In this article we are exploring some of the opportunities we have found to start the new near with nature and the community in mind.

It is remarkable how deeply the pandemic has rattled the global economic system to its core. By disrupting our lifestyles, it forced us to think differently about how to deal with most aspects of our everyday reality. Climate and environmental issues have come to the fore and we are now aware we need to radically change the way we consume and rekindle our relationship with Nature.

On the public front, the Government is funding millions towards environmental and community programs, so it is a good time if you are considering getting more involved with environmental initiatives or even a career change

If you are a nature enthusiast and want to get involved with activities in the Dublin Bay area, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council a Dublin Bay Biosphere Partner is seeking biodiversity experts and enthusiasts to act as advisers for an exciting new project, which will see nature making a comeback in local gardens.

Full details here

For Nation-wide opportunities, Volunteer Ireland offers plenty of projects with grassroots organisations.

Full details here

There are some interesting job opportunities available as well, particularly if you are looking for employment within the Green Economy. The Sustainable Energy Authority Ireland (SEAI) has several positions open. These are for people with specific technical qualifications. Full details here

Natural Capital Ireland (NCI), a membership organisation made up of a range of organisations from the public, private and NGO sectors are seeking contractors for a range of projects. Deadline 29 January. Full details here

If you are setting up a new venture, your first point of contact should be the Local Enterprise Office (LEO), which offers all kind of support to small businesses.

If you are in the Social Enterprise space and looking for funding check out Rethink Ireland. Deadline for several applications is early March. Rethink Ireland.

Sustainable Energy Ireland Authority’s (SEIA) ‘Better Energy Communities’ program is funding applications for community projects. Deadline 29 January. Full details here.

For anyone interested to learn more on this topic, you can join The Fossil Fuel University, a free webinar run by Kumi Naidoo - former International Executive Director of Greenpeace International and Secretary-General of Amnesty International.

Weekly lectures are broadcasted at 4 pm GMT every Saturday until mid-March and attended by hundreds across the World. Full details here.

The above opportunities are just some examples of what is happening in this first month of 2021. As we are all counting for this long winter to finish soon, the good season is guaranteed to bring new energy into our lives – and many are already getting ready for it!

This article was written by dublin Bay Biosphere Social Influencer Elena Rossi.