The Green Clubs Programme was established to support Gaelic Games clubs in taking simple and effective sustainability action in their grounds and activities. The Programme is structured around the themes of Water, Biodiversity, Waste, Energy and Travel & Transport and is designed to promote sustainability awareness and action in GAA clubs and communities.
The GAA Green Clubs Programme
The GAA Green Clubs Programme (Green Clubs Programme (gaa.ie)) is a partnership between the GAA, LGFA and Camogie Association and local authorities across Ireland. This partnership has its origins in the Sustainable Development Goals Champions Programme.
Phase 1
Phase 1 of the Green Clubs Programme was completed in 2022/23, with the participation of over 30 clubs from across Ireland, these Green Clubs established Green Teams, carried out club audits and engaged in exciting sustainability partnerships and projects. LAWPRO provides guidance and expertise on the water and biodiversity themes of the initiative.
Throughout 2022/23 our Community Water Officers engaged with several clubs to help them on their journey, and we continue to visit and advise clubs taking water and biodiversity actions in and around their grounds. Some good examples of works supported by Community Water officers includes;
- Affane-Cappoquin GAA & Camogie Club, Co. Waterford: Planting of native trees around the club grounds close to the River Blackwater; installation of a water metre to monitor and control water usage.
- Midleton GAA, Co. Cork: created a three-acre nature area full of wildflowers on the club grounds.
- Mullingar Shamrocks, Co. Westmeath: have gone herbicide-free by replacing herbicide with a vinegar, soap and salt solution to maintain weeds.
A successful outcome from Phase 1 was the rollout of the GAA’s first ever Green Clubs Toolkit. LAWPRO as an expert partner supported the development of the water and biodiversity elements of the toolkit, which is now accessible to all clubs taking part in the Phase 2 of the initiative.
Picture: Ballina Stephenites GAA Clubs Hydration Station delivered using Water Funding provided by LAWPRO and administered by the GAA Green Clubs Team
Phase 2
In Phase 2 an additional 75 Clubs representing all 32 counties has been selected to participate in a structured Green Clubs Programme in 2024. The Green Clubs initiative will roll out to all clubs beyond Phase 2.
For more information on the programme https://www.gaa.ie/my-gaa/community-and-health/green-clubs-sustainability/
LAWPRO participates in the GAA Green Clubs Steering Committee and is now supporting Phase 2 clubs with support and advice. LAWPRO is also providing seed funding via our Water Action Fund.
Picture: Official launch of the GAA Green Clubs Phase 2 Programme, Croke Park, 3rd December 2022. Pictured from LAWPRO are Sheevaun Thompson, Bernie White and Tom Carolan
Green Clubs Ideas – Interactive Graphic available here: Green Club Interactive (gaa.ie)