An Talamh Bhláfar (The Fertile Land) is a song that bridges heritage, culture, and sustainability. Created by Maynooth University (MU) and University College Dublin (UCD) through the Horizon Europe BioBeo project and the BiOrbic BioCultúr project, it shares the significance of the bioeconomy with communities through the arts.
Maynooth University and University College Dublin cocreated the world’s first circular bioeconomy puppet show, with students from Maynooth University and University College Dublin. The students used biobased materials for its puppets and stage, with the story based on Answering the Curlew’s Call. Developed as part of the BioBeo elective module, the project blends sustainability education with Irish cultural traditions, incorporating traditional crafts like knitting and crochet.
The puppet show raises awareness about biodiversity conservation through the story of the endangered curlew bird, integrating both Irish language and sustainability themes. Teacher guidance notes help replicate the project in classrooms worldwide, spreading the message of sustainability and cultural heritage. This innovative initiative demonstrates how education can merge environmental awareness with cultural preservation for lasting impact.