ARC grants $500,000 towards environmental projects

15 December 2005

The Auckland Regional Council has awarded more than half a million dollars of environmental grants for community projects.

The ARC’s Environmental Initiatives Fund (EIF) allocated $512,381 to 135 applicants to carry out practical projects that benefit the environment.

Since the EIF was established in 1999, 480 grants worth $1.107 million have been made to community projects helping the environment.

The purpose of the fund is to encourage and assist communities to care for their local environment.

Among the projects funded this year are fencing to protect wetlands, native tree planting, a conservation plan for a heritage building, a range of school environmental education projects and an environmental awareness programme for new migrants.

This year’s funding is up from $117,479 granted in the 2004 funding round. The average grant was $3795, compared to $1895 in 2004

ARC Environmental Management Committee Chair Dianne Glenn says the calibre of applications for funding was impressive.

“It is encouraging to know there are so many people who are keen to protect and enhance Auckland’s environment. A number of groups are also involved in long-term projects to help their local environment.

”These projects will make a real difference to pockets of the environment around the whole region.

“All successful applicants will receive advice and support from ARC staff to make sure the projects succeed.”

Amongst the funding was $122,606 from the Honda Tree Fund, which allocates funding to provide 10 native trees for every new Honda sold. For more information see www.honda.co.nz.

Transpower provided $49,790 to build the capacity of community groups involved in environmental enhancement projects. See www.transpower.co.nz for more information.

ENDS

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