The Council Chamber was alight with inspiration and dedication as community leaders and climate enthusiasts gathered for the Community Climate Action Fund project workshop.
Hosted by the passionate duo, Aoife Munn, a community activator and environmentalist, and Dr. Karen Moore, Laois Community Climate Action Officer, the event marked the much-anticipated launch of the Community Climate Action Fund for Laois.
This initiative aligns with the overarching aim of the national Community Climate Action Programme – to empower communities to actively contribute to national climate and energy targets and foster sustainable, resilient communities across County Laois.
At the project workshop, representatives from various community groups across County Laois eagerly engaged in discussions and shared ideas for potential community projects.
The event was a testament to the collective commitment towards addressing the challenges of climate change at a grassroots level in Laois.
The highlight of the evening was the unveiling of the Community Climate Action Fund by Laois County Council.
With an allocation of €465,000 for Laois, this fund aims to foster the development of sustainable, low-carbon communities. Successful applicants will receive 100% funding to bring their ideas to fruition within an 18-month timeframe.
Dr. Karen Moore emphasised the importance of community-led initiatives, stating: “Community action is so important in steering Laois towards sustainability.
“This funding empowers groups to spearhead climate-focused projects within their communities, making a tangible impact at the local level.”
The Fund invites project proposals addressing five themes, including community energy, sustainable travel, food and waste, circular economy initiatives, and local climate and environmental actions.
The diversity of themes encourages a holistic approach to combatting climate change.
Applications open on Wednesday, December 13 and will continue until March 6, 2024.
For further information on the Laois Community Climate Action Fund, for guidance on projects and the application process, please visit https://laois.ie/about-the-council/climate-action/community-climate-action-fund/) or contact Laois Community Climate Action Officer, Karen Moore, at kmoore@laoiscoco.ie.
To participate in the public consultation and contribute to Laois’ Climate Action Plan (open until December 14th), please visit (https://consult.laois.ie/).
Photo: Michael Scully .
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