Safeguarding Kilkenny’s Living Heritage in a Changing Climate
Creative Kilkenny is proud to support a groundbreaking research initiative that explores the impact of climate change on the intangible cultural heritage of County Kilkenny. In partnership with the School of Geography, UCD, this project will document and safeguard the living traditions, customs, and practices that define Kilkenny’s cultural identity—from snapnet fishing and turf-cutting to hurling and boat-making.
As climate change alters landscapes and livelihoods, many of these practices face unprecedented challenges. This project will develop a methodology to identify and assess traditions at risk, engage directly with communities such as farmers, fishermen, and turf cutters, and create a database to record and preserve their knowledge and experiences.
By capturing these stories and practices, the project not only raises awareness of climate change as a present-day reality but also celebrates the resilience and creativity of local communities. It offers a model for other counties to follow, contributing to a sustainable cultural ecosystem and ensuring that Ireland’s intangible heritage continues to thrive for future generations.
This initiative is a key action of the Kilkenny County Climate Action Plan 2024–2029 and aligns with the Kilkenny Culture and Creativity Strategy 2023–2028, which seeks to connect people meaningfully with environmental change through cultural engagement.
Athrú research
