
Niamh’s
Nature Blog
Connecting you deeper to our natural world we all share our lives with

Yes, we should bring back the Dire Wolf-but is this it?
Discover the fascinating intersection of science and philosophy in the quest to revive the extinct dire wolf. This blog examines the profound questions and ethical considerations behind genetic modification and ecological restoration, highlighting our deep connection to the past and our responsibilities to the future.

They killed the forest’s guardian and kept digging
An Indigenous man stands among the trees in the Amazon, symbolising the frontline resistance against deforestation and extractive threats. His presence reflects a deep ancestral connection to the land.

Greenwashing: don't be deceived by eco-claims
Greenwashing has become a widespread practice in many industries, from cosmetics to fashion to food. It can be difficult to distinguish between truly eco-friendly products and those that are simply using green marketing to make a profit. In this article, we will explore some of the most common types of greenwashing and offer tips on how to avoid falling for it.

Nature & folklore: an interwoven legacy in Ireland
Irish folklore and nature have a deep and intertwined relationship that has been passed down through generations. From ancient tales of faeries, banshees, and leprechauns to modern legends of haunted forests and mysterious lakes, Irish folklore has always been steeped in the natural world.

Ivy does not kill trees: debunking the myth
Ivy has a reputation for being a ruthless "killer" of trees, strangling them and taking away their life force. This perception of ivy has been ingrained in many people's minds for years, and as a result, ivy is often seen as a nuisance plant that should be removed. However, this view is not entirely accurate, and it is important to understand why ivy has such a bad reputation and why it is so beneficial for wildlife.

Trees secret intelligence: a look at this hidden world
Trees have been a source of inspiration and wonder for humans for thousands of years. From the ancient mythologies that depict trees as guardians and protectors of the earth to the more recent scientific discoveries about their complex systems and processes, trees have captured our imagination and left us in awe. But what about their intelligence? Can trees be considered intelligent beings?

Ireland’s fake forests: why our “forests” are not natural
Conifer plantations are large monocultures of non-native conifer trees, such as Sitka spruce, pine, and larch. These plantations were introduced to Ireland in the late 19th and early 20th centuries to meet the increasing demand for timber. However, the introduction of conifer plantations has had a profound and lasting impact on Ireland's biodiversity, and has led to significant harm to the country's ecosystems. In this essay, we will examine what conifer plantations are, why they were introduced to Ireland, and why they are bad for Ireland's biodiversity.
