Community groups and organisations are being invited to apply for the latest round of SHIRE Environment Grants of up to £3,000.
The scheme aims to help projects that minimise household waste, reduce carbon emissions and improve biodiversity through new and innovative projects.
Examples of projects that could be eligible for funding include development of local community green spaces that increase biodiversity, creation of habitats, green roofs or living walls to local repair and give or take events.
One organisation that has already benefited from a grant of £2,398 is Countesthorpe Parish Council, which enabled them to install two 5000L water harvesting tanks in the village hall grounds.
The tanks collect run-off rainwater that is used by the parish council for such things as watering planters around the village, keeping the area in bloom without negatively impacting on the environment.
The rainwater is also used for cleaning vehicles and equipment, giving the parish council the opportunity to re-coup the initial installation costs through reducing their water usage.
We're really grateful to have received the support from Leicestershire County Council in supporting this project by awarding the SHIRE Environment Grant which covers 75 per cent of the installation costs of the water tanks.
“We'll be providing the county council with regular feedback on the benefits of the system which will help inform others considering carrying out a similar project.
Person:The Rev. Mick Gillespie, chairman of Countesthorpe Parish Council
The SHIRE Environment Grant enables community groups and organisations to make environmental changes, save money and simultaneously improve the lives of Leicestershire residents.
“We are incredibly proud to have supported Countesthorpe Parish Council to reduce their mains water usage while also maintaining a green and attractive village for residents to live with their planting schemes. I would encourage more groups to come forward and apply.
Person:Councillor Blake Pain, cabinet member for action on climate change
Projects must be located in Leicestershire (not including Leicester City or Rutland) and should help reduce the amount of household waste or greenhouse gas emissions within communities, improve biodiversity or support sustainable green spaces. A simplified application process is also available for smaller grants of up to £300.
The application deadline for the current round of funding is Friday, 30 October 2020.
For further information and how to apply, visit SHIRE Environment Grant or email environmentgrant@leics.gov.uk