Location: South-West Region, Ireland (Counties Clare, Limerick, and Tipperary)
Focus Areas: Sustainable soil management, biodiversity conservation, carbon sequestration, circular agriculture, and community engagement
Partners and Collaborators: SOILCRATES project partners, Technological University of the Shannon (TUS), local government bodies, agricultural advisory companies, social support organizations, and environmental research institutions
Overview
The Ireland South-West Living Lab, spread across the counties of Clare, Limerick, and Tipperary, is dedicated to addressing Ireland’s unique agricultural and environmental challenges. This Living Lab is a central element in the SOILCRATES project, with a focus on sustainable soil management, biodiversity restoration, and the integration of circular agriculture practices. Leveraging the expertise of the Technological University of the Shannon (TUS), this lab brings together local farmers, government bodies, advisory services, and social organizations to co-create solutions that are ecologically sustainable and economically viable.
The Living Lab’s main initiatives include addressing soil health issues, such as nitrogen overuse and poor drainage, and introducing innovative practices like biochar application, intercropping with nitrogen-fixing plants, and community-oriented events. The lab is structured to support knowledge exchange across multiple counties, fostering a collaborative network of stakeholders that promotes resilient agricultural systems in the Mid-West region.
Key initiatives
Reducing nitrogen fertilizer impact and restoring soil pH
The overuse of nitrogen fertilizers has led to soil acidification, disrupted nitrogen cycles, and biodiversity loss in this region. The lab promotes current solutions like liming and protected urea to stabilize soil pH and reduce nutrient runoff. Additionally, novel approaches such as biochar application and intercropping with nitrogen-fixing plants are being tested as circular solutions to minimize nitrogen dependency and restore soil balance.
Improving drainage in heavy soils
Poor drainage due to compacted soil structures poses a challenge for sustainable farming in the region. The lab investigates customized drainage systems and soil improvement techniques based on local soil conditions. Methods such as cover cropping, thatching, and topsoil biochar applications are used to increase permeability, prevent waterlogging, and enhance soil quality for long-term productivity.
Biodiversity conservation and carbon sequestration
To restore ecological balance, the lab supports the integration of biodiversity-friendly practices, including the establishment of wildlife corridors, cover cropping, and low-impact grazing. By promoting carbon sequestration through organic matter enrichment and minimal tillage, the lab aims to enhance carbon storage in soils, supporting climate resilience and ecosystem health.
Community engagement and local events
Community involvement is central to the Ireland South-West Living Lab. The lab organizes events like Christmas-themed markets, food festivals, and “Meet the Partners” gatherings, providing platforms for local residents, farmers, and stakeholders to participate in sustainable agriculture. These events also introduce the public to the lab’s objectives and encourage community-driven support for regenerative practices.
Data collection and technological innovation
TUS researchers collaborate with local partners to conduct extensive soil testing and assessments, collecting data on soil health, water quality, and environmental factors. Sensors, weather stations, and drones are deployed across 15 test sites to monitor real-time conditions. This data underpins decision-making and enables a data-driven approach to managing soil health and land use across the region.
Impact on the region
The Ireland South-West Living Lab contributes to the region’s environmental and agricultural resilience by promoting practices that address soil degradation, nutrient management, and biodiversity conservation. With a focus on nitrogen reduction, improved drainage, and carbon sequestration, the lab supports sustainable farming that protects water quality and enhances soil fertility. Community engagement events foster a collaborative approach to sustainability, empowering farmers and residents to take an active role in shaping the future of agriculture in the South-West.
