Carlow Businesses Explore Sustainability at “Sustainable for Success” Breakfast Event

Over 80 Carlow business owners attended a successful Business Breakfast entitled “Sustainable for Success” on Wednesday, October 16th, 2024. The event was organised as part of Climate Action Week by Carlow County Council’s Local Enterprise Office in partnership with Bank of Ireland and attracted local business owners eager to learn how embracing sustainability can benefit their companies.

The event was opened by Coilín O’Reilly, Chief Executive of Carlow County Council who outlined the strategies and plans the Council are following to reduce their own carbon footprint and the positive impact of this that has been measured.

He was followed by presentations from Colette Shirley, Sustainability Director for Corporate and Commercial Banking at Bank of Ireland who discussed the positive impact of sustainable practices on business performance; sustainability expert Michael Carty, who explained how investment in sustainability can drive profit in businesses and Sarah Byrne, Business Advisor with the Local Enterprise Office who detailed the sustainability supports available to Carlow businesses. Following the presentations was a panel discussion involving Janette O’Brien, Climate Coordinator with Carlow County Council and Stephen Trant, Senior Relationship Manager with Bank of Ireland who both provided relevant and timely insights.

“Sustainability is no longer a choice, it’s a necessity,” said Séamus Doran, Assistant Head of Economic Development & Enterprise at Carlow County Council after the event. “This breakfast event was organised to empower local businesses by providing them with valuable insights and practical strategies for integrating sustainability into their operations. The attendees left with a new enthusiasm for building a sustainable future”

“By adopting sustainable practices, businesses can not only reduce their environmental impact, but also improve their bottom line,” said Edel Maher, Branch Manager with Bank of Ireland Carlow who formally closed the event. “Bank of Ireland is proud to partner with Carlow County Council to deliver this event as a support to local businesses on their sustainability journey.”  

Carlow County Council’s Local Enterprise Office offers a variety of resources and practical supports to help businesses become more sustainable. These include sustainability audits and expert advice, financial support through the Energy Efficiency grant and ongoing training opportunities. Full details can be found at localenterprise.ie/Carlow

Further Information: Sarah Byrne, Business Advisor 087-7045255 sbyrne@carlowcoco.ie