Oral Histories: Learning from Rathlin

Challenge

How can stories and oral histories from Rathlin Island’s past shape future environmental action? This project explores how local knowledge of sustainable living and resource use can support climate resilience and guide design thinking within a green transition ecosystem, helping to address climate change and contribute to net-zero goals.

Approach

This project focused on gathering and reviewing oral histories and folklore about life on Rathlin Island. It used material collected in recent years by the Rathlin Oral History Group, as well as older records from other archived collections. The stories highlight sustainability, self-reliance, and resourcefulness in the island’s past.

Outcomes

A printed booklet and prototype website shared themes from Rathlin’s sustainable past through stories, audio and images. A full thematic book will be published in Autumn 2025. The island narratives and stories of resilience and sustainability have been shared at civic events and festivals to engage audiences in reflecting on Rathlin’s past, drawing lessons from traditional practices to inspire greener, community-rooted behaviours. These stories are also embedded across the wider Future Island-Island project, connecting design thinking to the island’s rich heritage and grounding innovation in place- based knowledge and lived experience.

Learnings

Past innovations and practices from Rathlin Island can guide the Future- Island project and support design in a green transition ecosystem. Oral histories offer insights into sustainability and resilience, encouraging local participation. Combining traditional knowledge with modern science helps create innovative, sustainable solutions with global relevance for climate and community challenges.

Impact

This project strengthens the Future Island-Island initiative by linking Rathlin’s heritage to sustainability goals. Insights linked to the fisherman’s gansey jersey support wool projects, while repair culture stories encourage reuse. Online platforms, publications, and events raise awareness, reinforcing green transition sustainable habits and community-led environmental change.