27-05-2025
Model Thalia Heffernan backs campaign to protect Ireland's landscapes
Model Thalia Heffernan shows off her rescued pooches Leonard and Charlie in a new campaign to protect the outdoors.
'Love This Place' is a new campaign by Leave No Trace Ireland, which is calling on the public to come together to protect Ireland's rich natural landscapes.
With more people than ever seeking connection with nature - through hiking, swimming, dog-walking and exploring - this year's 'Love This Place' campaign reinforces the simple message: "If you love this place, leave no trace."
Maura Kiely, CEO of Leave No Trace Ireland, said: "Our message is clear. We all have a part to play in preserving the places and wildlife we love.
"This campaign invites everyone enjoying the outdoors this summer, from seasoned hikers to dog owners, to take simple, mindful steps to protect our natural landscapes."
A survey by the European Commission's Joint Research Centre revealed that Ireland's great outdoors has seen a sharp rise in popularity in recent years, with over 98 per cent of residents valuing time spent in nature.
However, increased footfall has also brought challenges: trail erosion, littering, dog fouling, wildlife disturbance, and an increase in wildfires, 96 per cent of which are linked to human activity.
The campaign aims to roll out a digital storytelling campaign featuring voices, including farmers and dog walkers, host on-the-ground events and clean-up days coordinated with local authorities and environmental groups and create education initiatives and social media toolkits for influencers, schools and tourism partners.
Ms Kiely added: "Our land is not just scenic - it's living. It feeds us, shelters biodiversity, and connects our communities.
"Respecting it is not about restriction, but about care and responsibility. We're so grateful to the public and our partners for supporting 'Love This Place' - we ask everyone to take action and join the movement because protecting the places we love means we can continue to enjoy them in the future."
Speaking about the launch Dara Calleary TD Minister for Social Protection and Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht said: "Ireland's natural heritage is one of our greatest assets - environmentally, culturally, and economically.
"The 'Love This Place' campaign reminds us that with this privilege comes responsibility.
"By embracing the principles of Leave No Trace, we protect our landscapes and support efforts to tackle our declining biodiversity.
"Even small actions matter, helping us to work in greater harmony and building the resilience of nature across the country. I am proud to support this campaign and encourage everyone to play their part."
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