The “Circus of Climate Horrors” is
Ireland’s newest Climate Change outreach project. Our unique experience of fun
games also provides a chance to chat with real climate scientists. Built and
run by researchers at the Irish Climate Analysis and Research Units (ICARUS)
Institute within the Geography Department, the Circus engages audiences with
relevant, contemporary issues surrounding rising greenhouse gases,
sustainability, and future climate action through a series of interactive games
and activities for all ages. Within weeks of debuting at Glastonbury in June 2023 (which was a resounding success!) the Circus had invitations from Science Foundation
Ireland to attend the Mind Fields area at Electric Picnic 2023, and the
International Geographical Conference in 2024.
To ensure the longevity of the Circus and to
give postgraduate students hands on experience of participating in climate
outreach, we ran a workshop for the Climate Change Masters class and PhD
students from ICARUS. The students then expertly ran the exhibit during
Research Week 2023. The ‘Great Wall of Atmospheres’, proved to be a particular
draw with many returning to either get on the leader board, or trying to beat
their previous time! On a more serious note, by highlighting some of the impacts of climate change, the
circus provided our postgraduate
students with an opportunity to engage with hundreds of Maynooth University
students and staff over the busy four day period. Many of whom might rarely get
to talk about climate change with scientists. It was fascinating to hear their understanding
and awareness about these important issues. These insights were highlighted by
their written contributions to our climate wishes/pledges board which contains
hundreds of inspiring individual and collective actions to deal with climate
change.
The circus is taking a break for the rest of the year so we
can update the stall… keep an eye out on socials @climate_circus , Circus for Climate Horrors for new and
innovative designs coming soon!
