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We are excited to announce a unique initiative offering 100 free rainwater planters exclusively to residents of Ringsend and Irishtown, Co. Dublin.

  • Receive a specialised free rainwater planter worth €800+ made from durable recycled composite plastic and galvanised steel (91cm long x 91cm tall x 61cm wide). *Plants not included*

  • ​​Reduce pressure on local sewage systems by utilising storm rainwater and consequently reduce pollution of our waterways.

  • Enhance your connection to nature and gain an opportunity for gardening and mindfulness.

  • Create natural habitats and attract pollinators & biodiversity and brighten hard urban landscapes with self-sustainable greenery.

  • Contribute to research on rainwater retention planters as a water management nature-based solution.

  • Take part in raising awareness of the importance of nature-based methods to increase resilience to the changing climate.

The goal:

100 planters installed

We're HERE

Image by Max

Apply Today

Do you own the property?

I agree to the terms above.

What can I expect as a participant?

You will receive a 3 foot/91.44cm long planter worth €800+ including soil, sand and gravel. A dedicated team will safely install it and connect it to your downpipe in your garden. You will also contribute to a research project, play a part in creating green & biodiverse spaces and improving water management in Ringsend & Irishtown.

To take part, please fill out this application form. A member of our team get in touch with follow up questions or to arrange an in-person consultation, where the space and downpipe will be measured. If the site passes the suitability criteria, a dedicated professional team will install the planter and modify the downpipe to divert rainwater into the planter. You will receive a booklet with more details about how the planter works, a list of recommended plants and maintenance instructions. Please note that plants are not included with the planter. 

  • Who can apply?
    Residents of Ringsend or Irishtown with access to: A garden or other outdoor space. A plastic downpipe used to channel rainwater from your roof (unfortunately we cannot modify cast iron downpipes)
  • What do I have to do?
    Please fill out the application form and share a bit about your space. Understand that certain criteria must be met (like space, drainage, and access). Arrange and partake in a short in-person consultation to make sure the planter will work in your space. Be available on the agreed delivery/installation date – unfortunately, we cannot reschedule once a date is confirmed. Please purchase your own plants using our recommended list of plants. Please inform us if you are selling or renting your property, so we have an opportunity to discuss the benefit of the planter with the next tenants. Participate in occasional community events or friendly competitions (optional but fun!). Be patient as this is a community project. Our small team is working hard to get to everyone.
  • What do I get for free?
    If your application and consultation has a positive outcome, you'll receive: A free installation of a fully functioning rainwater planter valued at over €800. It's going to be made out of grey recycled composite plastic and galvanised steel. It will measure approx. 91cm long x 91cm high x 61cm wide. A greener, more biodiverse urban space A simple way to help manage rainwater and reduce local flooding A chance to be part of an exciting research project helping shape sustainable cities A booklet with guidance, plant ideas, and maintenance tips And most importantly – a chance to contribute to something positive and community-focused in Ringsend & Irishtown
  • Who makes the planters?
    The social enterprise Pace manufactures the planters. They are made from a recycled composite plastic and supported within a galvanized and powder coated steel frame. The planters are weather resistant and long-lasting.
  • Why is the sewer system problematic?
    Ringsend has a combined sewer system, like many other places in Ireland. This means wastewater and stormwater go into one pipe system to be treated together. As storm events increase in intensity and frequency, the collecting systems are put under stress, and lead to overflow of diluted wastewater into our rivers and the sea. The problem is amplified by increased use of impermeable surfaces over gardens and driveways, and lack of nature in urban spaces.
  • What does the planter do?
    Rainwater retention planters are a beautiful solution to urban water problems. The principle of a rain retention planter is to slow and temporarily store rainwater before it enters our drains, preventing the likelihood of surface-level flooding and pollution of the sea with wastewater. This is done by channeling water from a downpipe (a pipe which collects water from the roof), into a planter before entering the drain. This system allows biodiversity to flourish with positive benefits for our waterways, people and wildlife.
  • What does the installation involve?
    After the planter is delivered, a trained person will fill the planter with layered drainage (sand, soil and gravel) and modify the downpipe to divert rainwater into the planter. This process is safe, tidy, and carried out by trained professionals.
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