Hi Everyone,
On Thursday, 14th May 2009, the Greenbox and some of its Network Members were featured on the RTE Six One News. James Hanrahan from Sligo Institute of Technology, Noeleen Tyrrell of Ard Nahoo Health Farm and Kevin Currid from Lough Allen Adventure Centre all took part in the interview with Eileen Magner.
To view the video clip, please click on the link below. Scroll down the page until you come to the heading "In Focus - Growth in eco-tourism". Well done to everyone involved for a great interview promoting the Greenbox and ecotourism.
http://www.rte.ie/news/2009/0514/6news.html
Showing posts with label advertising. Show all posts
Showing posts with label advertising. Show all posts
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Friday, April 3, 2009
NEW PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME AT LEITRIM DESIGN HOUSE identifying and answering the needs of the marketplace.
The Leitrim Design House is dedicated to supporting the creative industries in County Leitrim. As part of our 2009 Business Development Training Leitrim Design House will run a “New Product Development Programme”. The programme begins on April 15th at the Dock in Carrick-on-Shannon.
A member-based business development and marketing organisation the Leitrim Design House is dedicated to promoting excellence and economic development in the field of contemporary art, craft and design. The Leitrim Design House provides a strong support system for artists, designers and craft workers based in Leitrim and is a very clear example of how the talents of local people can be turned into a viable enterprise.
The “New Product Development Programme” will enable designers and makers to develop new suites of products or additions to existing ranges. It will help those working in creative business to determine what it is they really want to achieve from their own business. In these challenging economic times all businesses are looking at creative ways to develop and grow.
The programme is suitable for people from a wide range of disciplines including fashion, art, home wares, traditional and contemporary craft, photography, print & publishing and any organisation or individual wishing to develop, brand and promote a product or service.
Led by Eddie Shanahan this practical programme will address key issues from market research and consumer trends, sources of inspiration and competitor analysis. From research through to development it will cover crucial topics such as introduction to marketplace and promotion, market structure and strategy.
All aspects of developing your “own” creative business will be dealt with from marketing and design to range development, protecting intellectual property, brand development and presentation to market.
Eddie Shanahan works with a host of leading Irish and international companies and individuals and is one of Ireland’s leading experts on fashion, lifestyle and retail. He is a business consultant to several leading Irish design companies including Louise Kennedy, The Kilkenny group, Enterprise Ireland and Dunne’s stores.
His practical advise and guidance means this programme will be very hands on – working with real product created by individual designers .Participants will be supported and encouraged through a group dynamic and they will have the opportunity to learn from the experience of others as the programme progresses.
Delving into influences on contemporary lifestyle and how it assesses design, value and service participants will explore the emotional / rational dichotomy of selling.
The programme will define the characteristics of strong brands and assist participants in leveraging the power of their brands as a launch pad for new products.
The programme starts on the 15th of April and will run one day per month from 10.30 to 4pm on May 13th, June 10th and July 15th. The programme fee is €200.00 per person. For a booking form or further information contact Anna-Marie or Geraldine at the Leitrim Design House on 071 96 50533 or email info@leitrimdesignhouse.ie
The Leitrim Design House supports local creative industries and helps conserve the cultural identity of County Leitrim.
A member-based business development and marketing organisation the Leitrim Design House is dedicated to promoting excellence and economic development in the field of contemporary art, craft and design. The Leitrim Design House provides a strong support system for artists, designers and craft workers based in Leitrim and is a very clear example of how the talents of local people can be turned into a viable enterprise.
The “New Product Development Programme” will enable designers and makers to develop new suites of products or additions to existing ranges. It will help those working in creative business to determine what it is they really want to achieve from their own business. In these challenging economic times all businesses are looking at creative ways to develop and grow.
The programme is suitable for people from a wide range of disciplines including fashion, art, home wares, traditional and contemporary craft, photography, print & publishing and any organisation or individual wishing to develop, brand and promote a product or service.
Led by Eddie Shanahan this practical programme will address key issues from market research and consumer trends, sources of inspiration and competitor analysis. From research through to development it will cover crucial topics such as introduction to marketplace and promotion, market structure and strategy.
All aspects of developing your “own” creative business will be dealt with from marketing and design to range development, protecting intellectual property, brand development and presentation to market.
Eddie Shanahan works with a host of leading Irish and international companies and individuals and is one of Ireland’s leading experts on fashion, lifestyle and retail. He is a business consultant to several leading Irish design companies including Louise Kennedy, The Kilkenny group, Enterprise Ireland and Dunne’s stores.
His practical advise and guidance means this programme will be very hands on – working with real product created by individual designers .Participants will be supported and encouraged through a group dynamic and they will have the opportunity to learn from the experience of others as the programme progresses.
Delving into influences on contemporary lifestyle and how it assesses design, value and service participants will explore the emotional / rational dichotomy of selling.
The programme will define the characteristics of strong brands and assist participants in leveraging the power of their brands as a launch pad for new products.
The programme starts on the 15th of April and will run one day per month from 10.30 to 4pm on May 13th, June 10th and July 15th. The programme fee is €200.00 per person. For a booking form or further information contact Anna-Marie or Geraldine at the Leitrim Design House on 071 96 50533 or email info@leitrimdesignhouse.ie
The Leitrim Design House supports local creative industries and helps conserve the cultural identity of County Leitrim.
Monday, March 23, 2009
Low Impact Living Article
This is a good article that was posted on the website www.lowimpactliving.com. It contains a write up on the Greenbox and some of its members: The Gyreum ecolodge, Necarne Manor and Ireland Ecotours.
See article below:
These days, Ireland is becoming known for more than simply verdant hills, green beer and leprechauns. In fact, the country has recently grown quite serious about becoming an eco-friendly destination for tourists. Renowned for its emerald-hued natural beauty which attracts flocks of tourists, Ireland is transforming itself into a country that is quickly becoming as environmentally green as its renowned, lush countryside.
The Irish government is aware that approximately 80% of tourists to Ireland feel that the country’s pristine environment and scenic landscapes are a “ very important ” factor in their choice of Ireland as a holiday destination, making its efforts to offer greener tourism options all the more important.
For those tempted to pursue a green visit to the Emerald Isle, the country’s tourism organizations make it easy.
When most tourists think of Ireland, thoughts turn to quaint inns and hotels. The good news is that there are a growing number of green options in this very fetching category. To encourage hotels to go green, the country offers Green Hospitality Awards. In 2008, 81 out of the island nation’s 960 hotels were honored with one of the new, but already coveted awards.
Many of these are featured on Greenbox, Ireland’s eco-tourism website. The country also participates in the European Union’s green hotel certification program, the EU Flower Eco-Label. Though the initiative is new, Ireland already boasts eighteen accommodations that have earned the label.
For a stay in a classic Georgian manor home, travelers can book a room at the Necarne Manor. With rolling lawns, woods and gardens and an equestrian center, the Gothic Revival estate is as beautiful as it is green. Guests can bike along a nearby trail to a nearby nature reserve and the inn uses organic, fair trade and locally-produced food, even sourcing compost from the on-site stables.
Those yearning for something edgier can try the yurt-inspired Gyreum Eco-Lodge which might best be described as über-green in an Al Gore-on-steroids kind of way. Wind turbines power geothermal heating, solar panels provide hot water, traditional toilets connect to a reed bed, and there’s even an outside compost toilet. Rain from the enormous roof is collected and used for showers and toilets.
For a green tour of Ireland’s, well, greenery, book with Ireland Eco Tours which visits well and lesser-known sites, all from the comfort of a vegetable oil-powered bus.
Even Dublin’s charming lanes and streets are turning green. Completely novel and yet to hit the roads in the U.S., Ecocabs offer Dublin residents and tourists a green alternative to traditional taxis. A fleet of modern passenger tricycles operating a free shuttle service daily from April 1st-December 31st, Ecocabs promote fitness while reducing noise, congestion and carbon emissions.
Failte, the Irish tourism agency, is so committed to greening that it has added an environment section to its web site. The section includes an environmental action plan and carbon strategy. The agency is currently working on environmental standards for conference centers and golf courses and has already reviewed environmental practices in the tourism sector. Talk about your transparent government, a copy of the report with recommendations is on its website.
But it’s not just leprechauns and tourist agencies that are green in Ireland—the Irish are pursuing as many green initiatives for their own benefit. May 22-24 is the annual National Greener Ireland fair which includes information on carbon footprint reduction, energy preservation, and organic produce.
On a grander scale, Sustainable Energy Ireland is a one-stop source for information about grants, saving energy, education, and business approaches to adopting a sustainable energy approach.
According to the Irish tourist agency, “The future of Irish tourism is inextricably linked to the quality of the environment. [The] scenic landscapes, coastline, rivers and lakes and cultural heritage are the bedrock upon which Irish tourism has been built.”
The efforts of the Irish to ensure their environment and tourism thrive are more than mere blarney. While the existence of leprechauns might be debated, the efforts of the Irish to go green are as real as the green hills of Ireland itself.
See article below:
These days, Ireland is becoming known for more than simply verdant hills, green beer and leprechauns. In fact, the country has recently grown quite serious about becoming an eco-friendly destination for tourists. Renowned for its emerald-hued natural beauty which attracts flocks of tourists, Ireland is transforming itself into a country that is quickly becoming as environmentally green as its renowned, lush countryside.
The Irish government is aware that approximately 80% of tourists to Ireland feel that the country’s pristine environment and scenic landscapes are a “ very important ” factor in their choice of Ireland as a holiday destination, making its efforts to offer greener tourism options all the more important.
For those tempted to pursue a green visit to the Emerald Isle, the country’s tourism organizations make it easy.
When most tourists think of Ireland, thoughts turn to quaint inns and hotels. The good news is that there are a growing number of green options in this very fetching category. To encourage hotels to go green, the country offers Green Hospitality Awards. In 2008, 81 out of the island nation’s 960 hotels were honored with one of the new, but already coveted awards.
Many of these are featured on Greenbox, Ireland’s eco-tourism website. The country also participates in the European Union’s green hotel certification program, the EU Flower Eco-Label. Though the initiative is new, Ireland already boasts eighteen accommodations that have earned the label.
For a stay in a classic Georgian manor home, travelers can book a room at the Necarne Manor. With rolling lawns, woods and gardens and an equestrian center, the Gothic Revival estate is as beautiful as it is green. Guests can bike along a nearby trail to a nearby nature reserve and the inn uses organic, fair trade and locally-produced food, even sourcing compost from the on-site stables.
Those yearning for something edgier can try the yurt-inspired Gyreum Eco-Lodge which might best be described as über-green in an Al Gore-on-steroids kind of way. Wind turbines power geothermal heating, solar panels provide hot water, traditional toilets connect to a reed bed, and there’s even an outside compost toilet. Rain from the enormous roof is collected and used for showers and toilets.
For a green tour of Ireland’s, well, greenery, book with Ireland Eco Tours which visits well and lesser-known sites, all from the comfort of a vegetable oil-powered bus.
Even Dublin’s charming lanes and streets are turning green. Completely novel and yet to hit the roads in the U.S., Ecocabs offer Dublin residents and tourists a green alternative to traditional taxis. A fleet of modern passenger tricycles operating a free shuttle service daily from April 1st-December 31st, Ecocabs promote fitness while reducing noise, congestion and carbon emissions.
Failte, the Irish tourism agency, is so committed to greening that it has added an environment section to its web site. The section includes an environmental action plan and carbon strategy. The agency is currently working on environmental standards for conference centers and golf courses and has already reviewed environmental practices in the tourism sector. Talk about your transparent government, a copy of the report with recommendations is on its website.
But it’s not just leprechauns and tourist agencies that are green in Ireland—the Irish are pursuing as many green initiatives for their own benefit. May 22-24 is the annual National Greener Ireland fair which includes information on carbon footprint reduction, energy preservation, and organic produce.
On a grander scale, Sustainable Energy Ireland is a one-stop source for information about grants, saving energy, education, and business approaches to adopting a sustainable energy approach.
According to the Irish tourist agency, “The future of Irish tourism is inextricably linked to the quality of the environment. [The] scenic landscapes, coastline, rivers and lakes and cultural heritage are the bedrock upon which Irish tourism has been built.”
The efforts of the Irish to ensure their environment and tourism thrive are more than mere blarney. While the existence of leprechauns might be debated, the efforts of the Irish to go green are as real as the green hills of Ireland itself.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Small Green Business GETS BIG Green Award
PRESS RELEASE
Greenbox, Local politicians and business leaders join Orchard Acre Farm in celebrating a prestigious NI Environment Award
Orchard Acre Farm is at the forefront of green business and sustainable development and today celebrates winning the RTPI/RSPB Sustainable Planning Award. The award recognises buildings and planning processes that have high environmental standards. Orchard Acre Barn more than fits the bill.
The Fermanagh-based small farm business recently added an Eco Barn to its portfolio. The Barn has a function room which is bathed in natural light, a kitchen classroom with a wood burning stove that heats the whole building, and a design that boasts high levels of insulation.
Proprietor Teresa O’Hare said, “We are totally thrilled to receive this NI Award. We are a small business with big green standards. When we developed the Barn our aim was to give our guests and visitors beautiful facilities without costing the earth! For instance, we use sunlight in the conference Room, hot water from the solar panels and rain water in the toilets.”
The Barn represents a significant capital investment of over £200,000 for the Irvinestown based farm. The project was a recipient of capital funding from the Greenbox to support the eco tourism aspects of the farm business. The total grant funded 50% of the cost of building the barn. The environmental features were designed to reduce the farm's environmental 'footprint' and help minimise running costs through energy savings.
Teresa continued, “In the world of small businesses like mine, it’s about reducing costs. For Orchard Acre Farm our objectives to reduce environmental costs also helps us to save on running costs through energy efficiency, renewable energy and insulation. The people here present today at this celebration have helped me to put a business idea into reality. For the most part, this was done without compromise to our farm business’ high environmental standards. They should be just as proud as I am."
The awards panel noted the building won because of its sensitive use of vernacular architecture, hyper local building supplies which were recycled, use of renewable energy, as well as having insulation that incorporated solar panels.
Claire Ferry, Planning Officer of the RSPB, said, “This is a wonderful inspiration to us as Ms O’Hare saw the opportunity to convert an unused building and did so in an environmentally-friendly way. It goes to show that individuals do and can make a difference. The RSPB warmly congratulates her.”
Garvan Rafferty from the RTPI was equally effusive. “The Eco Barn demonstrates that environmental planning does not have to be done on a grand scale. Single buildings also make a difference – their cumulative effect is just as powerful as a ‘prestige’ project. We were impressed with the thought that was put into the redevelopment of the building,” he said. “I am really pleased that we have won the award. It means so much to us that we are able to say that the work that we have done has been recognised by organisations such as the RTPI and RSPB. We hope that this will encourage others to do the same – it benefits the local economy and the environment!” said Ms O’Hare
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Ard Nahoo Health Farm - Article in the Observer
Well done to Noeleen and everyone at Ard Nahoo Health Farm for their recent feature in the Guardian newspaper. Click on the link below to read:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2009/feb/22/green-holiday-ireland-atlantic-coast
http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2009/feb/22/green-holiday-ireland-atlantic-coast
Monday, February 23, 2009
RTE Travel: Ecoescape Ireland
Hello Everyone,
Follow the link below to read an article published by RTE Travel on Ecoescape Ireland: The handook to Responsible Escapism:
http://www.rte.ie/travel/2009/0220/ecoescapeireland.html
Follow the link below to read an article published by RTE Travel on Ecoescape Ireland: The handook to Responsible Escapism:
http://www.rte.ie/travel/2009/0220/ecoescapeireland.html
Failte Ireland Promotional Opportunity
Failte Ireland is continually trying to find creative and innovative ways to stimulate increased business. Attached you will find details of a unique promotional opportunity with Walkers crisps that we are supporting .
In 2009 Walkers are running a 'Gary's Great Trips' campaign. The promotion will feature on over 900 million crisp packs and will be supported by a substantial marketing campaign. Very simply, consumers will be invited to collect points from their crisp packs, and redeem them on the Walkers website for special offers. In Ireland these special offers are 3 for the price of two in accommodation and separately, 2 for the price of 1 on entry to tourist attractions. There are only 100 places available for accommodation providers and just 50 places available for visitor attractions.
Other key points are below:
The Discover Ireland logo will feature on c.50m packs distributed in Ireland and the UK
The promotion will be supported by gold standard grocery point-of-sale and £4 million media spend across TV, radio, online, press and PR
95% of the UK population was exposed to the multi-media and PR campaign last year!
Participating venues will have a dedicated section on the website communicating the offer & venue location
In 2008, 600,000 people registered with the website, their average dwell time was 4.5 minutes A massive 60% of consumers opted for further correspondence!
Promotion is in market from late May - August 2009, with redemptions running until end December 2009
All information, including an application form and contact details for further information are attached. This is a great opportunity to generate business but places are limited so you need to be quick!
On completion of forms: Email back by 26th February to: natasha@thebigkick.com & hbarnett@thebigkick.com
Please also send a signed copy back to:
· Fax 01727 85797
· Posting to Harriet Barnett at Walkers Gary Great Trips, c/o The Big Kick, The Old Station House, Orient Close, London Road, St Albans, Herts, AL1 1JD
If you have any important queries please contact either Harriet Barnett on +44 1727 220351 or Natasha Abbas on +44 1727 220354. The closing date for applications is: 26th February 2009.
In 2009 Walkers are running a 'Gary's Great Trips' campaign. The promotion will feature on over 900 million crisp packs and will be supported by a substantial marketing campaign. Very simply, consumers will be invited to collect points from their crisp packs, and redeem them on the Walkers website for special offers. In Ireland these special offers are 3 for the price of two in accommodation and separately, 2 for the price of 1 on entry to tourist attractions. There are only 100 places available for accommodation providers and just 50 places available for visitor attractions.
Other key points are below:
The Discover Ireland logo will feature on c.50m packs distributed in Ireland and the UK
The promotion will be supported by gold standard grocery point-of-sale and £4 million media spend across TV, radio, online, press and PR
95% of the UK population was exposed to the multi-media and PR campaign last year!
Participating venues will have a dedicated section on the website communicating the offer & venue location
In 2008, 600,000 people registered with the website, their average dwell time was 4.5 minutes A massive 60% of consumers opted for further correspondence!
Promotion is in market from late May - August 2009, with redemptions running until end December 2009
All information, including an application form and contact details for further information are attached. This is a great opportunity to generate business but places are limited so you need to be quick!
On completion of forms: Email back by 26th February to: natasha@thebigkick.com & hbarnett@thebigkick.com
Please also send a signed copy back to:
· Fax 01727 85797
· Posting to Harriet Barnett at Walkers Gary Great Trips, c/o The Big Kick, The Old Station House, Orient Close, London Road, St Albans, Herts, AL1 1JD
If you have any important queries please contact either Harriet Barnett on +44 1727 220351 or Natasha Abbas on +44 1727 220354. The closing date for applications is: 26th February 2009.
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Request from the Irish Examiner
Dear All,
Please see email below received from Jane at the Irish Examiner:
Name: Jane Alexander
Email: jane@janealexander.org
Telephone: 01398 324314 (UK)
Message: Hello, I\'m researching a feature for the Irish Examiner on alternative ways to celebrate Valentine\'s Day (plus gifts) and wondered if there were any courses or events happening around that time - 14th February - that might fit the bill.
Best wishes
Jane Alexander
Please see email below received from Jane at the Irish Examiner:
Name: Jane Alexander
Email: jane@janealexander.org
Telephone: 01398 324314 (UK)
Message: Hello, I\'m researching a feature for the Irish Examiner on alternative ways to celebrate Valentine\'s Day (plus gifts) and wondered if there were any courses or events happening around that time - 14th February - that might fit the bill.
Best wishes
Jane Alexander
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
ResponsibleTravel.com - I Know a Great Place
This week responsibletravel.com launched IKnowAGreatPlace.com – a new online travel community with support from Michael Palin and TV Presenter Kate Humble.
IKnowAGreatPlace.com aims to become the best resource for local travel ideas in the world. No one knows your destination like you do, so it would be great if you can share your local knowledge with the community and give the best advice and tips on what your destination has to offer. We would like you to bring your knowledge to the community by adding local tips on great things to do and the best places to go, fantastic images of your destination and by answering questions about your destination in the travel forums. As someone who is passionate about local and authentic travel we hope you or your marketing team will get involved.
To put your destination on the map register here
IKnowAGreatPlace.com aims to become the best resource for local travel ideas in the world. No one knows your destination like you do, so it would be great if you can share your local knowledge with the community and give the best advice and tips on what your destination has to offer. We would like you to bring your knowledge to the community by adding local tips on great things to do and the best places to go, fantastic images of your destination and by answering questions about your destination in the travel forums. As someone who is passionate about local and authentic travel we hope you or your marketing team will get involved.
To put your destination on the map register here
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Setting up WWOOF Ireland
Hi All
Please see email below received at the Greenbox office:
SETTING UP WWOOF IRELAND! (please respond!)
With the support of WWOOF International and WWOOF UK, as well as WWOOF Independents, who have organised WWOOFers for us in Ireland since the demise of WWOOF Ireland 7 or 8 years ago, I am in the process of re-establishing WWOOF IRELAND. To that end a new website is being developed which will go 'live' in the new year and through which all WWOOF hosts in Ireland and WWOOFers to Ireland will be able to register for next year.
Although I am happy to continue running WWOOF in Ireland as an independent operator along the line of WWOOF Independents, I am contacting you in the first instance with my ideas for a consultation process for the setting up of a new WWOOF Ireland. I will be pleased to get any comments or other proposals, but hopefully in the setting up process and the meetings I am proposing here, there will be plenty of opportunity for debate and discussion to arrive at the best possible scenarios through 'on the ground' meetings and a forum for debate on the website.
Background
I have been a WWOOF host in West Cork for the last nine years and following my own wwoofing experience in New Zealand 2 years ago, and meetings with the WWOOF organisers there and in Australia, as well as the UK and WWOOF Independents, I have been working for the last year towards taking over the host list and running WWOOF Ireland as a national organisation.
WWOOF Independents exists mainly to support WWOOF hosts in new countries, but as bookings for hosts in Ireland just did not happen one year, they took on the organisation of our lists. At that time WWOOF was only beginning to be internet based and contact had previously been made purely by letter or telephone. Internet has brought its advantages and also its problems, and now, with the start of a new organisation we have the opportunity to reorganise things - if members feel this is needed – to suit what may be more specific to the needs of WWOOF hosts and WWOOFers in Ireland.
Proposal
So – these are an outline of my proposals:-
1. Start a WWOOF organisation which is transnational being inclusive of WWOOF hosts in Northern Ireland (this has already been negotiated with the WWOOF UK representative there and the Northern Ireland WWOOF hosts will be included in the list for next year)
2. Divide the organisation into regional groups, possibly to be dictated by concentration of WWOOF hosts rather than just geography as hosts are unevenly dispersed throughout the country.
3. Have a representative from each region to be the local contact point or organiser for that region.
4. Through consultation via the website and meetings, develop policies and procedures for the benefit of hosts, WWOOFers and the organisation
- suggestions include:
a) recruitment of new WWOOF hosts in areas which are not well represented through contacting possible organic concerns, environmental agencies etc.
b) recruitment of WWOOFers from young people in Ireland who would be encouraged to WWOOF in their own country - this would help reduce 'green' footprint, by not involving so much travel, and serve to educate the younger generation about food production and other ways of life in their own country as well as helping to 'heal' the often talked about urban/rural divide.
c) implement a 'feed back' system through the regional representatives or the website to provide more support for both hosts and WWOOFers
d) through regional meetings and visits to existing WWOOF hosts discuss these and any other proposals and their implementation (through this consultation decide on the best formation of the WWOOF Ireland Organisation to carry this out. eg: should we be a charity, limited by guarantee, or not for profit (or something else?)
My own view is that it would be good to establish a more personalised service for WWOOF in Ireland and it is through meetings and visits that I hope to set the scene for this and to gauge the general needs of WWOOF hosts here.
PLEASE do respond to this e mail, (sorry if it's a bit long!) even if it is just to say you have received it, as I really would like to know that I am going ahead with the support of the general WWOOF community here and not just the WWOOF organisations mentioned above. And if you have any comments or suggestions don't hesitate to send those! – then maybe I will develop a specific questionnaire to send out prior to meetings?
This is a very grass roots organisation, and I feel strongly that its operation should be defined by its members. I also feel that Carl and Craig of WWOOF Independants have been doing a great job in holding together WWOOF in Ireland in the intervening years and would like to say a big thank you to them from all of us for doing so. Looking forward to hearing from you and to your comments and suggestions
Yours truly,
Annie King
infowwoofireland@gmail.com
Please see email below received at the Greenbox office:
SETTING UP WWOOF IRELAND! (please respond!)
With the support of WWOOF International and WWOOF UK, as well as WWOOF Independents, who have organised WWOOFers for us in Ireland since the demise of WWOOF Ireland 7 or 8 years ago, I am in the process of re-establishing WWOOF IRELAND. To that end a new website is being developed which will go 'live' in the new year and through which all WWOOF hosts in Ireland and WWOOFers to Ireland will be able to register for next year.
Although I am happy to continue running WWOOF in Ireland as an independent operator along the line of WWOOF Independents, I am contacting you in the first instance with my ideas for a consultation process for the setting up of a new WWOOF Ireland. I will be pleased to get any comments or other proposals, but hopefully in the setting up process and the meetings I am proposing here, there will be plenty of opportunity for debate and discussion to arrive at the best possible scenarios through 'on the ground' meetings and a forum for debate on the website.
Background
I have been a WWOOF host in West Cork for the last nine years and following my own wwoofing experience in New Zealand 2 years ago, and meetings with the WWOOF organisers there and in Australia, as well as the UK and WWOOF Independents, I have been working for the last year towards taking over the host list and running WWOOF Ireland as a national organisation.
WWOOF Independents exists mainly to support WWOOF hosts in new countries, but as bookings for hosts in Ireland just did not happen one year, they took on the organisation of our lists. At that time WWOOF was only beginning to be internet based and contact had previously been made purely by letter or telephone. Internet has brought its advantages and also its problems, and now, with the start of a new organisation we have the opportunity to reorganise things - if members feel this is needed – to suit what may be more specific to the needs of WWOOF hosts and WWOOFers in Ireland.
Proposal
So – these are an outline of my proposals:-
1. Start a WWOOF organisation which is transnational being inclusive of WWOOF hosts in Northern Ireland (this has already been negotiated with the WWOOF UK representative there and the Northern Ireland WWOOF hosts will be included in the list for next year)
2. Divide the organisation into regional groups, possibly to be dictated by concentration of WWOOF hosts rather than just geography as hosts are unevenly dispersed throughout the country.
3. Have a representative from each region to be the local contact point or organiser for that region.
4. Through consultation via the website and meetings, develop policies and procedures for the benefit of hosts, WWOOFers and the organisation
- suggestions include:
a) recruitment of new WWOOF hosts in areas which are not well represented through contacting possible organic concerns, environmental agencies etc.
b) recruitment of WWOOFers from young people in Ireland who would be encouraged to WWOOF in their own country - this would help reduce 'green' footprint, by not involving so much travel, and serve to educate the younger generation about food production and other ways of life in their own country as well as helping to 'heal' the often talked about urban/rural divide.
c) implement a 'feed back' system through the regional representatives or the website to provide more support for both hosts and WWOOFers
d) through regional meetings and visits to existing WWOOF hosts discuss these and any other proposals and their implementation (through this consultation decide on the best formation of the WWOOF Ireland Organisation to carry this out. eg: should we be a charity, limited by guarantee, or not for profit (or something else?)
My own view is that it would be good to establish a more personalised service for WWOOF in Ireland and it is through meetings and visits that I hope to set the scene for this and to gauge the general needs of WWOOF hosts here.
PLEASE do respond to this e mail, (sorry if it's a bit long!) even if it is just to say you have received it, as I really would like to know that I am going ahead with the support of the general WWOOF community here and not just the WWOOF organisations mentioned above. And if you have any comments or suggestions don't hesitate to send those! – then maybe I will develop a specific questionnaire to send out prior to meetings?
This is a very grass roots organisation, and I feel strongly that its operation should be defined by its members. I also feel that Carl and Craig of WWOOF Independants have been doing a great job in holding together WWOOF in Ireland in the intervening years and would like to say a big thank you to them from all of us for doing so. Looking forward to hearing from you and to your comments and suggestions
Yours truly,
Annie King
infowwoofireland@gmail.com
Monday, December 1, 2008
Bear Essentials - Christmas Offer
Create your own Gingerbread House at Bear Essentials in Bawnboy Co.Cavan
"Like to nibble on your own creation this Christmas or just looking to make a special present for someone?"
A workshop for adult & children on Sat.13th of December at 2pm.
To enrol please contact Anke on 049 9523461 or email: info@bearessentials.ie
Our large home-made Gingerbread Houses can be ordered also.
Last order taken 27th of November. Houses are ready for collection from 15th of December at Bear Essentials.
"Like to nibble on your own creation this Christmas or just looking to make a special present for someone?"
A workshop for adult & children on Sat.13th of December at 2pm.
To enrol please contact Anke on 049 9523461 or email: info@bearessentials.ie
Our large home-made Gingerbread Houses can be ordered also.
Last order taken 27th of November. Houses are ready for collection from 15th of December at Bear Essentials.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Fáilte Ireland North West - Web Skills Workshop
Writing for the Web
1/2 Day Workshop
Date: Tuesday, 18th November 2008
Venue: The Clarion Hotel, Sligo
Time: 9.30am - 1.30pm
Cost: €50.00
Who Should Attend?:
These workshops are aimed at operators of tourism SME's who have participated in the Web-Check and/or web build stages of the e-business development support initiative. Also aimed at operators of tourism enterprises who wish to further enhance their e-capability and develop their own skills in self-managing their website.
Course Objectives: By the end of this workshop, delegates will be able to:
- Identity the importance of careful planning in preparation of content for effective website presentation.
- Examine the essential elements of crafting suitable text in formats appropriate for the web.
- Acknowledge the necessity for maintaining updates and keeping content current and relevant.
- Understand the importance of keeping abreast of and ensuring compliance with legal aspects associated with the display of web content.
Further details
For further details of the workshop and to book contact Alex Keys at Fáilte Ireland's e-business support team on 01 8847879 or email webdevproject.registration@failteireland.ie
Friday, October 24, 2008
Bear Essentials quoted as Top Shop in Irish Independent
On Thursday, 23rd October 2008, Greenbox Nework member Bear Essential was named as Top Shop for Good Buys in the Irish Independent.
Click here to go to Bear Essentials website and read article:
http://www.bearessentials.ie/uploads/IrishIndependentTopBuy.pdf
Well done Anke!
Click here to go to Bear Essentials website and read article:
http://www.bearessentials.ie/uploads/IrishIndependentTopBuy.pdf
Well done Anke!
Monday, October 20, 2008
Georgina Campbell's Award Winners 2009 - Features Greenbox Members
On October 16th 2008, Georgina Campbell’s Ireland…… ‘the Guide’ 2009, was launched together with the announcement of the winners of the 11th Annual ‘Awards for Excellence’ at a lunch held in Bord Bia's (the Irish Food Board) head office in Dublin 2.
Click here to read more about guide and/or to buy it. Firmly established as Ireland's longest running independent hospitality Awards, these accolades are much sought after within the industry and can be seen adorning many of the top establishments around the country.
Congratulations to those from the Greenbox region who recieves awards under the following headings:
NATURAL FOOD AWARD 2009 sponsored by Fáilte Ireland: Rathmullan House, Rathmullan, Co Donegal
A pleasing dining room overlooking the lovely gardens and Lough Swilly provides a fine setting for upbeat traditional cooking at the Wheeler family’s Rathmullan House. Menus are based on the very best of local and artisan foods – and, working closely with organic gardener, Dennis Hawke, chef Ian Orr creates dishes around fresh produce from their own restored walled garden... click for more
WATERWAYS HOSPITALITY AWARD 2009 sponsored by Waterways Ireland: The Oarsman, Carrick-on-Shannon, Co Leitrim.
This new award introduces a topic very close to the Guide’s heart - we have published a little guide to hospitality along Ireland’s inland waterways for almost a decade, and it has had the support of Waterways Ireland since 2004. Although it is aimed mainly at people who are enjoying this fantastic amenity by boat, many of the recommended restaurants and hostelries are also included in our main Ireland guide, and this award should help to introduce a lot of new visitors to a side of Ireland that is still unknown to many... click for more
GUESTHOUSE OF THE YEAR 2009: Ard na Breátha, Donegal Town
Although in what has become a mainly residential area on the edge of a thriving town, Albert and Theresa Morrow’s welcoming guesthouse is tucked into a quiet corner of a busy working farm and is indeed, as they say on their brochure, ‘a place worth finding’... click for more
Click here to read more about guide and/or to buy it. Firmly established as Ireland's longest running independent hospitality Awards, these accolades are much sought after within the industry and can be seen adorning many of the top establishments around the country.
Congratulations to those from the Greenbox region who recieves awards under the following headings:
NATURAL FOOD AWARD 2009 sponsored by Fáilte Ireland: Rathmullan House, Rathmullan, Co Donegal
A pleasing dining room overlooking the lovely gardens and Lough Swilly provides a fine setting for upbeat traditional cooking at the Wheeler family’s Rathmullan House. Menus are based on the very best of local and artisan foods – and, working closely with organic gardener, Dennis Hawke, chef Ian Orr creates dishes around fresh produce from their own restored walled garden... click for more
WATERWAYS HOSPITALITY AWARD 2009 sponsored by Waterways Ireland: The Oarsman, Carrick-on-Shannon, Co Leitrim.
This new award introduces a topic very close to the Guide’s heart - we have published a little guide to hospitality along Ireland’s inland waterways for almost a decade, and it has had the support of Waterways Ireland since 2004. Although it is aimed mainly at people who are enjoying this fantastic amenity by boat, many of the recommended restaurants and hostelries are also included in our main Ireland guide, and this award should help to introduce a lot of new visitors to a side of Ireland that is still unknown to many... click for more
GUESTHOUSE OF THE YEAR 2009: Ard na Breátha, Donegal Town
Although in what has become a mainly residential area on the edge of a thriving town, Albert and Theresa Morrow’s welcoming guesthouse is tucked into a quiet corner of a busy working farm and is indeed, as they say on their brochure, ‘a place worth finding’... click for more
RTE Television - At Your Service
See link below to the RTE Television programme " At Your Service" featuring Ian Wasson who recently appeared as an environmental expert promoting the EU Flower:
http://www.rte.ie/tv/atyourservice/prog7.html
http://www.rte.ie/tv/atyourservice/prog7.html
Thursday, October 16, 2008
The Good, The Bad and the Ugly of Sustainable Search Word Trends
Two more links that are worth checking out
Link 1: Google Adwords Article - The Good, The Bad and the Ugly of Sustainable Search Words
http://unicyclecreative.com/wordpress/archives/216#more-216
Link 2: Green Meetings
http://www.thegreenmeeting.com/2008/10/tripadvisor-survey-finds-jump-in-green.html
Link 1: Google Adwords Article - The Good, The Bad and the Ugly of Sustainable Search Words
http://unicyclecreative.com/wordpress/archives/216#more-216
Link 2: Green Meetings
http://www.thegreenmeeting.com/2008/10/tripadvisor-survey-finds-jump-in-green.html
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Sustainable Travel International
Sustainable Travel International has written a small piece about Greenbox's accreditation system. It's very complimentary, here is the extract:
Ireland’s Ecolabel Standard AssessedSustainable Travel International recently assessed Ireland’s Greenbox Ecolabel Standard and associated training course for community business owner participants. We met with Greenbox representatives, and assessed the course and participant knowledge in order to verify the strength of the program. We are happy to announce that thanks to Greenbox, the Northwest border region between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland (UK) has one of the strongest regional ecotourism development efforts we have seen. Greenbox was founded upon a regional peace-through-tourism initiative geared toward educating communities about how to develop sustainable ecotourism practices. Through its membership base, Greenbox also offers travelers hundreds of short breaks, green holidays and eco tours. You can now travel to Ireland, and find quality tourism products and services that promote environmental, community and cultural heritage by visiting the Greenbox web site at http://www.greenbox.ie/.
To see the full e-newsletter, please click on the link below:
http://sustainabletravelinternational.qm4.net/members/ViewMailing.aspx?MailingID=116094
Ireland’s Ecolabel Standard AssessedSustainable Travel International recently assessed Ireland’s Greenbox Ecolabel Standard and associated training course for community business owner participants. We met with Greenbox representatives, and assessed the course and participant knowledge in order to verify the strength of the program. We are happy to announce that thanks to Greenbox, the Northwest border region between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland (UK) has one of the strongest regional ecotourism development efforts we have seen. Greenbox was founded upon a regional peace-through-tourism initiative geared toward educating communities about how to develop sustainable ecotourism practices. Through its membership base, Greenbox also offers travelers hundreds of short breaks, green holidays and eco tours. You can now travel to Ireland, and find quality tourism products and services that promote environmental, community and cultural heritage by visiting the Greenbox web site at http://www.greenbox.ie/.
To see the full e-newsletter, please click on the link below:
http://sustainabletravelinternational.qm4.net/members/ViewMailing.aspx?MailingID=116094
Change.ie Website
Hi Everyone
Change.ie have posted information about the Greenbox Ecolabel and the EU Flower.
Check it out here:
http://www.change.ie/en/Personal-Actions-II/Transport/Holidays/Environmental-standards/
Thanks! Karen.
Change.ie have posted information about the Greenbox Ecolabel and the EU Flower.
Check it out here:
http://www.change.ie/en/Personal-Actions-II/Transport/Holidays/Environmental-standards/
Thanks! Karen.
Friday, August 29, 2008
BBC Northern Exposure votes Greenbox Members as simply the best
PRESS RELEASE
Friday the 15th August, BBC programme Northern Exposure visited Fermanagh. Orchard Acre Farm was voted one of the best 3 destinations in Fermanagh. The Eco Barn is a Flag ship project of the Greenbox. Teresa the proprietor is an active Greenbox member and Winner of the Inspirational Award 2007.
Lawrence rolled up those his famous fancy cuffs and got stuck into
a Beauty From Nature course with his lovely wife Jackie. Guided by expert tutor Pauline Corrigan from Florencecourt; a regular tutor on Orchard Acre Farm.
The programme turned the spotlight onto some of Northern Ireland’s best and most unusual places to visit. It’s no surprise that the brand new Eco Barn was selected from the many nominees as it is the only Eco facility of its kind in Northern Ireland designed by local award winning architects Keys and Monaghan.
Jackie remarked on the beautiful and quiet countryside around Orchard Acre. She spent ages in the garden chatting about its extensive range of plants and herbs with Teresa O’Hare owner of the Farm. A lover of gardening herself Jackie went home armed with new ideas and recipes on how to utilise natural ingredients herself at home in England.
Its no secret that the Llewelyn-Bowens love their comfort and they made great use of the modern and ecological facilities of the Barn. They took home information on other courses at the barn including cookery, willow craft and gardening and they promised to keep an watchful eye for more recipes on the Orchard Acre Farm web site.
http://www.orchardacrefarm.com/
Friday the 15th August, BBC programme Northern Exposure visited Fermanagh. Orchard Acre Farm was voted one of the best 3 destinations in Fermanagh. The Eco Barn is a Flag ship project of the Greenbox. Teresa the proprietor is an active Greenbox member and Winner of the Inspirational Award 2007.
Lawrence rolled up those his famous fancy cuffs and got stuck into
a Beauty From Nature course with his lovely wife Jackie. Guided by expert tutor Pauline Corrigan from Florencecourt; a regular tutor on Orchard Acre Farm.
The programme turned the spotlight onto some of Northern Ireland’s best and most unusual places to visit. It’s no surprise that the brand new Eco Barn was selected from the many nominees as it is the only Eco facility of its kind in Northern Ireland designed by local award winning architects Keys and Monaghan.
Jackie remarked on the beautiful and quiet countryside around Orchard Acre. She spent ages in the garden chatting about its extensive range of plants and herbs with Teresa O’Hare owner of the Farm. A lover of gardening herself Jackie went home armed with new ideas and recipes on how to utilise natural ingredients herself at home in England.
Its no secret that the Llewelyn-Bowens love their comfort and they made great use of the modern and ecological facilities of the Barn. They took home information on other courses at the barn including cookery, willow craft and gardening and they promised to keep an watchful eye for more recipes on the Orchard Acre Farm web site.
http://www.orchardacrefarm.com/
Monday, August 18, 2008
RTE Radio 1 - Interview with Greebox
Listen to an interview with Mary Mulvey and Molly Reynolds on the Greenbox and ecotourism which was broadcast on Friday, 15th August 2008
http://www.rte.ie/radio1/morningireland/
http://www.rte.ie/radio1/morningireland/
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)