A giant lobster reckoned to be in its 80s is to be pensioned off to Lahinch Seaworld and Leisure Centre after evading the clutches of fishermen off the Cliffs of Moher since the 1920s. Before the industrial revolution , human societies needed to be self-sustaining. Now that western civilisation has moved beyond that, often with disastrous consequences, some people believe we should go back to this ideal. Miranda Fettes explores the feasibility of an Irish eco-village. Nature's orchestra is at its fullthroated, scintillating best on clear spring mornings.
Most people are asleep or going about their business, however, and miss the magic.
A collection of rare plants has being saved from extinction by Teagasc's Kinsealy research centre in Co Dublin. Some of the plants should soon be available to nurseries all over the State. Frank McDonald, Environment Editor, looks at golf courseitis, varicose road building and other Celtic Tiger side-effects. You're very welcome to the Island Ireland directory for Irish environment. The following hand-picked links will take you to resources on Irish animals, plants, weather, outdoor activities, environmental concerns, useful organisations and more.