Funding for local groups taking climate action

Image: The Western Slopes in Knowle West courtesy of Danica Priest

Groups taking climate action or supporting nature recovery across Bristol can apply for council funding from today (9 May) to help reach the city’s climate and ecological goals.

Bristol’s One City approach has defined goals for climate and ecology recovery – and local groups which can help reach these targets could bid for financial support.

The £200,000 fund from Bristol City Council is for community action that reduces greenhouse gas emissions or makes changes that benefit wildlife in the city.

Groups can apply for up to £5,000 in the first call for applications which closes on 23 June, with a second call in the autumn where they can apply for up to £30,000.

Cabinet Member for Climate, Ecology, Waste and Energy, Cllr Kye Dudd, said: “Many community-based organisations across the city are already taking climate action and making space for nature in their neighbourhoods.

“We’ve been highlighting some with the #BristolClimateAction campaign, and we’re thrilled to now be able to provide a grant to support this inspiring and important work as part of our strategy to tackle the climate and ecological emergencies”.

“To fulfil our climate and nature recovery ambitions, we need every organisation and citizen to play their part. We’re asking businesses to sign up to the Bristol Climate Ask, and the Bristol Climate Hub has a range of ideas and suggestions for individuals, companies and communities”.

The grants are for community groups, small organisations working on a not-for-profit basis and small charities based and working in Bristol but will not support new businesses less than six months old.

Their activity must result in one of the following:

• Clear reduction in carbon dioxide emissions – for example encouraging a switch to means of transport that don’t use fossil fuels or encouraging reuse or repair activities.
• Physical changes that benefit wildlife in Bristol such as improving an area of land for wildlife or creating a new area of wildlife habitat.

Applications are open from 9 May until 23 June 2022. For full details and to apply visit the Quartet Community Foundation website.