Longford County Council launches Arts sustainability initiative

New R.A.C.E project transforms festival waste into creative opportunities

Press Release: Thursday, 7 August 2025 

Longford County Council has announced the launch of R.A.C.E (Repaired Arts Circular Economy), an innovative project designed to revolutionise how artists approach sustainability within festival and event settings. The initiative, delivered in partnership with Mayo County Council, receives funding through the Environmental Protection Agency's Reuse and Repair scheme 2024.

The programme invites artists from Longford, Mayo and surrounding regions to participate in comprehensive training focused on circular economy practices, followed by practical application through festival-based art projects. Selected participants will receive €125 training honoraria, with material grants of approximately €900 available for project implementation.

Arts Officer with Longford County Council, Shane Crossan said, "The Arts Community can play an important role in creating greater awareness of recycling in our communities and our need to adopt a more sustainable way of living. This research and training will support artists in Longford and Mayo to recycle and upcycle art made for festivals such as Halloween and St. Patrick's Day parades."

Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council, Cllr Garry Murtagh said, "This project demonstrates our commitment to environmental leadership whilst supporting our vibrant creative community. We are helping to create solutions that benefit both our environment and our cultural landscape. R.A.C.E represents the kind of forward-thinking collaboration that positions Longford at the forefront of sustainable arts practice."

Chief Executive of Longford County Council, Paddy Mahon said, "This EPA-funded project showcases how local government can facilitate meaningful partnerships between environmental responsibility and cultural development, delivering tangible outcomes for our communities."

The three-phase programme commences with introduction sessions in September 2025, followed by intensive two-day training workshops in November. The practical work phase runs from January to June 2026, culminating in a research seminar to disseminate findings.

Training delivery comes through Mayo Arts Squad, supported by specialist guest trainers and a dedicated project researcher who will analyse outcomes and prepare comprehensive findings for wider sector benefit.

Longford County Council's Arts Office and Environmental Section will lead the project implementation, reflecting the council's integrated approach to cultural and environmental policy.

Application Details:

• Deadline: 5pm, Friday, 12 September 2025
• Online applications: Online Project Application
• CV submissions: artsoffice@longfordcoco.ie
• Introduction sessions: Mayo (25 September: 10am-2pm), Longford (26, September 10am-2pm)
• Training workshops: Mayo (6, November: 10am-4pm), Longford (27, November: 10am-4pm)

Successful applicants must demonstrate prior festival/event experience, reside within the target regions, and commit to full programme participation including 2026 project delivery.