Network Ireland Cork recently planted their Community Orchard Project in Ballincollig as a sustainability initiative to offset the environmental impact of the 2025 Businesswoman of the Year Awards.
Led by Cathy Fitzgibbon, ex-officio of Network Ireland Cork, the project created permaculture-inspired orchards designed to enhance biodiversity, support pollinators and leave a lasting environmental legacy for the city.
The orchard was delivered in partnership with Green Spaces for Health and the Cork Biodiversity Hub, with support from the Cork ETB Horticulture Department at the Kinsale Road Campus, whose students assisted with planting and early care.
Speaking about the project, Cathy Fitzgibbon said: “Our awards celebrate women in business, but they also give us the opportunity to lead with purpose. This project reflects our focus on legacy, creating something enduring that will benefit Cork’s community for years to come.”
Designed by Donal Chambers of the Kinsale College Permaculture Course, they features native Irish fruit trees and shrubs, with areas managed to allow wildflowers to bloom naturally and encourage biodiversity.
The orchard now stands as a living legacy of sustainability, collaboration and care for future generations.
For more information on Network Ireland Cork visit https://networkireland.ie/page/CorkBranch
