Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan TD, has launched the Local Biodiversity Action Fund 2026, making €3 million available to local authorities across Ireland to support biodiversity projects. Managed by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), the fund aims to promote research, habitat management, invasive species control, and other locally-led conservation initiatives, in alignment with Ireland’s fourth National Biodiversity Action Plan.
Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD, highlighted the importance of public spaces for biodiversity, health, and wellbeing, emphasizing the unique role local authorities play in working with communities to protect nature. The fund builds on previous successes, with over 260 projects supported across 31 local authorities in 2025, coordinated by Biodiversity and Heritage Officers.
Minister O’Sullivan noted that the 2026 fund will enable practical and creative projects to protect species and habitats, citing examples such as surveys of rare birds and plants, restoration of wetlands, grasslands, and rivers, and measures to protect species like Barn Owls and Lesser Horseshoe Bats. The fund also fosters collaboration between communities and local authorities, strengthening biodiversity initiatives at the local level.
Since its establishment in 2018, the Local Biodiversity Action Fund has granted over €13 million to support local authority biodiversity work. Past projects have included creating new habitats through the ‘Hare’s Corner’ initiative, surveying rare birds such as the Nightjar, managing wildflower meadows to support pollinators, protecting Barn Owls with nest boxes and awareness campaigns, and controlling invasive species like Japanese Knotweed and Giant Hogweed.
Applications for the 2026 funding round are open until 5 February 2026, inviting local authorities to submit proposals for projects that will enhance biodiversity, protect species, and restore habitats across Ireland.
