Louth school pupils make it a ‘Greener Christmas’ as poetry winners celebrated

By Olivia Ryan, The Drogheda Independent

School children from across Louth showed their poetic flair as winners of the Greener Christmas Poetry competition 2025 were recognised at a ceremony hosted by Louth County Council.

The competition is part of the local authority’s seasonal Christmas waste management campaign and celebrates the creativity of primary school pupils across the county in promoting sustainability during the festive season.

The awards were presented to the winners at a ceremony in the council offices, Town Hall, Dundalk.

The seasonal Christmas waste management campaign of ‘Reduce, Reuse, Recycle’ is running throughout December and into the new year. It aims to encourage and educate the community on responsible waste disposal and sustainable living during Christmas. The ‘Greener Christmas Poetry Competition’ was open to all primary schools in the county and aims to spread a strong green message beyond classrooms and into homes.

Prizes were awarded to schools from the Municipal Districts of Ardee and Dundalk and the Borough District of Drogheda, with each winning school receiving €200. Individual awards were also presented for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place, along with an overall county winner.

Winning poems were recorded during the ceremony and featured as part of Louth County Council’s ‘Greener Christmas’ campaign on LMFM Radio throughout the festive season, while runners-up will be showcased on the Council’s website and social media channels.

Cllr Sean Kelly, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council commented:

“Christmas is a time of joy and celebration, but it’s also a time when waste can easily pile up. This year’s theme, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle,’ reminds us that small actions—like reusing gift bags, recycling packaging, and reducing food waste—can make a big difference.

I’m proud of the creativity and commitment shown by our young poets in spreading this vital message. Together, we can make this Christmas greener and more sustainable for everyone.”

“Louth County Council congratulates all participants for helping to share the green message across the county. The Council is encouraging everyone to embrace sustainability this festive season—because small changes make a big difference.”

For recycling information and holiday opening hours, visit www.louthcoco.ie.