The FLIARA Project is delighted to announce that The Galway Wool Co-op, led by FLIARA Ambassador Blátnaid Gallagher from Ireland, has been selected as a finalist in the Agricultural & Rural Inspiration Awards (ARIA) 2024 for the Socio-economic Fabric for Rural Areas category. This recognition underscores the co-op’s dedication to restoring the value of native Irish wool, showcasing the power of local resources to promote both economic and environmental sustainability.
The ARIA 2024 highlights projects funded by the EU’s Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) that foster lifelong learning, innovation, and competitiveness in agriculture and rural development. Out of over 100 applications, only 24 groundbreaking initiatives have made it to the final shortlist. While a jury will determine the winners for each category and the Gender Equality Award, you have the chance to decide which project claims the “Most Popular” title. Cast your vote by December 1st to support The Galway Wool Co-op! Vote here.
Founded in 2019, The Galway Wool Co-op has pioneered a model for preserving and promoting native Irish wool as a sustainable, niche resource with both local and international appeal. With funding from the LEADER programme in 2021, the co-op launched an e-commerce platform, connecting growers with buyers who value this rare wool. This initiative has increased the market price of Irish Galway wool from €0.20 to €2.50 per kilogram—an impressive 1,660% rise—benefiting sheep farmers across Ireland and creating a new source of revenue for rural communities.
In addition to financial impact, each kilogram of Galway wool grown absorbs two kilograms of carbon, making wool production an environmentally sustainable practice and a natural carbon sink. Through this community-driven initiative, Irish farmers now take pride in producing high-quality wool, contributing to the crafts industry, and reviving a unique cultural heritage.
The success of The Galway Wool Co-op serves as a replicable model for wool growers across Europe, showcasing how LEADER funding can empower local cooperatives to increase autonomy and add value to wool production.
To learn more about this remarkable project, visit the EU CAP Network platform: Galway Wool Co-op.
Vote now to support Irish innovation and sustainability: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ZMVR78N