Encirc joins cross-Border climate change initiative

Encirc is proud to announce its participation in a landmark cross-Border initiative designed to tackle climate change while strengthening community relations across Cavan and Fermanagh.

The Empowering Communities for Climate Change programme, funded by a €290,000 grant from the International Fund for Ireland (IFI) under its Communities in Partnership Programme (CiPP), brings together community groups, development organisations, and private sector partners to address one of the most pressing global challenges—climate change—through local collaboration and leadership.

Director of Sustainability at Encirc, part of the Vidrala Group, Fiacre O’Donnell, has joined the initiative’s steering committee, bringing the company’s environmental leadership and cross-sectoral experience to the programme.

“At Encirc, we understand that meaningful climate action must be inclusive, collaborative, and rooted in local communities,” said Fiacre O’Donnell.

“This initiative is about far more than environmental responsibility—it’s about people and shared purpose. We’re honoured to work alongside Cavan County Local Development, the Fermanagh Trust, and other partners to support grassroots leadership and sustainable change.”

The two-year project will engage over 1,000 participants and includes:

• Community Climate Leadership Training
• Youth Climate Action Projects
• Study Visits
• The Establishment of Climate Action Hubs in Enniskillen and Cavan
• A Peacebuilding Through Climate Change Conference

The initiative is designed to shape climate resilience policies and practices through cross-border collaboration, ensuring that community voices contribute to long-term sustainability goals in both jurisdictions.

“This is a prime example of how business, civil society, and local communities can come together to build a future that is not only more sustainable, but more united. Climate change does not respect borders.

“Encirc remains committed to supporting climate resilience, circular economy practices, and collaborative action—both within our operations and in the wider communities we serve,” added Fiacre.

Lauri McCusker, director of Fermanagh Trust, said: “This initiative is a powerful example of how shared challenges like climate change can bring communities across the island of Ireland together.

“By engaging people at a local level and fostering cooperation between communities in Cavan and Fermanagh, we’re not only encouraging environmental responsibility, but also strengthening cross-border relationships and building peace.

“The Fermanagh Trust is proud to be part of this important partnership.”