Speakers

Blátnáid Gallagher MSc is founder of the pioneering Galway Wool Co-op ,the first initiative of its kind in Ireland,created to unlock the untapped potential of Irish wool as a high-value bio-based material and strengthen the role of rural communities in the emerging bioeconomy. Established following her Master’s in Agricultural Innovation at University of Galway, the Co-op was born from frustration at the increasing waste of Irish wool across Ireland and Europe, despite its enormous environmental and economic value.

Under Blátnáid’s leadership, the Co-op is transforming wool from Ireland’s native sheep breed called The Galway, into a catalyst for rural innovation. Connecting primary producers with the bioeconomy sector and creating new circular market opportunities. The Co-op has received several national awards and, in 2024, was shortlisted for the prestigious EU ARIA Awards for its contribution to the sustainable fabric of rural communities.

A passionate advocate for fair remuneration for wool growers, Blátnáid champions wool as a world-class bio-fibre: naturally renewable, fire-retardant, biodegradable, and abundantly available in Ireland. Recently invited to address the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Agriculture and to speak at the World Wool Forum in Rome, she is also a nominee to the EU CAP Network Wool Focus Group 57, helping shape the future of sustainable bio-based materials in Europe