Beautiful Blessington proves a spectacular backdrop for this year’s Walk for Water

The spectacularly beautiful setting of Blessington Lake was the backdrop for this year’s Walk for Water in the Eastern region.

The event, organised by An Taisce Green-Schools in partnership with Uisce Éireann, marked Earth Day, which this year highlights the power of individuals and communities to demand climate action and protect biodiversity.

The Walk for Water brought together over 100 students and teachers from Hartstown Community School, Castleknock Community College and Coláiste Ráithín, Bray to explore and appreciate the natural environment and local heritage.

They enjoyed views of the Blessington reservoir and a variety of landscapes, including woodlands, wetlands and fields along the 5 km walk.

The group were joined by Eoin Walsh and Suzanne Maguire from the nearby Ballymore Eustace Water Treatment Plant, Ireland’s largest water treatment facility and a critical national asset. Ballymore Eustace supplies over half of Dublin’s drinking water and serves customers across Dublin and North Kildare.

The plant is a flagship site within Uisce Éireann’s €500 million Water for Growth programme, which is a major capital investment programme to future proof water infrastructure across the Eastern Region.

Eoin and Suzanne spoke to the students about the day-to-day operations at the plant and the importance of water conservation to protect drinking water supplies, particularly during periods of dry weather or increased demand.

They explained that everyday actions can make a meaningful difference when adopted widely such as turning off the tap while brushing your teeth, taking shorter showers, only running dishwashers and washing machines when fully loaded, and avoiding hosepipes for non essential uses. Collectively, these actions help protect supplies and reduce the likelihood of restrictions during peak demand periods.

“Through our Water Ambassador programme, young people gain real insight into how our water systems work and become powerful advocates within their communities. This year alone, we’ve seen inspiring campaigns led by ambassadors, encouraging simple but meaningful actions: from shorter showers to reducing wasted boiled water and reusing clothing.

We’re proud to welcome these young people to Blessington Reservoir - one of Dublin’s most vital freshwater sources. Experiencing this landscape firsthand brings home just how valuable it is,” said Sabrina Moore, Green-Schools Programme Coordinator with An Taisce.