The Environmental Pillar is the advocacy arm of the Irish Environmental Network, where national environmental non-governmental organisations (NGOs) come together to develop and advance policy solutions, and represent the views of the Irish environmental sector.
Established in 2009 by government decision, our members work together to promote environmental protection, a sustainable economy and a just society.
We campaign on a number of environmental policy areas including climate change, resource efficiency, forestry and tree cover, the marine and agriculture.
Our Staff
Karen Ciesielski
Coordinator
Karen Ciesielski is the Coordinator of the Environmental Pillar. With 20 years experience in non-profit management, fundraising, communications, advocacy and campaigning, Karen works to promote the interlinked principles of environmental, social and economic sustainability by supporting Pillar members. She is also the CEO of the Irish Environmental Network.
Justin Byrne
Administrator
Justin is the Administrator for the Environmental Pillar, having joined the organisation in 2010. Previously he worked for KPMG as IT Operations Manager and prior to that in management for a division of Unigate PLC in London. He has extensive experience in planning issues. Justin is also the COO of the Irish Environmental Network.
Ciaran Brennan
Communications Officer
Ciaran is the Communications Officer for the Environmental Pillar. Ciaran has many years’ experience as a journalist and as a public relations / communications specialist. He has a keen interest in environmental protection and advocacy and has worked with Wildlife Rehabilitation Ireland, written for the ThinkorSwim climate action blog and currently is working on a small rewilding/nature restoration project on his own land.