitats and wildlife in some of our most important places for nature. The 53 successful projects this year include research on whales and porpoises in Kenmare Bay and Donegal Bay, woodland restoration in counties Meath, Wicklow and Clare, alongside measures to protect Marsh Fritillary butterflies in the Burren, a turlough survey in Co Kilkenny, removal of rhododendron in Co Dublin and peatland restoration on sites all over the country. I'd like to congratulate the community groups and volunteers who put their time, energy and expertise in to making these valuable projects happen, and I'm delighted to be able to increase the amount of funding available this year so that the scheme can have an even greater impact."

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Niall O'Donnchú, Director General with the National Parks and Wildlife Service, said: "Investing in local initiatives not only preserves biodiversity but also strengthens community ties and fosters a shared sense of responsibility for nature. The National Parks and Wildlife Service is committed to this approach which is key to tackling the biodiversity crisis."

Approved projects this year include:

- Surveys to inform management plans for Natura 2000 and peatland sites.

- Public engagement through targeted outreach.

- Education programmes to raise awareness of conservation efforts.

Collectively, the funded projects highlight the central role communities play in safeguarding Ireland's unique landscapes and biodiversity. The scheme is designed to deepen public engagement with the natural environment, and a full list of projects funded is available on gov.ie.