GIVEN our national penchant for destroying the world, it should not come as a surprise to learn that 18% of our native butterflies are in danger of extinction.

TRUST the Americans to come up with novel ways of getting rid of unwanted and wilted Christmas trees in an environmentally-friendly way.

WITH most of the spotlight on the restoration of water supplies, following damage done during the freezing spell, it would be easy to overlook a paramount issue — the quality of the water we drink each day.

SLOWLY, but ever so surely, moves are being put together to develop the 368km River Shannon as one of the country’s greatest natural amenities.

ONE of the expected results of the use of domestic water meters, due to be installed in all households in the coming years, is that people will use less water, already a costly resource that could become scarce before we realise it.

THE Celtic Tiger helped destroy the character of many old villages, but efforts are underway to preserve what’s left and again make villages attractive places in which to live.

IT’S a story that’s rooted in remote places, almost lost in the heather-clad hillsides of the south-west.

THE cold period has concentrated minds on the whole area of energy, especially that which heats homes, offices, factories and places that people frequent.

A FARMING friend doesn’t rely solely on weather forecasts any more. Instead, he observes the behaviour of his animals.

DO YOU want to be connected with the wider world through modern technology – even if it means putting up with occasionally obtrusive masts – or remain in splendid rural isolation?