EcoSikh Ireland Participated in Heritage Week: Exploring Biodiversity in Faith Grounds

Written By EcoSikh Ireland

17 August 2026

EcoSikh Ireland was delighted to participate in tonight's online talk "Havens for Nature: Supporting Biodiversity in Faith Grounds," hosted by The Heritage Council as part of Ireland's Heritage Week celebrations.

The Event

At 7:30pm this evening, a panel of expert speakers explored how faith communities can support biodiversity initiatives on their grounds. Satwinder Singh from EcoSikh Ireland joined representatives from The Heritage Council, the National Biodiversity Data Centre, Trócaire, the Church of Ireland, and Buddhist and community tidy towns organisations to share practical strategies for environmental action.

The free online session brought together faith groups and individuals interested in taking action for biodiversity on their faith grounds.

EcoSikh's Mission in Action

EcoSikh Ireland is an Irish organization led by members of the Sikh community. Our work reflects Sikh values of environmental stewardship and community service, as we partner with people across Ireland and environmental organisations to achieve our vision of a greener, more biodiverse nation.

Sacred Forest, Templeglantine (2022)

Our inaugural project established a thriving native forest. The results speak for themselves:

  • 1,200 native trees planted across 11 Irish tree species

  • 100+ volunteers contributed to the effort

  • 95% survival rate exceeded expectations

  • Up to 4 metres plant height achieved in just 18 months

  • Biodiversity hotspot providing habitat for insects, birds, bees, and butterflies

Freedom Forest, Greystones, Co. Wicklow (2023–2026)

Building on our success, Freedom Forest represents our most ambitious reforestation project to date:

  • 17 native tree species planted across approximately 4 acres

  • Planting spans the full period from 2023 to 2026

  • Over 90% survival rate demonstrates proven methodology

  • Home for all forms of life: insects, birds, bees, butterflies, and countless other species now find shelter and food in this emerging ecosystem

Community Engagement

Beyond our forest projects, EcoSikh Ireland is active in local environmental stewardship through park and beach cleanups across Dublin, preserving what we have already while raising awareness. We also run educational workshops for schools and community groups, ensuring the next generation understands the importance of biodiversity and environmental action.

Why This Matters

This Heritage Week session highlighted a critical opportunity. Faith grounds across Ireland represent an untapped resource for biodiversity conservation. These spaces—often undeveloped, held in trust for future generations—can become havens for native species while reflecting the spiritual values many communities hold around care for creation.

EcoSikh Ireland's experience demonstrates that ambitious environmental projects are possible at scale, with community support and clear strategy. Tonight we were able to share these lessons and learn from fellow faith-based environmental organisations working toward similar goals.

About the Event

Event: Havens for Nature: Supporting Biodiversity in Faith Grounds
Host: The Heritage Council
When: 17 August 2026, 7:30pm–8:45pm (Irish time)
Format: Online via Zoom
Contact: Meadhbh Bolger, Biodiversity Officer, The Heritage Council — mbolger@heritagecouncil.ie

EcoSikh Ireland