Kilkenny County Council’s Environment Section, in collaboration with the Council’s Biodiversity Office and Climate Action Office, has launched a hands-on community initiative to help residents turn fallen autumn leaves into rich, organic compost known as leaf mould.
Over the weekend of Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th October, eight residential estates across Kilkenny City took part in practical workshops to build their own leaf mould cages specially designed enclosures that recycle leaves into valuable compost for use in community green spaces and gardens.
The Leaf Mould Project, funded by Kilkenny County Council and supported by Benton Ecological Solutions & Technology, is a collaborative community action that combines environmental education, biodiversity protection and climate resilience. Each participating estate received training, signage and equipment from the Council’s Environmental Awareness team, with support from local volunteers and residents.
This initiative aligns with key objectives in both the Kilkenny Biodiversity Action Plan 2025-2030 and the Kilkenny Litter Management Plan 2024-2026 encouraging natural solutions to waste reduction, promoting the reuse of organic materials and enhancing biodiversity across urban areas.
By keeping leaves out of the waste stream, the project helps to reduce landfill use and transport emissions, while creating a sustainable resource that improves soil health and supports pollinators.
Mags Whelan, Environmental Education and Awareness Officer with Kilkenny County Council, said “This project demonstrates how small, local actions can make a big environmental impact. By reusing leaves in their own communities, residents are helping to reduce waste, prevent littering and produce nutrient-rich compost. It’s a practical, feel-good initiative that supports the goals of both our Litter Management and Climate Action Plans.”
Bernadette Moloney, Biodiversity Officer, added: “Leaf mould is nature’s own recycling system. It improves soil structure, retains moisture and provides habitat for vital organisms. Through projects like this, we’re helping people reconnect with natural processes while supporting the biodiversity targets outlined in our Biodiversity Action Plan. It’s community-led sustainability in action.”
The project also contributes to the delivery of the Local Authority Climate Action Plan 2024–2029, which emphasises community participation in waste prevention, local composting, and carbon reduction. Each estate will continue to monitor and maintain their cages, with the finished leaf mould ready for use as mulch or compost within 12 to 18 months.
Kilkenny County Council aims to extend the programme to additional residential areas in 2026, inviting more communities to take part in this simple yet powerful example of circular, community-based climate action.
For more information on community composting, biodiversity projects and other environmental initiatives, visit www.kilkennycoco.ie.
