Member for Davidson, Jonathan O'Dea is encouraging local community groups, schools, Aboriginal organisations and state and local government organisations to apply for $1.72 million in grants on offer for environmental projects.
Mr O'Dea said the latest round of Environmental Trust funding made available by Environment Minister Robyn Parker would support projects under the Protecting our Places, Environmental Education, Eco Schools and Food Gardens in Schools programs.
“These programs ensure a broad benefit by providing funding at the community, local and state government level. It’s about communities identifying an environmental issue and working together to improve the situation and build sustainability,” Mr O'Dea said.
“I am delighted that the Minister has added a new program for this round of funding, offering for the first time the Food Gardens in Schools program.”
Ms Parker said Food Gardens in Schools has been introduced in recognition of an exciting trend that has been developing over the last few years.
“Schools have been increasingly motivated to grow their own vegetables and have been seeking funds towards developing this really simple way of demonstrating sustainable produce. We are again offering help with the grant application process through the Trust.”
This round of Environmental Trust grants include:
- Grants totalling $1 million under the Environmental Education program to support educational projects that develop the community’s knowledge of, skills in and commitment to protecting the environment and promoting sustainable behaviour.
- 60 grants of $2,500 each under the Eco Schools program, which aims to support NSW schools to develop best practice in environmental education
- 20 grants of $3,500 each under the new Food Gardens in Schools program.
- Grants totalling $500,000 under the Protecting our Places program which aims to protect land that is culturally significant to Aboriginal people and to support education projects about the environment and its importance in Aboriginal life.
More information about the programs can be found on the web at www.environmentaltrust.nsw.gov.au or by phoning the Trust on (02) 8837 6093.
