Ireland: A Shark Sanctuary and a Champion for Sustainable Practices
Ireland may be known for its lush green landscapes, but hidden beneath the waves lies a world teeming with marine life. In fact, Ireland is home to a surprising 71 species of sharks, skates, and rays, with a staggering 58 of them listed as threatened species. Tralee Bay, often hailed as a “jewel in the crown” of Irish marine life, serves as a crucial haven for some of these endangered creatures.
Protecting Ireland’s Marine Jewels
In the first episode of “10 Things To Know About” on RTÉ1, airing on Monday at 8.30pm, viewers embark on a journey alongside researchers dedicated to tracking and tagging sharks. This vital work aims to deepen our understanding and ultimately protect these magnificent creatures.
Beyond Sharks: Exploring Ireland’s Diverse Natural Wonders
This episode of “10 Things To Know About” delves beyond the depths of the sea, venturing into the heartland of Wicklow. Here, data scientists utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) and satellite technology are tirelessly working to monitor Ireland’s precious peatlands and safeguard its exceptional natural resources. Fergus McAuliffe also shares the fascinating story of centuries-old bog butter.
Heated: The Irish Coast Under Focus
The “Heated” series on RTÉ1, premiering on Tuesday at 7pm, shines a spotlight on the importance of the Irish coast. In this episode, Coastwatch embarks on a mission to map all seagrass meadows within Irish waters. These underwater meadows are invaluable ecosystems, playing a crucial role in carbon removal, water purification, and biodiversity support. However, the process of identifying and verifying a meadow is far from easy, as one volunteer discovers off the Clare coast.
Heated also explores the innovative world of sustainable materials. The passion of a home brewer sparked an unexpected journey leading to the development of a sustainable plastic derived from by-products of beer and whiskey production. Finally, the episode highlights a resourceful charity that gives a second life to pre-loved kitchens and bathrooms, preventing them from ending up in landfills.