2024-02-20
The 2024 Community Zero Emissions Grants program is now open for applications from not-for-profit community groups and local Canberrans to take action on climate change and help reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the ACT.
Minister for Water, Energy and Emissions Reduction, Shane Rattenbury MLA said projects previously funded through this grant program have increased community resilience to the impacts of climate change.
“Funding of up to $50,000 per single application and up to $75,000 per joint application is available under the Community Zero Emissions Grants Program. I strongly encourage eligible Canberrans to apply if they want to help us reach our goal of net zero emissions by 2045,” Minister Rattenbury said.
“We have supported 35 different projects since the program began in 2017. Projects funded last year included a climate resilience and adaptation education program, a campaign to help improve health outcomes for people impacted by poor air quality, a college-based paddock-to-plate food production program, an onsite mulcher to increase composting production at a local community farm garden, and establishing a worm farm alongside educational workshops on the benefits of vermicomposting.
“Everyone has a responsibility to take care of our planet, and I encourage all community organisations to think of innovative ways to inspire and help all Canberrans take climate action now and in the future.
“The passion and enthusiasm within the ACT community builds unique opportunities to reduce emissions in creative ways. I look forward to seeing the next round of inspiring projects from our Canberra community,” said Minister Rattenbury.
Applications close at 5pm on 4 April 2024.
Apply for a grant by visiting the Everyday Climate Choices website.
Quote attributable to Lucaya Rich, The Food Co-Operative Shop Chairperson:
The Community Zero Emissions Grant program from the ACT Government has enabled us to convert from an expensive high emissions gas kitchen to a cheaper zero emissions electric kitchen.
Our army of kitchen helpers are now safer, our bills are cheaper and our environmental footprint is smaller - a real win. Through the grant we've also been able to deliver a series of Low Waste Cooking Workshops - teaching our local community practical tips on how to save some of the 7.6 million tonnes of food thrown out by Australian's each year.