How do rural communities prepare for climate change when global commitment seems to be wavering? What does real climate adaptation look like on the ground? Can local knowledge be as valuable as academic expertise when it comes to building resilient communities? These are the questions we tackle in this special episode, which launches a new series following a two-year Community Climate Adaptation Training and Mentoring Programme in Kerry.

Today I'm joined by six guests. John Loughrey from NEWKD explains how the LEADER programme evolved from having one small climate sub-theme to making it a major focus. Micheál Ó Cóileáin, Mary Kiernan, Thomas O'Connor, Niamh Ní Dhúill and Catríona Fallon from Transition Kerry share their experiences working on these issues since 2007. Together, NEWKD and Transition Kerry developed an ambitious programme to work with local communities across Co. Kerry. Our conversation covers everything from the practical details of the programme to the philosophy behind it, including wisdom about using your head, heart and hands to create the future you want.

This is the first episode in a series where we'll be following the programme over the next two years. We'll be speaking with participants and community leaders as they work through the various phases of capacity building, from initial meetings through to implementing climate adaptation projects in their own communities.

To sign up or find out more, contact [email protected]

or go to www.adaptationkerry.transitionkerry.org

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