photo:extra.ie 
Trócaire has defended its commitment to a low carbon footprint after it came in for criticism for the volume of paper used for their Lenten campaign.
Fr Ted Sheehan of Glounthane Parish in Cork has said he has complained to the charity every year for the last four years – asking them to reduce the amount of paper they send out. “Last year I had to put about 300 envelopes with all the paraphernalia inside them into recycling,” he said.
Trócaire works in particular with people in developing countries who are “doing the least to cause climate change are suffering its effects the most”. They have said: “Last year Trócaire reduced our overall carbon footprint by 9%.”
They also said they have reduced their print output by 10% and regularly contact parishes in an effort to minimise waste.
Environment
Fr Ted has said he feels they are not communicating well enough with parish priests who support them every year. “Just to think before sending out such a volume of paper, especially with regard to the environment at the moment.”
For Lent each year Trócaire also produces educational resources for schools and parishes. This year many of these have been moved to online in an effort toward a more sustainable approach to Lent.
“Unfortunately, errors can occur in such a large nationwide campaign however we are making every effort to reduce the carbon footprint of the organisation and welcome any feedback which will further this work,” said the Church agency.
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