Jacinta established the 60+ Climate Drive in 2023, a grassroots movement dedicated to empowering older adults to take meaningful climate action. Since then, she has travelled widely throughout Galway and across numerous other counties, engaging with retirement groups, carers’ networks, Men’s Sheds, Women’s Groups, Tidy Towns committees, Active in Age groups, and a diverse range of community and voluntary organisations.
Jacinta’s six‑week Climate Action Course breaks down climate change in a straightforward, relatable way, making the science easy to understand and translating it into practical steps people can take in their daily lives to cut carbon emissions. Feedback has been exceptionally positive, with many participants saying they now have a much clearer grasp of climate issues and feel more motivated and confident to take action.
In 2024, the 6-week, 6-step climate action course was conducted in Oranmore and Ballygar. Developed and facilitated by Jacinta, a former UN resident coordinator and CEO of the 60 plus Climate Drive organisation, the course addressed the direct link between everyday actions and climate change. Participants learned how to change their behavior, calculate their carbon footprint and implement climate actions in their homes and communities. Individuals are motivated to engage at community level in projects that demonstrate actions that help to reduce greenhouse gases emissions, promote sustainable development while also bringing health benefits to communities. They are now influencers encouraging others to take action.
In November 2025, Jacinta hosted One hour Climate Conversation Webinars on Zoom in partnership with Galway County Council & Carlow County Council. The aim of these sessions was to encourage community groups to engage with the “WHY” behind climate action and to provide a short 10–15-minute overview by the Community Climate Action Officer on the Community Climate Action Fund to support applications.
Recognition
Jacinta’s programme has received national recognition by being nominated and shortlisted for the National Age Friendly Awards 2025 under the Age Friendly Community Innovation category, sponsored by the Department of Rural & Community Development. This award recognises those innovative projects that are driven by older people for older people. These projects not only enhance the lives of older people but benefit the community at large.
Furthermore, Jacinta was successful in Galway County Council's 2025 Cathaoirleach Awards in the Environment and Climate Action Category. The award was presented by Cathaoirleach Martina Kinane on the 16th May 2025.
