01/09/2026
Water is essential to life and central to Ireland’s agriculture, biodiversity, industry, energy systems, and daily living. Despite Ireland’s extensive water resources, communities are increasingly experiencing flooding, drought, pollution, and emerging issues such as microplastics.
During 2026 (November 8th-15th), MU’s Futures Hub, in collaboration with Maynooth Green Campus Group , will lead H2O: Humanity 2.0: Reimagining Water Futures for Society, Science & Sustainability.
Inspired by the national theme ‘Water – from molecule to ocean,’ the initiative will bring together MU Women in STEM researchers, schools, policymakers, community organisations and the public to examine how water shapes our environment, health and communities.
Through workshops, science cafés, visual storytelling, demonstrations and dialogue sessions, participants will explore topics including sustainable energy, hydrogen from water, climate impacts, flooding and drought, water quality and public health, biodiversity, and community‑led environmental action.
The project aims to build public understanding of water‑related challenges, support informed community engagement and strengthen connections between communities, researchers and local policymakers.
📸 Pictured at the National Science Week launch are MU Futures Hub Manager Noreen Lacey, Dr James Carolan (Chair of Green Campus/Dept of Biology), Mary Morrissey (Climate Action Officer at Kildare County Council ) and Prof Rachel Msetfi (MU’s VP Research & Innovation).
Photo credit: Damien Eagers.
