Preserving Ireland's Bogs– Memory, Identity, and the Path Forward

Summary

I reland’s bogs are more than landscapes; they are living archives of history, memory, and cultural identity. For centuries, they have shaped rural economies, provided a lifeline of warmth and fuel, and embedded themselves deeply into the collective consciousness of communities across the country. However, as Ireland transitions away from peat burning to meet climate goals, these landscapes are now at the center of a complex and often contentious debate. How can conservation efforts respect both environmental imperatives and the livelihoods of those who have stewarded these lands for generations? In this conversation, human geographer Breandán O Caoimh offers a compelling perspective on the social, cultural, and economic impacts of this transition. A Kerry native with a lifelong connection to the land, O Caoimh has spent years researching rural development and the intersection of policy and place. Drawing on personal memories, historical context, and practical solutions, he explores how a just transition can balance ecological responsibility with rural sustainability. From the scent of turf fires to the resilience of local communities, this discussion delves into what is at stake and what the future might hold for Ireland’s bogs. Through this dialogue, we ask: How can policy shifts honor the deep emotional and historical ties people have to the land? What role do community-driven approaches play in shaping an equitable path forward? And as turf cutting declines, what new symbols, scents, and traditions might emerge to define Ireland’s evolving relationship with its natural heritage? Breandán O Caoimh: I am a Kerry-based human geographer, living just outside Cahersiveen—over the water, as it is locally known. I grew up on a dairy farm in East Kerry, where my brother now farms suckler cattle. My lifelong interest in the land and farming naturally led me to geography. I spent many years working in rural development before pursuing a degree in human geography, ultimatel...