Project Summary

Funded by the EU Just Transition Fund, the Peatlands for Prosperity project is run by Green Restoration Ireland Cooperative Society Ltd. This project is focused on supporting farmers with peatland areas by providing practical training, tailored farm services, and innovative ways to generate income — particularly through raising the water table and adopting climate-friendly practices. This project is showcasing suitable crops produced from paludiculture (wetter agriculture) and carbon income options to peatland farmers for their agricultural peatlands and ‘cutover’ land.

Overall Objective:

Through this project, Green Restoration Ireland has established Ireland’s first on-farm paludiculture trials, pioneering the cultivation of crops suited to wetter conditions. These include grasses, blueberries, herbs, vegetables, and even commercial timber species. By helping farmers transition to these new systems, Green Restoration Ireland is equipping them with the skills and support needed to manage their land more sustainably while opening the door to new income streams.

The project is also working on mechanisms to reward farmers for ecosystem services – like rewetting peatlands and enhancing carbon storage – ensuring that they are financially rewarded for the environmental benefits they provide.

Funding Programme:

EU Just Transition Fund

Project Partner(s):

Green Restoration Ireland Cooperative Society Ltd.

Project details:

Delivery Period:	Project Funding Amount:
1 July 2024 to 31 March 2026	€299,054.46

For more information on project:

Visit the project website at https://greenrestorationireland.coop/

Contact project at info@greenrestorationirelandcoop.ie

Related news and media:

• Read this news article from the launch event of this project – ‘Silver Bullet’ Solution Offers New Economic Opportunities for Peatland Farmers
• Read featured news by EuroNews about the project –  Making peatlands a green economy in Ireland’s Midlands
• and Ireland’s Magic Word: How ‘Paludiculture’ is Transforming Peatlands and Farmers’ Futures
• Read featured news from EUinmyRegion- Ireland: farming with water to restore peatlands and support rural livelihoods