Midlands 103

Midlands 103 is the local radio station for Laois, Offaly and Westmeath. Its flagship programme Midlands Today Show with Will Faulkner is broadcast from 9am until noon Monday to Friday. It  features news, sport and panel discussions on everything from politics and current affairs to lifestyle and entertainment. 77,000 people tune in to Midlands 103 every day.

Recent entries

July 15, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 50 – Biodiversity in Schools

Irish schools prioritize environmental education, integrating biodiversity conservation into the curriculum. Here's a snapshot of their efforts:

  • Green Schools Programme:
      • An Taisce's initiative fosters sustainability through student-led action plans.
      • Schools focus[...]

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July 15, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 50 – Biodiversity in Schools

Irish schools prioritize environmental education, integrating biodiversity conservation into the curriculum. [...]

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July 15, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 49 – K’Gari

K'Gari, also known as Fraser Island, is the largest sand island in the world, located off the southeastern coast of Queensland, Australia. It is renowned for its natural beauty and diverse ecosystems, including ancient rainforests, pristine lakes, and expansive sand dunes. Geography and Formation:

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July 15, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 49 – K’Gari

K'Gari, also known as Fraser Island, is the largest sand island in the world, located off the southeastern coast of Queensland, Australia. It is renowned for its natural beauty and diverse ecosystems, including ancient rainforests, pristine lakes, and expansive sand dunes.[...]

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July 15, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 48 – Public Transport

Public transport in Ireland plays a significant role in helping the environment in several ways:

  1. Reducing Carbon Emissions: Public transportation helps reduce the number of cars on the road, which in turn reduces carbon emissions and helps in combating air pollution and climate[...]

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July 15, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 48 – Public Transport

Listen back to this week's episode as we look at the importance of a strong public transport network.[...]

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July 15, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 47 – Food Waste

Food waste is a major global issue, with up to one-third of all food produced in the world being wasted each year. In Ireland, the average household throws out approximately €700 worth of food every year, while the food industry generates around 80,000 tonnes of food waste annually. More

July 15, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 47 – Food Waste

Food waste is a major global issue, with up to one-third of all food produced in the world being wasted each year. In Ireland, the average household throws out approximately €700 worth of food every year, while the food industry generates around 80,000 tonnes of food waste[...]

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July 15, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 46 – Grow your Own

Here are some benefits of growing your own food, along with 5 easy ways you can start growing your own fruits and vegetables:

  • Benefits:
1.Fresh and Nutritious Food
  1. Saves Money
  2. Promotes Sustainability
  3. Encourages Physical Activity
  4. More

July 15, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 46 – Grow your Own

Growing your own food can be a fulfilling and rewarding experience that not only benefits your health and well-being, but also the environment. [...]

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July 15, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 45 – Human Behaviour

Psychology, the study of human behavior and mental processes, reveals how our actions towards the environment are shaped by psychological factors. Here's a summary:

  • Perception: Our perception of the environment is influenced by past experiences, culture, and beliefs, affecting how we interact with it.

July 15, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 45 – Human Behaviour

Listen back to this weeks episode as we delve into the psychology of climate change and human behaviour.[...]

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July 15, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 44 – No Mow May

Did you know?   Benefits:

  • Food Source: Wildflowers offer abundant nectar and pollen.
  • Habitat: Longer grass provides nesting and shelter.
  • Biodiversity: Promotes diverse plant species.
  • Reduced Chemicals: Limits harmful chemical exposure.
Implementation:

July 15, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 44 – No Mow May

No Mow May" conserves bee habitats by letting natural vegetation grow, aiding bee nutrition, nesting, biodiversity, and reducing chemical exposure. [...]

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July 15, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 43 – Bottle Return Scheme

The Bottle Return Scheme is an innovative initiative aimed at promoting recycling and reducing plastic waste in the Midlands region of Ireland.  

  • Launched this year, the scheme incentivizes bottle returns and aims to increase recycling rates and decrease littering. 
 

July 15, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 43 – Bottle Return Scheme

The Bottle Return Scheme is an innovative initiative aimed at promoting recycling and reducing plastic waste in the Midlands region of Ireland.[...]

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April 28, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 42 – Cloncrow Bog

Nestled in the scenic Tyrellpass area of County Westmeath,  Cloncrow Bog stands as a sanctuary of biodiversity and historical intrigue. This natural gem is not only renowned for its picturesque landscapes but also for its vital role in sustaining a diverse array of plant and animal life.   More

April 28, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 42 – Cloncrow Bog

Listen back to this week's episode as we explore the Cloncrow Bog with Eugene Dunbar from Ethos (Everything Tyrrellspass Has, On Show).  For more in this series listen into Midlands 103 every Thursday at 11.20am.[...]

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April 28, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 41 – Conscious Lingerie and Fast Fashion

Fast fashion, characterised by rapid production and turnover of inexpensive clothing to meet current trends, has profound environmental implications. Textile Production: Fast fashion relies on oil-based synthetics and water-intensive cotton, depleting resources and exacerbating water scarcity. Pollution: Dyeing processes release harmful chemicals, while synthetic fibers shed microplastics, polluting[...]

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April 28, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 41 – Conscious Lingerie and Fast Fashion

Listen back to this week's episode as Sinead explores the impact of sustainable underwear in a world of fast fashion. For more in this series listen in to Midlands 103 every Thursday at 11.20am.[...]

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April 28, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 40 – Fireblight in Ireland

Fire blight, caused by Erwinia amylovora, devastates pome fruit trees globally. In Ireland, where apple and pear orchards are vital to agriculture, it threatens crop yields and industry sustainability. This brief covers fire blight's impact, symptoms, management, and regulations.   It causes economic losses through yield reduction, quality[...]

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April 28, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 40 – Fireblight in Ireland

Listen back to this week's episode as Sinead chats with Katie Smirnova, Hedgerows Ireland about the issue of Fireblight in Ireland.  For more in this series listen in to Midlands 103 every Thursday at 11.20am.[...]

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April 28, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 39 – Transforming your Living spaces

Dermot Bannon is an Irish architect and television personality best known for his role as the presenter of the popular home renovation show, "Room to Improve." With his expertise in architecture and design, Bannon has offers valuable insights into transforming living spaces while emphasizing sustainability and energy efficiency.

April 28, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 39 – Transforming your Living spaces

Listen back to this week's episode as Sinead chats to Dermot Bannon,an Irish architect and television personality best known for his role as the presenter of the popular home renovation show, "Room to Improve." With his expertise in architecture and design, Bannon has offers valuable[...]

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April 28, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 38 – VR Technology & Training

Did you know? VR can contribute to waste reduction in training:   Simulated Training Environments:  VR enables apprentices to train in virtual environments mirroring real-world scenarios, minimizing resource consumption like raw materials and energy.   Risk-Free Skill Development:  With VR, apprentices can practice without physical repercussions, fostering experimentation and learning without[...]

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April 28, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 38 – VR Technology

Listen back to this week's episode as we find out about how Virtual reality (VR) offers promising solutions for reducing waste during apprenticeship training by providing immersive, interactive, and realistic environments. For more in this series listen in to Midlands 103 every Thursday at 11.20am.[...]

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April 28, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 37 – Wind Farms and Community Engagement

Did you know? Community engagement is crucial for wind farm development in Ireland, fostering transparency and collaboration between developers and local residents. As Ireland expands its renewable energy efforts, effective community engagement practices are gaining importance among developers and policymakers. Key Components of Community Engagement:

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April 28, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 37 – Wind Farms and Community Engagement

Listen back to this week's episode as Sinead chats with Yvonne O Brien Wind Energy Ireland and Karina Dennigan, Bord Na Mona about Windfarms and Community Engagement.  For more in this series listen in to Midlands 103 every Thursday at 11.20am.[...]

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April 28, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 36 – Retrofitting Your Home

Did you know? Retrofitting your home in Ireland involves making upgrades to improve energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions, enhance comfort, and lower energy bills. With the aim of achieving Ireland's climate targets and transitioning to a low-carbon future, retrofitting initiatives are increasingly encouraged and supported by government schemes and[...]

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April 28, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 36 – Retrofitting Your Home

Listen back to this week's episode as Sinead chats with Minister Pippa Hackett and Architect Hugh Wallace, about the value of retrofitting your home.  For more in this series, listen in to Midlands 103 every Thursday at 11.20am.[...]

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April 28, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 35 – District Heating

Did you know? District heating provides efficient heat and hot water from a centralized source, gaining traction in Ireland for carbon reduction and sustainable development. This factsheet explores its status, benefits, challenges, and future. Current Status:  Ireland's district heating systems are limited but growing, notably in urban areas like[...]

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April 28, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 35 – District Heating

Listen back to this week's episode as Sinead Hubble chats about sustainable heating with Yvonne Murphy, Irish District Energy Association.  For more in this series listen in to Midlands 103 every Thursday at 11.20am.[...]

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February 14, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 34 – Bioenergy

Did you know? Bioenergy is a form of renewable energy generated when we burn biomass fuel. Why do we use bioenergy? We need to reduce the amount of fossil fuel we burn to meet carbon reduction goals. Bioenergy serves as a renewable, low-carbon alternative to fossil fuels, particularly valuable in hard-to-reach[...]

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February 14, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 34 – Bioenergy

Listen back to this week's episode as we chat to Seán Finan, CEO or the Irish Bioenerygy Association.  For more in this series listen in to Midlands 103 every Thursday at 11.20am.[...]

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February 14, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 33 – Climate Action Companies

Accelerate Green 2024 Business Participants Bord na Móna is a leading climate solutions and renewable energy company in Ireland, dedicated to fostering a climate-neutral future. With almost 90 years of community service, the company is expanding its efforts to secure green energy for the future and support Ireland's 2030[...]

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February 14, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 33 – Climate Action Companies

Listen back to this week's episode as we chat to Simon Coveney, Enterprise Minister about Climate Action companies in Ireland.  For more in this series listen in to Midlands 103 every Thursday at 11.20am[...]

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February 14, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 32 – Solar Energy

Irish Solar Energy Association (ISEA) Overview: ISEA commits to achieving 20% of Ireland's electricity from solar by 2030. Through engagement and education, it advocates for best practices to maximize Irish solar generation. Government Support: The Irish government backs solar through initiatives like SSRH and SSRE, fostering solar technology adoption[...]

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February 14, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 32 – Solar Energy

Listen back to this week's episode as we chat to Conall Bolger CEO of the Irish Solar Energy Association.  For more in this series listen in to Midlands 103 every Thursday at 11.20am[...]

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January 23, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 31 – Biodiversity and Wind Farms

BIODIVERSITY & WIND FARMS IN IRELAND

This factsheet explores key aspects of this relationship, highlighting both challenges and opportunities for sustainable coexistence.

Wind Energy in Ireland: Crucial for sustainability goals, wind energy in Ireland significantly reduces reliance on fossil fuels. Biodiversity in Ireland: More

January 23, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 31 – Biodiversity and Wind Farms

Listen back to this weeks episode as Sinead Hubble chats with Elaine Dromey, the in-house ecology specialist in renewable energy and Karina Dennigan the Manager for Powergen Development at Bord na Mona. For more in this series listen in to Midlands 103 every Thursday at 11.20am.[...]

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January 23, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 30 – Offshore Energy Ireland

OFFSHORE WIND TECHNOLOGY IN IRELAND Ireland's offshore wind sector thrives, propelled by vast coastlines and robust wind resources. Vital government commitment fosters growth, targeting 5 GW by 2030.   Strategic Location: Ireland's coastlines enable offshore wind farm deployment, benefitting from favorable conditions in the Irish Sea and[...]

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January 23, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 30 – Offshore Energy Ireland

Listen back to this week's episode as Sinead Hubble chats with Úna Brosnan - Director - Innovative Climate Solutions Limited about the potential for Offshore Energy use in Ireland.  For more in this series listen in to Midlands 103 every Thursday at 11.20am.[...]

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January 23, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 29 – Recycling

RECYCLE RIGHT

Bin Separation:
  • Sort materials into designated bins by category: Paper, Plastic, Glass, Metal, and Organic Waste.
Plastic Recycling:
  • Identify recycling symbols and numbers on plastic items.
  • Remove caps and lids before[...]

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January 23, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 29 – Recycling

Listen back to this week's episode as we discuss how to kick off the new year and recycle right! For more in this series listen in to Midlands 103 every Thursday at 11.20am[...]

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January 23, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 28 – Careers in Renewable Energy

RENEWABLE ENERGY JOBS IN IRELAND

  Ireland's renewable energy sector drives a sustainable future, opening diverse job prospects across engineering, project management, data analysis, and more.   Job Diversity: From engineers to researchers, diverse skill sets find roles in Ireland's renewable energy sector.   Skill Sets in Demand:[...]

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January 23, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 28 – Careers in Renewable Energy

Listen back to this week's episode as we chat to James Delahunt, Corporate Finance Partner at KPMG Sustainable Futures.  For more in this series listen in to Midlands 103 every Thursday at 11.2oam[...]

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January 23, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 26 – A Sustainable Christmas

CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION

Go green this Christmas! Choose sustainably, support locals, and reduce impact. Use our factsheet for an eco-friendlier celebration.    Decorations:  Opt for reusable, DIY decorations and LED lights for sustainability. Gifts: Choose local, ethically-produced gifts. Wrap with reusable or recycled materials. Tree: Pick a potted tree[...]

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January 23, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 26 – A Sustainable Christmas

Listen back to this week's episode as Sinead Hubble chats with Jack O Sullivan, Zero Waste Alliance about how you can have a more sustainable Christmas.  For more in this series listen in to Midlands 103 every Thursday at 11.20am.[...]

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January 23, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 25 – Energy Storage Solutions

ADVANCING ENERGY SUSTAINABILITY IN IRELAND Ireland seeks energy sustainability through innovative solutions. Battery storage and hydrogen tech promise a cleaner, resilient energy future. Learn more in this factsheet.   Ireland's Efforts:  ESB's Storage Project: Enhances grid flexibility, like the Moneypoint project.  Green Hydrogen Roadmap: Develops hydrogen infrastructure for transport[...]

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January 23, 2024

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 25 – Energy Storage Solutions

Listen back to this week's episode as Sinead Hubble explores Energy Storage solutions with Bobby Smith and Joe Devlin who is a Senior Analyst at Energia Group and Chair of Wind Energy Ireland Hydrogen Committee.  For more in this series listen in to Midlands 103 every Thursday at[...]

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November 28, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 24 – Net Zero

  Ireland's pursuit of a Net Zero electricity system showcases its dedication to sustainability and resilience in energy. Key Achievements: Renewable Energy Growth:

  • Marked increase in wind and solar power, especially in wind energy.
Energy[...]

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November 28, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 24 – Net Zero

Listen back to this week's episode as we talk to Paul Blount, Chair of Ireland net zero committee about Ireland's pursuit of a Net Zero electricity system.  For more in this series listen into Midlands 103 every Thursday at 11.20am.[...]

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November 28, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 23 – Energy Efficiency

Energy Efficiency in the Home - A Guide for Ireland In Ireland, where energy costs are high, this guide offers essential tips for efficiency.  

  • Insulation: Seal walls, roofs, and floors for better heat retention.

November 28, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 23 – Energy Prices

Listen back to this week's episode as we take a look at Energy Prices and talk to Dr. Paul Dean from UCC about fossil fuel reliance. For more in this series listen in to Midlands 103 every Thursday at 11.20am.[...]

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November 9, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 22 – Climate Change Council

  This Week Midlands 103 looked at the work of the Climate Change Advisory Council (CCAC) The Climate Change Advisory Council (CCAC) is an independent body that advises governments and policymakers on issues related to climate change.   Mission:  The CCAC[...]

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November 9, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 22 – Climate Change Council

Listen back to this week's episode as Midlands 103 examine the Climate Change Advisory Council (CCAC) which is an independent body that advises governments and policymakers on issues related to climate change. For more in this series listen in to Midlands 103 every Thursday at[...]

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November 9, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 21 – The importance of Pollinators

  Pollinator Significance:
  • Ecosystem Role: Bees, butterflies, birds, and bats are essential for plant reproduction and biodiversity.
  • Food Security: Animal pollination supports 75% of global food crops, ensuring diverse diets.
  • More

November 9, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 21 – Greashill Tidy Towns – Pollination

Listen back to this week's episode as Sinead Hubble chats with Pat Foley from Geashill Tidy Towns about their pollination plans for the area.  For more in this series listen in to Midlands 103 every Thursday at 11.20am.[...]

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November 9, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 20 – Westmeath Climate Action Plan

Did you know? The Irish Community Climate Action Program empowers local communities to support national climate goals. Launched in [year], it promotes sustainability, carbon reduction, biodiversity conservation, resilience building, and education:   Empowerment:  Equipping communities with tools and knowledge for local climate action.   Carbon Reduction:  Promoting energy efficiency, renewable energy,[...]

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November 9, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 20 – Westmeath Climate Action Plan

Listen back to this week's episode as chat with John Jackson, Community Climate Action Officer, Westmeath County Council about the county's climate action plan.  For more in this series listen in to Midlands 103 every Thursday 11.20am.[...]

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November 9, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 19 – Castlepollard Energy Masterplan

Did you know?  Energy Masterplans for Irish towns are holistic strategies for enhancing energy efficiency, sustainability, and environmental responsibility at the community level, providing a roadmap for towns toward a greener future.

  • Renewable Energy:
    • More

November 9, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 19 – Castlepollard Energy Masterplan

Listen back to this week's episode as Sinead Hubble catches up Lúgh Ó Braonáin from Energy Co-Ops about the work they do.  For more in this series listen in to Midlands 103 every Thursday at 11.20am.[...]

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November 9, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 18 – A closer look at Swifts

Did you know? Swifts (Apus apus) are captivating aerial acrobats that grace the Irish skies during summer. These slender birds are known for their remarkable flying skills and distinctive calls.   Identification: Appearance: Sleek, brown plumage, long curved wings,[...]

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November 9, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 18 – A closer look at Swifts

Listen back to this week's episode as Sinead Hubble chats with Jarek Majkusiak from the Offaly Swift Project.  For more in this series listen in to Midlands 103 every Thursday 11.20am.[...]

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October 16, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 17 – Ash Dieback

Did you know? Ash Dieback was identified in Ireland in 2012, this invasive pathogen poses a severe threat to the country's ash tree population, impacting both natural woodlands and cultivated plantations.   Symptoms:  Early signs include wilting, leaf loss, distinctive diamond-shaped bark[...]

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October 16, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 17 – Ash Dieback

Listen back to this week's episode we we chat to Michael McEvoy from The Farm Forestry Producers Group about the impact of Ash Die back disease on our tree population.  For more in this series listen in to Midlands 103 every Thursday at 11.20am[...]

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October 16, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 16 – The Gaelic Woodland Project

Did you know? The Gaelic Woodland Project is a volunteer-run charity committed to the creation and protection of native Irish woodlands. Ireland was once 80% forested; only 0.6% of our Old Oak Woodlands remain.   🌳 The Gaelic Woodland[...]

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October 16, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 16 – The Gaelic Woodland Project

The Gaelic Woodland Project is a volunteer-run charity committed to the creation and protection of native Irish woodlands. Ireland was once 80% forested; only 0.6% of our Old Oak Woodlands remain.  Listen back as we explore the impact of this project across the Midland Region. For more in this[...]

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September 27, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 15 – Bee’s

Bees in Ireland

  Irish bees are vital pollinators, contributing to biodiversity and agriculture. Learn about their importance, threats, and conservation efforts. Bee Species in Ireland:
  • 99 native species, including bumblebees and solitary bees.
Importance of Bees:

September 27, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 15 – Bee’s

Bees in Ireland

  Irish bees are vital pollinators, contributing to biodiversity and agriculture. Learn about their importance, threats, and conservation efforts. Bee Species in Ireland:
  • 99 native species, including bumblebees and solitary bees.
Importance of Bees:

September 27, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 14 – Spiders

Spiders in Ireland

Common Spiders in Ireland: Common House Spider (Steatoda grossa): Recognizable by its bulbous abdomen and cobweb. Garden Spider (Araneus diadematus): Known for intricate orb webs, often found in gardens. Zebra Spider (Salticus scenicus):[...]

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September 27, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 14 – Spiders

Listen back to this week's episode as we find out more about the Spiders of Ireland! For more in this series, listen in to Midlands 103 every Thursday at 11.20am[...]

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September 27, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 13 – Irish Crows!

  Did you know that 

  • Crows are not endangered in Ireland, thanks to their adaptability.
Myths and Folklore:
  • Linked to Celtic mythology and superstitions, crows symbolize mystery and magic.
Protection and Conservation:

September 27, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 13 – Irish Crows!

Listen back to this week's episode as we find out about Irish crows in Ireland who belong to the Corvidae family and are known for their intelligence. The Carrion Crow (Corvus corone) and Hooded Crow (Corvus cornix) are the primary species. This episode explores how[...]

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September 27, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 12 – Shannon Callows

The Shannon Callows

The Shannon Callows is a natural area situated along the banks of the River Shannon in Offaly.   Location: Along River Shannon's banks in Offaly. Unique Landscape: Ecologically vital floodplain with wetlands, grasslands, meandering waterways. Biodiversity[...]

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September 27, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 12 – Shannon Callows

Listen to this week's episode as Sinead Hubble talks to Catherine Finney from Birdwatch Ireland who is a Reading Wader expert and Ricky Whelan who is the Biodiversity Officer with Offaly County Council. For more in this series listen in to Midlands 103 every Thursday at 11.20am  [...]

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August 28, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 11 – Irish Bogs

  Did you know? Bogs cover a significant portion of the island of Ireland They are vital for biodiversity, carbon storage, and water. Management of bogland now involves cutaway bogs and restoration. While cutaway bogs served previous[...]

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August 28, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 11 – Irish Bogs

Bogs cover 17% of Ireland and are vital for biodiversity, carbon storage, and water. Listen back to this episode as we discuss the importance and diversity of Irish bogland. For more on this series listen in to Midlands 103 every Thursday at 11.20am[...]

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August 28, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 10 – Irish Wildflowers

WILDFLOWERS IN IRELAND Ireland's diverse ecosystems and temperate climate nurture a rich tapestry of wildflowers. Discover some iconic blooms that grace the landscape and respect and protect these treasures as you explore Ireland's countryside, ensuring their beauty thrives for[...]

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August 28, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 10 – Irish Wildflowers

Listen back to this weeks episode on Midlands 103 as we discuss the diversity and beauty of native Irish wildflowers with bio-diversity officer at Offaly County Council Ricky Whelan and Dr. Fiona McGowan who is a botanist and professional ecologist. For more in this series listen in every Thursday at[...]

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August 15, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 9 – Buzzards

  Distribution and Habitat: Buzzards are widespread throughout Ireland, inhabiting rural, woodland, coastal, and marshland areas. Physical Description: Medium-sized raptors with variable brown plumage, broad wings, and a pale head with a dark stripe. Behavior and Habits: Active during[...]

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August 15, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 9 – Buzzards

Listen back to this weeks episode as Sinéad Hubble chats to Niall Hatch from Birdwatch Ireland and Ricky Whelan, Biodiveristy Officer with Offaly County Council about the introduction of Buzzards to Ireland.  For more in this series, listen in to Midlands 103 every Thursday at 11.20am[...]

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August 15, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 8 – Nest Boxes

  Bird species attracted: The birds using your nestbox depend on its type. Traditional nestboxes with 25mm, 28mm, and 32mm holes attract Blue Tit, Coal Tit, Great Tit, Tree Sparrow, and House Sparrow respectively. Open-fronted nestboxes: Blackbirds, Robins, and Wrens[...]

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August 15, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 8 – Nest Boxes

Listen back to this weeks episode as Sinead Hubble chats to Ricky Whelan, Biodiversity Officer with Offaly County Council and Niall Hatch from Birdwatch Ireland about Nest Boxes. For more in this series, listen in to Midlands 103 every Thursday at 11.20am[...]

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August 15, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 7 – Combatting Vaping

  Disposable vaping devices present several challenges to the current waste collection and recycling system, for example: Where lithium-ion batteries are contained in waste devices, these can present a risk to the health and safety. When damaged, short-[...]

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August 15, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 7 – Vaping

Listen back to this episode as Will Faulkner explores the impact of vaping on our environment. For more in series listen in to Midlands 103 every Thursday at 11.20am[...]

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July 28, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 6 – Offaly County Climate Action Plan

  This week we looked at Offaly County Councils Climate Action Plan 2024-2029.  Local authorities mandated to prepare climate action plans under Climate Action and Low Carbon Development (Amendment) Act 2021 Section 12B (2)   The Climate Action[...]

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July 28, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 6 – Offaly County Climate Action Plan

Listen back to this weeks episode as Sinead Hubble chats with John McNally, Climate Action Co-ordinator with Offaly County Council about their plans for Climate Action and sustainable change.  For more in this series listen in every Thursday at 11.20am[...]

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July 28, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 5 – The Dusk Chorus

  This week we looked at the Dusk Chorus From Birds In Ireland in our Ours To Protect episode Did you know? The Dusk Chorus from birds occurs during dust bathing, a behavior where birds create shallow depressions in loose soil,[...]

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July 28, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 4 – The energy edition

Listen back to this weeks episode as we talk all things Energy and chat to Dermot Casey, Chair of IRDG, John Reilly, Head of Power Generation at Bórd na Mona and Angela Larkin, General Manager Ireland for Ocean Winds. For more in this series, Listen in to Midlands 103 every[...]

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July 28, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 4 – The energy edition

  The Evolution of Ireland's Energy Supply: A 20-year Overview  

Renewable Energy Expansion:

Ireland has experienced significant growth in wind power, with installations increasing from 276 MW in 2003 to over 5,000 MW in 2023.  

Decrease In Fossil[...]

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July 19, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tips 3 – Fridays for Future

Fridays for Future, initiated by Greta Thunberg, is a global movement led by young people that aims to raise public awareness about climate change and its potential consequences on the planet and future generations.  The movement demands immediate and effective action from governments, policymakers, and corporations to[...]

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July 3, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 3 – Fridays for Future in the Midlands

Listeback to Midlands Today on Midlands 103 and hear Ryan Dolan - founder of the midlands branch of Fridays for Future chat about how the international movement came to the Midlands!  For more in this series listen in to Midlands 103 every Thursday at[...]

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July 3, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 2 – Veganism

[...]

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July 3, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 2 – Veganism

Listen back to Midlands 103 as they explore the concept of transitioning to Veganism to promote sustainability and to reduce carbon emissions. Breda Maleney is a nutritionist who talks about the challenges and opportunities of moving to Vegan diet.    Listen in to Midlands 103 every Thursday at 11.20am[...]

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June 16, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Tip Sheet 1 – Accelerate Green – Carbon Dioxide and it’s impact on the environment

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June 15, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Weekly Episode 1 – Accelerate Green & De-carbonise

Listen in to Midlands 103 for their weekly episode in the 'Ours To Protect' series. Hear about the Accelerate Green Programme and about de-carbonising projects in the Midlands. This week we were joined by Adrian Costigan from NEG8 Carbon and John Favier from NanobOx as they discuss the latest[...]

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June 12, 2023

TITLE: Midlands 103 – Episode 1 – The Panel

Join Will Faulkner on Midlands Today as he kicks off the 'Ours To Protect' project. Listen to opinions from people on whether Ireland is doing enough in the area of climate change and hear him discuss what's happening locally. He's joined in studio by Caroline Hofman, The Cube, a[...]

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Midlands 103

https://stream.rcs.revma.com/tq45ca1vftzuv