Podcasthon: IWDG and IWT

Conservation and Science

Irish Whale and Dolphin Group and Irish Wildlife Trust.

This episode is part of the global Podcasthon initiative, in which podcasters worldwide dedicate one episode to their chosen charity. To maximise impact, all episodes are published in a single week. I’m showcasing two of the most influential Irish environmental charities: the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group and the Irish Wildlife Trust.

The conversation with Pádraig Whooley from the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group reveals the challenges facing marine life in Irish waters. Pádraig explains how they've expanded from focusing solely on sightings and strandings to include welfare issues for living stranded animals. He discusses alarming changes in whale behaviour, linking them to destructive fishing practices where large trawlers target vital forage fish that form the foundation of marine ecosystems. Pádraig emphasises that successful conservation would involve implementing bans on industrial-scale fishing in Irish coastal waters and establishing meaningful marine protected areas—not just 'paper parks' but properly managed conservation zones.

Kieran Flood from the Irish Wildlife Trust shares insights into one of Ireland's longest-established nature charities. Founded in 1979, the organisation focuses on protecting and restoring Ireland's natural heritage through education, advocacy, and developing nature reserves. Kieran explains that despite Ireland's green reputation, Irish biodiversity faces serious threats from intensive agriculture, forestry practices, and industrial fishing. The trust is currently focusing on supporting the implementation of the EU Nature Restoration Law, campaigning for effective marine protected areas through the Fair Seas coalition, and expanding their rewilding projects. He emphasises that perhaps the most important change needed is a fundamental shift in how people understand their connection to nature, recognising that humans are not separate from the natural world but an integral part of it.

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