Cavan Town is Cavan County Council’s Decarbonising Zone. This recognises its role as a hub for commerce, services, and education, and its suitability as a test bed for climate action adaptable to other towns across the county.
Current Footprint for the Cavan Town DZ is approximately 5.85 tCO₂e per person per year
County Cavan Climate Action Plan 2024-29“To support Cavan Town as a test bed for a range of climate mitigation, adaptation and biodiversity measures, contributing to wider local and national climate action objectives.”
Cavan’s DZ vision supports the town’s transition to a resilient, low-carbon future and enables place-based climate action that can be adapted to other towns and communities: “to support Cavan Town as a test bed for a range of climate mitigation, adaptation and biodiversity measures, contributing to wider local and national climate action objectives.”
Through the DZ, the Council aims to promote energy efficiency, reduce emissions in buildings and transport, support renewable energy uptake, enhance climate resilience, and strengthen biodiversity, working closely with communities, businesses, and national partners.
Sustainability Practices in the Cavan Town DZ
Cavan Town Air Quality
An ambient Air Quality Monitoring Station is located at Cavan Courthouse on Farnham Street, providing real-time data accessible on the EPA website and through Cavan County Council’s site. Throughout 2024, data was reviewed monthly to track trends and ensure accuracy, with reports shared internally and the station inspected regularly by Environment Section staff.
Air quality updates were published monthly in local media and on social platforms. The 2023 Air Quality Report was released and shared online, and one public query was addressed using station data. An article on air quality also appeared in local media.
Environment Section staff engaged in collaboration and awareness initiatives, attending all Local Authority Air Implementation Group meetings, a DECC workshop on low-cost monitoring, and hosting an EPA demonstration during the Cavan Monaghan Science Festival. They explored Peace Plus funding opportunities, implemented a Clean Air campaign with Monaghan County Council, and worked with the Department to counter misinformation on air regulations.
As part of the Science Festival, staff provided advice on air and water quality at public events and delivered workshops to two schools, promoting awareness and education on environmental protection.
Cavan Town Flood Relief Scheme
The Cavan Town Flood Relief Scheme, led by Cavan County Council in partnership with the OPW, aims to reduce flood risk through a solution that is technically effective, environmentally sustainable, and socially responsible. Ayesa is the appointed design consultant. Key progress includes finalising ground investigation plans for boreholes and trial pits, completing archaeological and environmental screenings, and issuing tenders, with works scheduled for late 2025. Hydrology and hydraulic modelling reports have been prepared, incorporating climate change allowances, and invasive species treatments have significantly reduced occurrences. Surveys of wildlife habitats are complete, and feasibility studies for nature-based solutions such as riparian woodlands and wetlands have been carried out. Stakeholder engagement remains central, with workshops and consultations ongoing. Next steps include completing investigations, finalising hydraulic models, progressing optioneering, and continuing environmental assessments and invasive species treatments.
Eco Driving Training
36 staff members from Cavan County Council completed Eco Driver Training to promote fuel-efficient and environmentally responsible driving. The training highlighted the benefits of eco-driving, including reduced emissions, lower fuel costs, and improved vehicle performance.
Participants learned how driving behaviour and vehicle dynamics—such as weight, aerodynamics, and tyre pressure—affect fuel efficiency. Practical techniques were emphasised, including smooth acceleration, maintaining steady speeds, avoiding idling, and anticipating traffic flow. Proper gear use and regular vehicle maintenance, such as tyre inflation and oil changes, were also covered.
The course introduced technological aids like fuel economy displays, start-stop systems, and telematics, alongside tips for route planning and avoiding congestion. Safety was integrated throughout, showing how eco-driving supports defensive driving and reduces accident risk.
Drivers were encouraged to adopt new habits, set fuel-saving goals, and understand the environmental impact of emissions. The session concluded with an overview of government incentives and future trends in sustainable transport, including electric vehicles. This initiative reflects Cavan County Council’s commitment to cost savings, safety, and climate action.
CLIMATE ACTION WEEK 2025
Cavan County Council hosted a diverse programme of events during Climate Action Week 2025 (13th–18th October) to promote sustainability, climate awareness, and community engagement across the county. The week of events was highly successful with engagement of more that 600 individuals.
- Local Food Drama – “What Are We Eatin’ Anyways” in collaboration with Cottage Market Cavan and Cavan Arts Office.
- Community Climate Action Fund Online Information Sessions, providing guidance on funding opportunities for local climate projects.
Decarbonising Cavan Conference at Hotel Kilmore, featuring funding options, retrofit solutions, and success stories from local industry leaders.
Practical Sustainability Workshops, including Clothing Repair with Wren & Mabel, Seed Saving with Big Sky Flowers, and No-Dig Gardening for next season.
Nature and Biodiversity Activities, such as a Walk and Talk on Killyconny Bog and a county-wide litter pick engaging communities in environmental action.
Educational and Family Events, including Story Time for Kids and a Climate Talk from the Green Schools Programme.
These events combined practical skills, expert insights, and community participation to support Cavan’s climate action goals and encourage sustainable living.
Social Housing Retrofit
Cavan County Council’s Housing Department is advancing its retrofit programme to improve energy efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions across social housing. In 2024, €1.39 million in Energy Retrofit Grant funding supported upgrades to 41 homes across the county, including properties in Cavan, Belturbet, Cootehill, Virginia, Bailieborough, Kingscourt, and Swanlinbar. A deep retrofit at No. 6 Drumnaveil, Cootehill improved its BER from D2 to B1 through measures such as installing a heat pump, external insulation, attic insulation, LED lighting, and a ventilation system. These works delivered energy savings of 174.81 kWh/m²/year and reduced carbon emissions by 51.82 kg CO₂/m²/year. The Council remains committed to scaling up retrofits under the revised programme to achieve substantial energy performance improvements and meet climate targets.
Before Retrofit
During Retrofit
Retrofit Complete
Vacant Homes Programme
Vacancy in housing stock is a significant challenge in County Cavan, impacting housing supply and community vibrancy. Addressing vacancy is a key element of sustainable housing policy under Housing for All – Pathway 4 and the Vacant Homes Action Plan 2023–2028.
Census 2022 recorded 4,023 vacant residential units in Cavan, while GeoDirectory Q3 2025 reported 2,409, with an average vacancy rate of 4.52% across towns. The highest rates were in Redhills (14.7%), Arva (14.5%), and Swanlinbar (14.3%). To address this, the Vacant Homes Action Plan (2023–2028) focuses on making better use of existing housing stock. A key measure is the Croí Cónaithe Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant, offering €50,000 for refurbishment and an additional €20,000 for derelict properties vacant for over two years and built before 2007. Eligible works include structural repairs, plumbing, heating, and windows, with fossil fuel boilers excluded from funding after December 2024.
Progress has been significant, with over 500 applications received, 400 approved, and more than 160 properties refurbished. Funding of €22 million has been approved, with €5 million paid out. Social housing projects include converting the Ducking Stool pub in Belturbet into three homes, acquiring six vacant houses at Widows Row, and the compulsory purchase of five derelict dwellings in Ballyjamesduff. These efforts reduce the need for new builds, support climate goals, and help revitalise towns and villages.
Find out more about the Cavan Vacant Homes grants at these links
https://www.cavancoco.ie/services/housing/croi-conaithe/
https://www.gov.ie/en/service/f8f1b-vacant-property-refurbishment-grant/
Procurement Of Refurbished Laptops
Cavan County Council is committed to sustainability by buying refurbished IT equipment. In 2024, 40% of laptops procured were refurbished, reducing environmental impact and conserving resources. Using the Office of Government Procurement framework streamlined the process and ensured reliable, high-quality devices.
This initiative delivers clear benefits: lower electronic waste, extended technology lifespan, and significant cost savings compared to new models. Remanufactured laptops meet factory standards for performance and durability, offering a practical and sustainable solution. By adopting refurbished technology, the Council supports its environmental goals while providing cost-effective computing for staff.
Green Enterprise
Cavan’s Local Enterprise Office, in collaboration with the Climate Action Unit, is helping businesses improve resource efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and explore new sustainability opportunities. On 16 October 2024, a breakfast energy meeting was held to promote these supports. Key initiatives include the Green for Business programme, which connects SMEs with consultants to identify practical, low-cost actions; the Energy Efficiency Grant, offering up to €10,000 to replace inefficient equipment; and the Climate Toolkit 4 Business, an online tool to calculate carbon footprints and plan for net zero.
In 2024, four Green for Business programmes were approved and three Energy Efficiency Grants awarded, totalling €25,000. Awareness was raised through an Information Day at Cavan Library and a Green Business Morning during Climate Action Week. The Climate Action Unit will continue working with LEO to monitor the impact of these supports, focusing on energy savings and emissions reductions among businesses in the Decarbonising Zone.
Waste Awareness
In July 2024, Cavan County Council offered a 50% reduction on bulky waste disposal for three weeks across its Civic Amenity sites, supported by a targeted awareness campaign on social media and in local press. The initiative aimed to encourage responsible disposal and reduce illegal dumping, in line with the Litter Management Plan objective to promote circular economy practices. The project cost €43,063.14 and delivered significant results, diverting 85.96 tonnes of bulky waste and 900 mattresses from landfill. It reduced illegal dumping and associated enforcement costs, increased recycling, and raised public awareness of proper waste management. By promoting recycling and recovery, the initiative supported climate goals and demonstrated the Council’s commitment to sustainability.
Re-Love Fashion
In 2024, Cavan County Council participated for the first time in the national Relove Fashion competition, a sustainable fashion initiative aimed at reducing the environmental impact of fast fashion through creative reuse and upcycling. The project encouraged young people to engage with climate action and circular economy principles while showcasing their innovation at a national level. Fifteen secondary school students from across Cavan registered, representing schools including Bailieborough Community School, St Bricins College, Royal School, Virginia College, Colaiste Dun an RÍ, St Aidans Comprehensive School, Breifne College, and Loreto College. Two students, from Bailieborough Community School and Colaiste Dun an RÍ, were selected as finalists and represented Cavan at the national final in April 2025 at the Rediscovery Centre in Dublin, impressing judges with original designs created from pre-loved materials. The initiative raised awareness of the environmental cost of fast fashion, promoted creative engagement with sustainability, and strengthened partnerships between schools, local authorities, and national programmes.
Public Lighting ‘PLEEP’ Scheme
Cavan County Council is converting public lighting to LED luminaires to improve energy efficiency, cut costs, and reduce emissions. Over 80% of the county’s 7,300 streetlights have already been upgraded, a major step given that public lighting accounts for more than 30% of the Council’s energy use and 41% of its greenhouse gas emissions. Switching to LEDs halves energy consumption, lowers CO₂ emissions, and saves money, while improving light quality and reducing light pollution. Although part of the North West Region under the Public Lighting Energy Efficiency Project, the region opted out of the national scheme due to advanced progress in retrofitting. Further savings could be achieved through “dimming and trimming,” which reduces brightness outside peak hours and limits light spill. The predicted emissions savings of 1.28 ktCO₂eq will significantly contribute to the 51% reduction target in the Cavan County Climate Action Plan for 2030, alongside benefits such as lower maintenance costs and enhanced public safety.
EV Charging Infrastructure
Cavan town has an expanding network of EV charging points listed on PlugShare, with further installations planned under the county’s Public EV Charging Strategy. The town also offers shared vehicle options through GoCar, supporting sustainable transport choices. In addition, Cavan County Council is developing a fleet decarbonisation business case to identify the infrastructure needed to transition its vehicles away from fossil fuels, ensuring long-term reductions in emissions and alignment with climate goals.
Community Gardens
Fairgreen Community Garden in Cavan Town, established in 2011 under the Public Participation Network, has grown into an inclusive space where people from diverse backgrounds learn sustainable practices and grow organic produce. Supported by funding from the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications through the Community Climate Action Programme, the garden promotes education, cultural exchange, and environmental awareness. It offers workshops such as No-Dig Gardening and Home Composting, hosts an annual Autumn Harvest Festival, and provides training through CMETB, with employment opportunities supported by TÚS and Community Employment schemes. Sustainability upgrades include a 4.5 kW solar PV system, rainwater harvesting, and a fruit orchard to enhance biodiversity. Facilities include raised beds, polytunnels, classrooms, a community kitchen, and play areas, while partnerships span schools, migrant and women’s networks, and local organisations. Fairgreen continues to serve as a hub for climate action and community engagement, fostering a low-carbon, sustainable future.
Tidy Towns
Cavan Town has been named Tidiest Town in County Cavan in the SuperValu TidyTowns Awards 2025, also earning a Gold Medal and the Pollinator Award for its environmental and community initiatives. Judges praised the town’s committee, volunteers, and project partners, noting the positive first impression at key entrances and excellent litter control.
The awards ceremony took place at Croke Park, Dublin, on 24 October 2025, attended by 600 volunteers and thousands online. This year’s competition saw a record-breaking 929 entries, the highest since the awards began in 1958, reflecting strong community commitment to sustainability.
Cavan County Library Service – Climate Action & Community Engagement (2024)
Cavan County Library Service supports the Climate Action Plan by providing accurate information, hosting educational programmes, and delivering sustainability-focused events in collaboration with departments such as Environment, Climate Action, and Heritage. In 2024, the Library co-organised the Cavan Monaghan Science Festival under the theme “Regeneration,” shifting from a schools-focused STEM model to a community-centred approach that attracted a new adult audience. Over 20 events were held across the county, including cosmetic-making workshops, expert talks by Dr. Sabina Brennan and Catherina McKiernan, and educational trips to Ballyhaise Agricultural College and Galetech Windfarm. The festival engaged community groups, older people’s networks, local businesses, and third-level institutions, fostering strong partnerships and repeat attendance. Through innovative programming and collaboration, the Library has transformed its role in climate action and science engagement, creating inclusive events that raise environmental awareness and strengthen community participation.
District Heating
Cavan County Council are currently in the process of completing a district heating feasibility for Cavan Town. The study is currently aiming to identify the most promising locations for district heating in the town and hopes to evolve to freeze the design early in 2026. The preliminary concept considers routing constraints and integration with future housing developments and master plans. Key decisions are required on which options to develop, tariff structures for social housing and council buildings, and whether to allow private sector participation. The council is also asked to consider zoning flexibility for energy centre sites and provide cost data for comparison with Pathfinder projects.
Active Travel Cavan Town
Active Travel means using your own energy to travel with purpose, typically for commuting rather than leisure. It primarily includes walking and cycling, along with smaller modes like non-motorised scooters and rollerblades. Active Travel improves public health by encouraging physical activity and reducing risks of chronic diseases, while also being environmentally friendly by cutting carbon emissions and traffic congestion. It enhances connectivity between communities, schools, workplaces, and amenities, and supports safe routes to school, promoting independence and safety for children.
Get Involved
If you would like to help support and be a part of DZ initiatives in Cavan Town please contact:📧 climateaction@cavancoco.ie
Visit our library of community stories
Search Community Stories By Map
