An Taisce’s Clean Coasts Programme hosted the 2025 Ocean Hero Awards Ceremony at the Gibson Hotel, Dublin, celebrating and giving thanks to the dedicated groups, individuals, communities, and businesses who have gone above and beyond to protect Ireland’s coastline and marine environment this year. Held on International Volunteer Day, the awards provided a chance to reflect on the remarkable commitment and passion of those working to safeguard our coastal heritage.

Every year, the Ocean Hero Awards recognise the invaluable contribution and dedication of Clean Coasts volunteers and groups across the country. Established in 2006 as the 'Clean Coasts Merit Awards,' the awards began with a single category, 'The Clean Coasts Group of the Year,' and have grown alongside the programme itself. By 2025, there are over 2,000 Clean Coasts groups and more than 40,000 volunteers actively caring for Ireland’s coasts.

This year saw the highest number of award categories yet, with nine distinct areas of recognition. Following hundreds of nominations, 45 groups, organisations, and individuals were shortlisted for the title of Ocean Hero. At the ceremony, the hard work, achievements, and dedication of each shortlisted nominee were celebrated, and the winners were announced, shining a spotlight on the incredible efforts being made nationwide to protect and cherish our marine environment.

These awards go to acknowledge the incredible CleanCoasts Groups across the country and their inspiring efforts to protect our shorelines and marine areas. Well done to all involved and to all of those who make a difference in their local communities!

The awards included a panel discussion and a keynote address by Secretary General of the Department of Climate, Energy & Environment, Oonagh Buckley.

For more and to see all the groups, go to Clean Coasts Ocean Hero Awards 2025 Exposure page.

🏆 Group of the Year Award:
Clean Coasts Ballynamona, Cork
Leadership Award: Katriina Bent, Tramore Tidy Towns, Waterford

🏆 Campaign Ambassador Award:
Presentation College & Tralee Tidy Towns, Kerry, for the Think Before You Flush Campaign

🏆 Youth Initiative Award (seen in banner image): 
Fanad Coastal Group with Loreto Community School Milford, Donegal, for Dune Conservation efforts

🏆 Community Action Award:
Rush Tidy Towns, Dublin, for the variety of environmental actions and activities they have held throughout the year

🏆 Leadership Award:
Katriina Bent, Tramore Eco Group, Waterford

🏆 Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion Award:
Wicklow Lions Club, Wicklow

🏆 Community Champion (Business Award):
Patricia McAteer – White Harte Bar, Rathmullan, Donegal

🏆 Nature Guardian Award:
Ballygarrett Tidy Towns, for the Cahore Little Tern Project, Wexford

🏆 Emerging Group Award:
Dooega Clean Coasts, Mayo
Special recognition award: Tomhaggard Clean Coasts Group

🏆 Special recognition award:
Tomhaggard Clean Coasts Group