Question 1

What is Food Forests Ireland?

Accepted Answer

Food Forests Ireland is a national environmental, education, and training organisation dedicated to planting and nurturing food forests across Ireland. We evolved from the Edible Landscape Project to expand our mission toward building resilient, community-led food forests that support climate adaptation, biodiversity, and a circular bio-economy.

Question 2

What is a food forest?

Accepted Answer

A food forest is a layered, self-sustaining ecosystem modelled on natural forests but designed to produce food, fuel, and other useful products. It includes a mix of trees, shrubs, herbs, and groundcover plants that work together to regenerate the land, increase biodiversity, and provide sustainable yields for communities.

Question 3

What is the circular bio-economy and how do food forests fit in?

Accepted Answer

The circular bio-economy is an approach to managing natural resources that prioritizes renewable biological materials, waste reduction, and closed-loop systems. Food forests embody this by regenerating soil health, sequestering carbon, producing local food, and supporting biodiversity - all while minimizing waste and fostering sustainable local economies

Question 4

How can I get involved with Food Forests Ireland?

Accepted Answer

There are many ways to participate! You can:
Volunteer in planting and maintenance projects
Host a food forest on your land or organisation
Donate to support our work
Partner with us as a business or community group
Visit our Get Involved page for current opportunities and events.

Question 5

Who can host a food forest?

Accepted Answer

Individuals, schools, community groups, businesses, and local authorities can all host food forests. We provide guidance, toolkits, and support to help you plan, design, and maintain a thriving food forest that suits your space and goals.

Question 6

How does Food Forests Ireland support education?

Accepted Answer

We offer tailored education programs for schools, communities, and businesses, including:
Curriculum-linked lesson plans
Workshops and training in food forest design and care
Our aim is to empower learners of all ages to engage with nature and sustainability hands-on.

Question 7

What impact have Food Forests Ireland’s projects achieved?

Accepted Answer

Our food forests contribute to:
Climate resilience
Increased local biodiversity
Community wellbeing
Promotion of a circular bio-economy

We track key metrics such as trees planted, forests grown, volunteers engaged, and children educated. Visit our Data & Impact page for live updates.

Question 8

How is Food Forests Ireland funded?

Accepted Answer

We are supported by a mix of:
Grants
Donations
Partnerships
Social enterprise activities

Our funders include public bodies, private foundations, and community supporters who share our vision for sustainable food systems and regenerative landscapes.

Question 9

How does Food Forests Ireland align with national and global policies?

Accepted Answer

Our work supports:
Ireland’s Climate Action Plan (2024)
The European Green Deal (2019-2030)
The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (2015-2030), especially goals related to climate action, biodiversity, sustainable cities, and responsible consumption.
National Biodiversity Action Plan (2017-2025) - supporting restoration and protection of Ireland’s natural habitats.
Heritage Ireland 2030 -promoting the safeguarding and celebration of Ireland’s cultural and natural heritage.
Forest Ireland Strategy (2025-2045) - focusing on sustainable forest management, expanding native woodland cover, and integrating forestry with rural development.
By aligning with these policies, Food Forests Ireland advances a holistic approach to land stewardship that honours both ecological and cultural heritage while fostering resilient, productive landscapes.

Question 10

What is the difference between Food Forests Ireland and the Edible Landscape Project?

Accepted Answer

Food Forests Ireland builds upon the foundation laid by the Edible Landscape Project, expanding its focus to incorporate:
Circular bio-economy framework
Broader climate adaptation strategies
Enhanced community and educational programming
This transition reflects our evolving mission and scale.

Question 11

Can I submit my own food forest story?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We encourage community members, educators, volunteers, and partners to share their food forest experiences. Visit our News & Stories page to submit your story and help inspire others.

Question 12

How can I contact Food Forests Ireland?

Accepted Answer

You can reach us via our Contact Us page, where you’ll find:
A contact form
Newsletter signup
Social media links
We welcome questions, partnership inquiries, and media requests.

Question 13

Policy alignments

Accepted Answer

Ireland’s Climate Action Plan Climate Action Plan 2024 (Published: December 2023)
Focus: Nature- based solutions, community engagement, land use, just transition

European Green Deal  European Green Deal (Launched: December 2019)
Ongoing through 2030 as the EU’s overarching sustainability framework
Includes: Farm to Fork Strategy (2020); EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 (2020); EU Circular Economy Action Plan (2020); Soil Strategy for 2030 (2021)

United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Adopted: 2015, to be achieved by 2030
Relevant goals for Food Forests Ireland: SDG 2 – Zero Hunger; SDG 4 – Quality Education; SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities & Communities; SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption & Production; SDG 13 – Climate Action; SDG 15 – Life on Land

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