Community Climate Action programme funding opens

Waterford City and County Council has announced the launch of Round 2 of the Community Climate Action Programme, a grant initiative designed to help local communities take meaningful action on climate change.

A total of €564,000 has been allocated to Waterford by the Department of Climate, Energy, and the Environment, to support eligible projects led by community groups, sports clubs, residents’ associations, and local organisations across County Waterford, with 100% capital funding available for projects.

A Council spokesperson said that through the programme, communities can apply for financial support to implement initiatives such as community energy efficiency projects, biodiversity enhancement, waste prevention, circular economy activities, nature-based solutions and sustainable transport measures.

The overall aim of the programme is to support communities to take climate action at a local level. Projects of interest would address themes such as: energy; travel; food and waste; shopping and recycling; and local climate and environmental action. Projects can include a suite of measures, not just one specific action and could be anything from retrofitting community buildings, installing bicycle parking, starting a community fridge, initiatives to promote biodiversity.

Eligible communities must be a not-for-profit, located in the operational area of Waterford City and County Council and be registered with the PPN, or connected with other collectives such as the Wheel, Tidy Towns and /or a community group with Articles of Association or a Constitution, that hold an AGM, and for which approved minutes are available.

Applications open for the Community Climate Action Programme from October 22 to December 17.

Susan Lee, Community Climate Action Officer, Waterford City and County Council said: “Waterford community groups are doing truly great and inspiring work to protect the climate. The last round of funding saw some great initiatives. For example, over 120kW of solar pv was installed on community buildings, increased bike parking facilities, lighting upgrades, water refilling stations, sport reuse kits, community gardens and rainwater planters were added to community facilities.” 

“For many groups, their work would not be possible without this funding and these projects have benefits beyond just the climate. Many of the energy upgrades have led to financial savings and made the community buildings more comfortable for users," she said.

"Community gardens have increased green spaces and created a place for communities to come together.” 

 Upcoming events to inform about the application process and get practical guidance on eligibility and project ideas include an online webinar on Thursday, October 23, from 1pm to 1.45pm. This lunchtime session will provide an overview of the Community Climate Action Programme and discuss the best ways to plan your project and application. Drop-in sessions will also take place at Tramore Library on Wednesday, October 29, from 10.30am to 1pm, and at Dungarvan Library on Thursday, October 30, from 1.30pm to 3.30pm.

For further details on the programme and how to apply visit the Waterford City and County Council website at https://waterfordcouncil.ie/communityclimateactionprogramme/ or email climateaction@waterfordcouncil.ie 

(Funded under the Local Democracy Scheme)