East Hampshire District Council Green Team is offering grants of up to £25,000 for local projects dedicated to tackling climate change.

In 2019 the council declared a climate emergency and resolved to become carbon neutral by 2050 or earlier.

The new grant, called the Community Climate Action Fund, will give local carbon-busting schemes a financial boost to get off the ground.

With £250,000 allocated over two years, the scheme is a demonstration of our commitment to fighting the effects of climate change.

It will be administered by the recently-formed Green Team, which has been set up to help the council cut carbon emissions.

Cllr Rob Mocatta, EHDC’s Portfolio Holder for Regeneration and Prosperity, said the fund will give community groups the opportunity to do what they can to save the environment.

He added: “We all have to make changes if we are going to make a difference to climate change.

“At EHDC we are committed to reducing our own carbon footprint and I know that the same determination can also be seen in our communities.

“That’s why we have launched this fantastic grant scheme to give local people the financial support they might need to make their environmental project a reality.

“So, whether you are setting up a community garden, teaching young people about biodiversity or reducing the carbon footprint of your village hall a Community Climate Action Fund grant could be perfect for you.”

Projects must engage with the wider community, support carbon reduction in East Hampshire, and support adaptions and behaviour change in response to climate issues.

Deadline to apply is Wednesday, February 22.

For details visit the website at www.easthants.gov.uk/climate-action-fund