Horizons

Cranes take off: There is good news and bad news this week for Operation Migration, which is creating the world's second migratory flock of whooping cranes (See A Wing and a Prayer by Paddy Woodworth, Magazine, October 1st, 2005).

The good news is that 20 juvenile cranes took off last Friday and are following OM's microlight aircraft south through Wisconsin (see www.operationmigration.org). If they all reach Florida, the flock will increase by almost 50 per cent. The bad news? OM depends on donations, which are at their lowest point ever, while fuel costs are soaring. Former supporters may be diverting dollars to other causes following Hurricane Katrina. At present, there is only enough petrol to take the birds as far as Tennessee , two states short of their target. If you want to help, or just follow their progress, check out OM's excellent website.

Green funding

A community composting and green area in Stoneybatter, Dublin, an environmental awareness campaign involving active retirement and traveller groups in Co Meath and a green map promoting walking routes in Cork city. Just three of the nine projects which were awarded funds from the Vodafone and Conservation Ireland Nature Fund this week. "For too long environmental protection was left to the law, particularly European law These are wonderful examples of people taking responsibility for protection of the environment into their own hands," said Mairead McGuinness MEP at the award ceremony. The funds of €20,000 come from Vodafone's mobile recycling programme which encourages people to recycle unwanted mobile phones, chargers and mobile phone batteries at recycling units in schools, colleges, Vodafone and Superquinn stores, and bring centres throughout the country.

Bogs protected

The Irish Peatland Conservation Council has welcomed the formal designation of 70 raised bogs and 73 blanket bogs as Natural Heritage Areas by the Government this week. Essentially, this means the sites are legally protected and recognised for their conservation value. See www.ipcc.ie for more details.

Meanwhile, walking enthusiasts can enjoy 11 different walks at the Wicklow Mountains Walking Festival next weekend. A torch-lit night walk on the Wicklow Way on Friday night and a two-hour guided family walk on Sunday are included in the programme. Advanced booking essential on 0404 20070. See also www.wicklow.ie/tourism.

Fairtrade grows

About one in two Irish people now recognise the Fairtrade Mark and sales for Fairtrade products are increasing by 50 per cent annually. This growth of awareness in the international organisation which promotes better pay and working conditions for producers in developing countries has also been seen in the growth of Fairtrade towns. Cork, Kilkenny, Kinsale and Waterford have joined Clonakilty, which was declared the first Fairtrade town in Ireland in 2003. Belfast city was also granted Fairtrade status earlier this year. See www.fairtrade.ie and www.fairtrade.net.