Kilkenny 'Changemakers' shortlisted for major national awards

Two Kilkenny men have been nominated for prestigious, national forestry awards.

The Royal Dublin Society (RDS) is pleased to announce that Michael O'Neill and Ballyfad Woodland Coillte – Eoin Wemyss have been shortlisted for the 2026 RDS Foundation Awards.

Representing Kilkenny on a national stage, Michael O'Neill has been shortlisted in the Silvicultural Excellence & Innovation Award category, and Eoin Wemyss has been shortlisted in the Community Woodland Award category, both as part of the Forest and Woodland Awards.

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Winners will be announced at an Awards ceremony at the RDS on April 16, as part of the Finding Common Ground Festival.

For almost 300 years, the RDS has been about turning ideas into action. Today, our greatest challenge as a society is a divided landscape where environmental needs and economic realities often seem at odds. The RDS Foundation Awards, celebrating the leaders who are already ‘finding common ground’ – proving that a thriving economy and the environment can go hand in hand.  

The RDS Agriculture & Forestry Awards and the RDS Circular Economy Awards recognise individuals, organisations, and businesses driving economic, environmental, and social progress in Ireland - from strengthening rural communities to advancing sustainable production and consumption. 

Commenting on the festival, Sarah Keating, Sustainability & Innovation Programme Manager at the RDS, said:  “The finalists are perfect examples of the ‘Common Ground’ we are seeking to highlight. They are doing the work on the ground – showing us that the transition to a sustainable future is not just a theory, it’s a practical reality that strengthens our local communities and economies. This festival reflects the RDS’s commitment to creating spaces where practical ideas can be shared and collaboration fostered. Together, we can accelerate progress and build a more resilient and sustainable future for Ireland.”