Community designed
Community-led from the ground up. Every programme begins with local voices, bringing together artists, scientists and communities to create lasting environmental change.
Our journey so far
Since 2022, communities across Ireland have been shaping their own Floating Voices programmes. Explore each programme below to discover the stories, partnerships and environmental action created together.
Our programmes
Every programme tells a different story, but they all begin in the same place, with communities coming together to shape the future of their local waterways.
SHARED ISLAND PROGRAMME 2026
Throughout 2026, Floating Voices has been delivering two cross-border eco-educational programmes, bringing together schools, community groups and adults with learning disabilities from Waterford, Derry and Antrim. Working alongside artists and ecologist Katrina Bent, participants explored coastal erosion, biodiversity, river health and climate action while sharing ideas, stories and creative solutions across communities.
Made possible through the generous support of the Department of Foreign Affairs Shared Island Initiative.
FLOATING VOICES FESTIVAL 2025
The first Floating Voices Festival brought together environmental leaders, artists, educators, businesses and local communities to explore how creativity can inspire climate action. Through panel discussions, exhibitions, music and guided walks, the festival celebrated the growing movement behind Floating Voices. Perhaps its greatest success was something unexpected; the festival brought together the working group that continues to help guide and champion the project today.
Supported by Waterford City & County Council.
Eco-Educational Programme 2024
Waterford
Working with students from Ardscoil na Mara and adults from the Brothers of Charity, this programme explored how native wildflowers and biodiversity play an essential role in protecting rivers, improving water quality and reducing flooding. Science, creativity and hands-on learning came together to inspire practical environmental action.
Eco-Educational Programme 2023
Waterford
Young people from Abbey Community College and residents of the Little Sisters of the Poor came together to create a shared seasonal garden while learning about biodiversity and the changing rhythms of nature. The programme demonstrated the power of creativity to connect generations through environmental learning.
Eco-Educational Programme 2022
Waterford
The very first Floating Voices programme explored the rich history and heritage of the River Suir, celebrating the river's importance in shaping Waterford's identity, shipbuilding tradition and community life. Working with young people and the Friends of the River Suir, the programme laid the foundations for everything Floating Voices has become today.
HELP US BUILD THE NEXT CHAPTER
Every programme you've explored on this page has been shaped by communities, artists and scientists working together to protect Ireland's waterways.The Floating Voices barge will bring these ideas, stories and creative projects to communities across the country, becoming a travelling classroom, a showcase for community creativity and a community hub where people can learn, connect and inspire environmental action together.Help us build the barge and bring Floating Voices to every waterway in Ireland.
BE PART OF FLOATING VOICES
Whether you're an artist, scientist, educator, community group, local authority, potential funder or simply someone who cares about Ireland's waterways, we'd love to hear from you. If you'd like to take part, collaborate, support a programme or ask a question, get in touch or join our mailing list to follow the journey.
