Living in the ‘middle earth’ of Ireland, Leah Comaskey feels very privileged to be able to reach out from her home in Westmeath to the neighbouring central counties including Longford, Offaly, Meath and Roscommon.
Leah spent time in Canada studying Town and Rural Planning with GIS and returned to Ireland to be closer to her family and continue with study of Horticulture. The time living away certainly played a huge role in her love of the outdoors and also the respect she feels for natural resources and environmental sustainability.
"Although central to everything geographically, sometimes it can feel that we hear of more happenings in the coastal areas of Ireland particularly Dublin, but being involved in the VOICE Recycling Workshops has really demonstrated to me that when it comes to active communities and environmental awareness, all manner of exciting and committed people are busy networking knowledge and resources all across the midlands
The climate in Canada really means that you get the opportunity to explore both winter and summer pursuits. Having experiences with the beautiful surroundings in hot, cold and freezing conditions brings you to the conclusion that a) there is no such thing as bad weather, only incorrect clothing choice and b) how we interact and respect our environment plays a huge role in our mental and physical well-being.
The ‘Reduce, Re-use and Recycle’ message was very prevalent during the time I spent in Canada and it still matters today. With a personal approach to reduction wherever possible, the choice of purchasing items that are at end of life recyclable into another usable material is a message I share with family, friends and anyone that is willing to listen. The opportunity to visit groups that want to hear how to go about doing their part to move Ireland in the right direction with our waste management through the current government and industry lead program developed by VOICE was almost a dream come true.
I joke with the participants on the programme that I get a buzz talking about rubbish and bringing my show and tell items with me. The reality is, we all have questions as to what the best practice is when it comes to being responsible with our waste. I love the interaction and even the hard questions because it keeps me on my toes and also learning where the struggles are for householders on a daily basis. I think as with most issues, having an open dialog is key to change for the better.
Travelling to and from workshops has highlighted many new places to explore in wild Ireland with my two boys, and discovering more than ever my passion for people, plants and the planet will continue to be the motivation."
