M‑CO has been working with the Creative Ireland Programme and the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications (DECC) since June 2019 on an initiative which is building the capacity for the cultural and creative sectors to engage the public on climate change and climate action in Ireland. Beginning with a piece of multifaceted research, M‑CO produced a report which clearly showed the value of the creative and cultural communities in meaningfully connecting people with profound changes happening in our environment, society and economy arising from climate change.
Following this, M‑CO designed and facilitated an online conference which brought together over 70 senior-level participants working in government departments, public sector organisations, third-level education, NGOs and more, crossing a range of sectors, to learn about opportunities at this intersection and to build partnerships.
Our work has culminated in the delivery of a €2 million fund for creative and cultural projects. Co‑funded by the Department of Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sports and Media and the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications, this fund is the first of its kind in Ireland. M‑CO have supported both clients on the design and communications of the fund, producing a briefing note and application form for interested applicants. This fund has seen huge interest with almost 200 applicants from a variety of organisations and local authorities across Ireland.