Plan to use seagrass in Clew Bay to capture carbon
SEAGRASS in Clew Bay is being looked at as an option to develop a carbon sink.
Capturing carbon up to 35 times faster than tropical rainforests, its use is an ambition of the group behind the Westport decarbonisation zone.
Local councillors received a presentation on the group's future plans, which include hemp farming, a community-owned energy scheme and biodiversity masterplan.
They're also working with the local hotels to give their old furniture a new lease of life.
The Westport 2030 Vision has three strands - environmental, social and economic.
A short-term plan is to develop carbon sinks in the area, and seagrass is seen as a great option.
The plant is in decline but the group want to carry out a feasibility study to see how they can protect the seagrass that is there and expand it.
It would be the first such project of its kind in Ireland, and it would be a boost for fisheries and help Ireland meet its carbon targets.
The seagrass grows naturally in Clew Bay, between Pidgeon Point and Dornish Island, beneath the water. What is there requires some 'help' and a report is due to be done in 2022.
However, the decarbonisation group don't feel this report will be in-depth enough with regards its condition and if it's doing any good for the environment and the species it supports at sea.
They would like to see divers in the water and then they could expand on what is needed.
In other short-term projects, a tree planting scheme at two local housing estates - Harbour View and Cedar Park - is underway to also capture carbon and promote biodoversity, and there is potential for a community hemp farm, which is nearly twice as efficient as trees at capturing carbon. The hemp also has other economic uses, such as CBD oil, for insulation and bioplastics.
Mid-term, the group are working on an energy masterplan, which includes retrofits and an audit of community buildings. A community-owned energy scheme is also proposed.
Active travel is a key pillar, with 15 Minute Westport examining walk and cycle routes.
On the economic front, they want to promote businesses. Working with the hotels, when they are throwing out furniture they are looking to get value from it, through repair and selling it on.
Westport Tidy Towns chairperson Rhona Chambers said local environmental voluntary groups have held meetings so they can work together to move projects forward.
She highlighted obstacles groups faced, such as insurance, health and safety statements, risk assessments, having bank accounts, accessing grants, and said there is a need for a full-time admin person to look after this work for the groups.
Councillor Sean Carey said the seagrass project is one that could be expanded and deserved every assistance.