McIlveen announces £400,000 from plastic bag charge for local environmental projects

Environment Minister Michelle McIlveen has announced funding from the plastic bag charge for local environment projects.

Environment Minister Michelle McIlveen has announced funding from the plastic bag charge for local environment projects.

An initial £400,000, sourced from the carrier bag levy, will be available for the Challenge Fund in the current financial year for not-for-profit organisations delivering projects which aim to improve the local environment and boost civic pride.

Speaking about the fund, the Minister said: “The Challenge Fund is one of a number of mechanisms by which the proceeds of the carrier bag levy are reinvested in the environment. This funding of £400,000, with potentially further support later in the year, will enable local communities, schools and voluntary organisations to undertake small-scale projects to improve the environment and deliver environmental education.

“Community groups can use the funding to enhance civic pride in their local area through, for example, tidying a local beach or neglected beauty spot or creating and enhancing areas where the public can enjoy the local environment. Schools can take advantage of the financial support to create eco-gardens and provide learning opportunities where children and young people can engage with nature.

“To date more than £4.6million has been offered from the Challenge Fund, enabling almost 600 environmental projects to be carried out, and I am pleased to be able to deliver further resources for the fund and ensure this good work in our schools and communities can continue.”

Funding from the Challenge Fund will be awarded via a competitive application process. More information and details of how to apply are on the DAERA website.

The scheme will close for applications at 12.00 noon on Friday 18 November 2016.

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