Sustainable Communites

Sustainability comes from collective action that is designed and delivered in a way that includes everyone. We believe that nurturing sustainability is a task for all and not the exclusive domain of academia, statutory bodies, government departments or any one particular sector of our society. Achieving sustainability does, however, require a commitment to partnership.

The principles of sustainability – human, social, economic and environmental – and their development are all connected. Through our work we seek to provide a package of stimuli for individuals, their families, communities and businesses to help them build resilient and sustainable populations and places, meet their needs and future proof their development.

We value our surroundings and are very aware of environmental impacts on people, communities, towns and villages throughout the county. We understand that businesses of all sizes are actively working towards a more sustainable future. As a result, we closely collaborate with all segments of our community to provide specialised training and support programs focused on promoting a green environment. We also recognise the significance of adhering to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and have developed a dedicated report that serves as a blueprint for all our initiatives.

Legacy – Traditional Skills Craft Master Videos
As part of OLDC’s commitment to the exceptional talents of Offaly’s traditional craftspeople, a series of short documentaries have been produced to showcase some of the best of Offaly’s traditional crafts, from blacksmithing and weaving to jewellery design, basket weaving, slate carving, and Mountmellick embroidery.
Offaly Social Enterprise Network (OSEN)
The Offaly Social Enterprise Network (OSEN) was officially launched in November 2022 to connect and strengthen social enterprises across the county. This network empowers its members—including Birr Leisure Centre and Pullough Community Shop—to share skills, knowledge, and peer support to achieve sustainable growth and enhance community services.
Green Business – Create Green Offaly
A specialized training and mentoring programme designed for SMEs in the Creative and Artisan Food sectors. Create Green helps businesses reduce their environmental footprint, cut costs, and build a sustainable brand. Graduates are featured in a professional video as 'Offaly Green Champions.'
Community Planning
Fostering local connections and strengthening our communities. We support local community groups in developing plans, managing projects, and accessing funding to build collective resilience.
Building Healthy Communities
The Building Healthy Communities (BHC) project has been delivered in Offaly since 2004 through a dedicated interagency approach. The project uses a population health framework and involves six key statutory agencies (including the HSE and Offaly County Council) to develop actions that enhance the health and well-being of targeted local communities.