The over 60s taking action!

During the highly successful One Westport Circular Economy event last June, we had many interesting talks on different aspects of sustainability and the circular economy.  One of the speakers, Jacinta Barrins presented us with a programme which she runs, voluntarily to raise awareness of our carbon footprint and how we might reduce it.  This programme is aimed at OVER 60s, as Jacinta says that we were not taught the science of climate change in schools or colleges, and many have become alienated or indifferent to it.

Jacinta Barrins has retired from her career at the UN, where her work focused on the environment and climate.  She now lives in Galway.

Her programme aims to have conversations about climate change in a friendly atmosphere, over a cup of tea as if visiting our neighbours! In fact, she often starts by showing in simple terms the connection between the cuppa and climate change.  Jacinta believes this is the best way to unravel and demystify the terms used in climate science and for building confidence for action.

Westport Eco-Congregation is delighted to have Jacinta Barrins with us in Westport for a six-session programme.  We will start on Tuesday, January 14th 2025 at 10.45 am and for the following four Tuesdays at the same time.  Our final session will be some weeks later on Tuesday, April 8th 2025.  Each session runs for two hours.

The first three steps of the course focus on understanding climate change, how it occurs, the challenges of changing behaviour and how to measure a carbon footprint.  The second three steps focus on supporting participants in implementing ONE action based on their carbon footprint results.  At step four, the participants identify ONE action they would like to work on.  The gap between the fifth and sixth sessions allows participants to work with their action!

The course will be held at Carrowbeg House in Westport and we welcome any over 60s who want to become more climate and carbon aware.  This  course is free to all participants, thanks to the generosity of Jacinta Barrins. 

Booking is essential as numbers are limited.  To book your place, please ring Brid McAuley at 086 8576425 or Mary Manning at 087 2421330.