Eco Eye

New research suggests Irish bird populations have seen dramatic declines across the country. Ecologist Anja Murray investigates the reasons behind this alarming decline, and what, if anything can be done to slow or stop the falling numbers.

Agriculture is facing huge shocks from climate change, but the world's agri-food system is also one of the biggest causes of climate change. Making our food systems, and particularly livestock farming, more sustainable and resilient is a challenge.

Clinical psychologist Dr Clare Kambamettu is concerned about climate change and the future, and finds out that the problem is psychological as well as technical and political.

Duncan Stewart reports on spatial planning, exploring past mistakes in housing development, and asking what needs to be done to house Ireland's growing population in the future.

In the modern world there are food choices our ancestors could never have dreamt of. But not all foods are created equally, as food production is a major cause of climate change. Dr Lara Dungan looks at the environment and health implications of different diets, and tastes new replacements to meat and dairy products, asking whether they can really become mainstream.

Ireland has over 70,000 kilometres of rivers and over 12,000 lakes, famous worldwide for their beauty, wildlife and fishing, but this priceless resource is being taken for granted. Research states that over half of Irish waterways don't meet the basic standards of good water quality, which is essential for maintaining healthy wildlife habitats. Anja Murray travels across the country, showcasing some of the inventive ways local communities have engaged with and improved their local water bodies.

Over one week in September 2019, more than 7.6 million people in 185 countries walked out of schools and businesses in the biggest coordinated effort in global climate action ever recorded. But why are kids in large numbers skipping school to protest and appeal for a future they think is slipping away? Will it change anything? Clinical psychologist Clare Kambamettu meets school climate-strikers across the country to hear their fears and their demands.

Over the past 30 years, Ireland has expanded its road network at a stunning rate. But more roads mean more traffic, and cities are at a standstill. Duncan Stewart examines the divisive Bus Connects project, which proposes billions of euros of investment in new quality bus corridors, designed to increase reliability and reduce bus journey times. The project, however, has been met with stiff opposition.

Dr Clare Kambamettu looks at the practical tips everyone can take to protect the environment, as well as debunking some of the myths surrounding personal carbon emissions and finding out which actions have the most effect.