West Mayo woman named Environmental Leader of the Year

Westport woman Maura Kiely, Chief Executive Officer of Leave No Trace Ireland, has been awarded Environmental Leader of the Year by The All Island Business Foundation at a ceremony held at Croke Park.

The annual All Island Business Foundation Awards brought together hundreds of attendees to celebrate purpose-led organisations from across Ireland just before Christmas.

Among the honourees, Kiely stood out for her leadership in advancing environmental stewardship and expanding the reach of outdoor conservation efforts throughout the country.

The recognition highlights Kiely's work in transforming Leave No Trace Ireland into a movement that balances outdoor recreation with environmental preservation. Under her leadership, the organisation has forged strategic partnerships and mobilised communities across the island to become active environmental stewards.

"This recognition is huge for our whole team, our partners, and everyone who has supported us along the way," the organisation shared in response to the award. "Not because of the accolade itself, but because it amplifies the mission we wake up for every single day: protecting our natural spaces and inspiring others to do the same."

Leave No Trace Ireland operates on the principle that outdoor spaces can be enjoyed responsibly while being preserved for future generations. The organisation's expanded reach under Kiely's guidance has made it a leading voice in Irish environmental conservation.

The All Island Business Foundation, which recognises leaders championing conservation through purpose-driven business models, praised the selection as "such a special recognition," noting that it celebrates environmental leadership rooted in real action and long-term impact.

As 2025 draws to a close, Leave No Trace Ireland's team expressed gratitude for the recognition while reaffirming their commitment to ongoing conservation work across Ireland's trails and natural spaces.