Green Kilometre Scheme- Ireland #
An increase in walking and cycling since the lockdowns began has made many people aware of both the litter that may be seen along the roadside, but also the wildlife that exists in the hedgerows and roadside margins. People may also notice built heritage features such as old gates, water pumps etc. As a response to this we have created the Green
Kilometre scheme. With over 3,600 kilometres of roads in the county, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved!
The scheme invites individuals/groups to choose approximately a kilometre (or longer) stretch of road/loop in their area- preferably a quiet, local road in terms of safety. The group or individual would then commit to maintaining the chosen stretch over the course of the year.
Incentives of some native trees, litter pickers, bags and gloves are on offer for all participating individuals/groups.
Problem addressed #
The scheme is an opportunity for citizens or a community to work together on a project which benefits everybody.
Objectives & implementation #
The following are examples of the work/activities that can be included:
– Removing litter
– Planting appropriate native trees and shrubs
– Restoring heritage features such as old farm gates or walls (permission from landowners should be obtained first and protected
structures should only be maintained following professional advice)
– Report illegal dumping
– Improving hedges (sections of traditional hedge laying would be very welcome)
– Note that hedge cutting is banned from March 1st to September 1st
– Cleaning and maintaining signs
To assist participants a clean-up kit including litter pickers, hi-vis vests, bags and gloves are available and can be requested.
The council also has available a selection of birch, alder, rowan, whitethorn, blackthorn and beech small trees to distribute to groups who wish to plant some native trees in their area as part of this project. Some of the saplings will be sent out in February and later applications will receive their saplings in the October/November for winter planting season.
Do’s and Don’t for taking part:
– Wash and sanitise hands before and after litter picking
– Place litter directly into bags, do not handle
– Store bags in safe place for collection
– if you come across bags dumped in your area, report the to us, don’t open them.
– Wear and use PPE
– Be Safe – Be Seen – always follow safety advice when out walking or litter picking.
Stakeholders #
The main beneficiaries of the project are the local communities whose hedgerows and roads are kept litter free and the wider community who will enjoy the new trees being planted.
Timescale #
Ongoing
Fields of application #
Local authority
Transferability #
This is a highly transferable project. Already a good number of local authorities across Ireland are introducing similar schemes. Very little
administration burden is required.
Impact & Results #
This project is very successful with many hundreds of kilometers of public roads in Ireland now being managed in this way with enormous benefit to the ‘look and feel’ of the region.
