The Dept of Education has announced €500,000 in funding for ten youth-led climate justice projects taking place across Ireland in 2026.
Projects include a mix of national and regional initiatives, including a programme of social innovation in the west of Ireland and a scouting programme centred on Lough Dan Scout and Eco Centre.
The Youth Climate Justice Fund helps young people aged 10 to 25 design and participate in projects that raise awareness, build skills and drive practical action on climate issues within their communities.
This year’s projects include:
A west of Ireland project strengthening climate literacy, youth leadership and civic engagement through workshops, digital storytelling and collaborative arts.
A series of themed events marking Climate Justice Week, culminating in an Earth Gala.
A Climate Justice residential for 50 young people led by the National Youth Council of Ireland.
A hydrogen education programme delivering an inclusive, hands-on approach to renewable energy to 100 young people.
A project focusing on UN Sustainable Development Goal 15(Life on Land), including activities such as bird-box building and conservation tasks.
The development and distribution of Climate Justice toolkits for volunteers and youth workers.
A sustainable theatre-making initiative promoting environmentally responsible practices in costumes, sets and design.
The establishment and development of a Youth Climate Justice Innovation Team at Lough Dan in Co Wicklow.
Organisation Allocation (€)
ECO-UNESCO consortium €99,996
National Youth Council
of Ireland consortium €84,985
Kinia €45,000
Ogras €30,800
Localise Youth Volunteering €30,000
Youth Work Ireland €50,000
Scouting Ireland €49,999
Young Social Innovators €49,832
Foroige €35,855
Youth Theatre Ireland €23,533