Announcing “Ours to Protect” an audio project uniting local and regional broadcasters across Ireland to address climate change, promote climate action, and educate audiences. Led by the Independent Broadcasters of Ireland (IBI), this collaboration involves 23 radio stations airing over 1,200 unique programs throughout the year. Programmes are on air from the 5th of June 2023 and will run until the end of May 2024.
This pioneering radio partnership recognises the significance of exploring climate change for Irish audiences. Local Independent radio stations are a trusted news source in Ireland and know that audiences rely on them to provide transparent, factual and honest reporting. The IBI believes that these programs will enhance climate literacy, raise awareness, and inspire local engagement in climate action.
Funded by Coimisiún na Meán through the Television Licence Fee, this is the largest-ever radio project funded under the Sound & Vision scheme.
Each participating station will create custom programming weekly, featuring discussions with representatives from local communities, voluntary organisations, NGOs, and state organisations. Topics include the climate impact of energy, travel, food, waste, the circular economy, biodiversity, and more. The programs will also highlight local initiatives and the contributions made by each radio station’s franchise areas in combating climate change.
To serve as a central hub for audio and resources, a new website will be launched. It will be regularly updated with additional information and radio programs, providing audiences from all over the country with a one-stop shop to enjoy programming from all 23 stations. Once launched, network members will also be able to find inspiration for their own climate content on the website.
Stations participating in the ‘Ours to Protect’ project: Beat 102-103, C103, Clare FM, Classic Hits, Cork’s 96FM, Cork’s Red FM, East Coast FM, Galway Bay FM, Highland Radio, iRadio, KCLR 96FM, Live 95FM, LMFM, Midlands 103, Midwest Radio, Ocean FM, Q102, Radio Kerry, Radio Nova, South East Radio, Sunshine 106.8, Tipp FM, and WLR.
Who are the IBI: The IBI, representing independent commercial radio broadcasters in Ireland, consists of 33 member stations with a daily listenership of 3.1 million. Its mission is to promote a robust and vibrant radio sector that caters to the preferences and needs of the public. The IBI represents radio station owners to the government and the independent regulator, Coimisiún na Meán, actively advocating for radio listeners and maintaining the highest quality programming. Currently, 70% of the population, or 3.1 million listeners, tune in to IBI stations daily.
For a preview of the audio or more information about ‘Ours to Protect,’ contact info@ourstoprotect.ie or visit the website at www.ourstoprotect.ie.
