Rethink, Repair, Reuse!
Conference to spotlight circular economy in action
Monaghan County Council is inviting members of the public, community organisations, businesses, schools and sustainability enthusiasts to attend the Circular Economy in Action Conference: Rethink, Repair, Reuse, taking place on Saturday, October 17, from 9:30am to 1pm at the Monaghan Peace Campus. The free event forms part of Monaghan Climate Action Week 2026, Act Local: Rethink, Repair, Reuse and will showcase practical solutions, inspiring projects and innovative ideas that support a more sustainable and resource-efficient future.
The conference will explore how communities and organisations are putting circular economy principles into practice by reducing waste, extending the lifespan of products and materials, and embracing repair, reuse and sharing initiatives. Attendees will hear real-life examples of circular economy action and discover practical ways to apply these approaches within their own lives.
A diverse line-up of local and national speakers will share their expertise and experiences, including Circular.ie, The Wheel, Monaghan Integrated Development, Carrickmacross Toy Library, Circular Dress Collaborative, and Monaghan-based business Genesis Coffee Shop. Discussions will explore topics ranging from community-led sustainability projects and circular fashion to funding opportunities, repair initiatives, resource sharing, and innovative approaches to waste reduction.
The programme places a strong emphasis on showcasing local circular economy leadership alongside national expertise. Two speakers - Kevin McGuire from Genesis Coffee Shop and Sheila Clancey O’Donnell from Circular Dress Collaborative - have been shortlisted for the 2026 Full Circle Awards, recognising excellence and innovation in circular economy initiatives across Ireland. Together, these speakers will demonstrate how practical circular economy solutions are being developed and delivered both nationally and within local communities.
The event will be hosted by BBC News NI Agriculture and Environment Correspondent Louise Cullen, who will guide attendees through an engaging morning of presentations, discussion and networking.
A key feature of the conference is the Circular Economy Ideas Hub, which will be open throughout the event. The Ideas Hub will provide opportunities to meet exhibitors, community organisations, social enterprises and innovators who are demonstrating circular economy principles in action. Visitors will be able to discover repair, reuse and sharing initiatives, connect with sustainability champions and gain inspiration for practical actions that can be implemented locally.
The conference forms part of Monaghan Climate Action Week 2026, a countywide programme that highlights climate action, sustainability and community leadership through a range of events and activities taking place across the county from October 12-18.
Attendance is free of charge; however, advance registration is essential. For further information and to register, please visit the Monaghan County Council website.
Event Details
Event: Circular Economy in Action Conference: Rethink, Repair, Reuse
Date: Saturday, October 17, 2026
Time: 9.30am to 1pm
Venue: Monaghan Peace Campus
Cost: Free admission, registration required