VOICE of Irish Concern for the Environment
MISSION
VOICE is a member-based Irish environmental charity that empowers individuals and local communities to take positive action to conserve our natural resources. VOICE advocates for the government and the corporate sector to adopt environmentally responsible behaviours, and for the development of strong national policies on waste and water issues.
VOICE was founded in 1997 following the closure of Greenpeace Ireland.
HIGHLIGHTS
Introducing the plastic bag tax in Ireland which was adopted as a national policy in 2001.
Hosting 'Feeding the 5000' in Dublin 2012 and numerous 'Food Rescue' events with communities across Ireland since.
Establishing Ireland’s first 'Toward's Zero Waste' community in Cashel, Co. Tipperary, in 2017.
Launching a Recycling Ambassador Programme in 2017 to help improve Ireland's recycling rates.
Supporting the Conscious Cup Campaign promoting the use of reusable cups over disposables.
VOICE is an active member of the European Environmental Bureau (EEB), Seas at Risk, SWAN, Stop Climate Chaos the Irish Environmental Network and the Environmental Pillar.
VOICE patrons include Darina Allen, Christy Moore, Pauline Bewick, Dick Warner, Don Conroy, John Feehan, Brendan Kennelly and Sr. Mary Minehan.
GOVERNANCE
VOICE is compliant with the governance code and our governance handbook is available to view in our office.
The VOICE board has adopted a resolution to adopt the Statement of Guiding Principles for Fundraising and confirms that VOICE is committed to complying with the Statement (see: Board Resolution Fundraising Statement).
We are in the process of developing fundraising policies and will adhere to the highest fundraising standards.
To illustrate our commitment to transparency, we are making available our VOICE Articles and Memorandum of Association.
Our board members are; Ruth McGrath - Chair, Gay Brabazon, Gary Clare, Ken Kilbride and Michael O’Dwyer
FUNDING
VOICE is funded through a variety of sources, including the Department of Communications, Climate Action and the Environment, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Irish Environmental Network (IEN), Membership fees, Local Authorities through Local Authority 21 (LA21) grants, and donations.
