Enviro grants encourage a cleaner, greener Western Downs

The Western Downs is headed for a cleaner, greener future with a fresh round of funding available to community groups to deliver projects promoting environmental sustainability across the region.

Applications are now open for the Recycle Market Enviro Grants Program which is delivered in partnership with Council’s waste and recycling contractor IOLAR Operational Services.

Council Spokesperson for Planning and Environment Andrew Smith said the Grants Program was a common-sense initiative which turned recycled goods into vibrant community projects.

“The Enviro Grants Program is made possible thanks to our residents recycling, reusing and upcycling second-hand goods at our Recycling Market Shops at Dalby, Chinchilla, and Miles Waste and Recycling Centres,” Cr Smith said.

“Forty percent of the money raised at our tip shops is reinvested into the Program which aims to help community groups deliver environmental initiatives in their local towns.

“This just a small way for Council, and our contractor IOLAR Operational Services to recognise the hard work of many community groups, as well as help them bring their ideas to life.

“We’ve seen great success in the past, with previous recipients delivering a number of initiatives including water tanks to capture and reuse water, feral animal monitoring equipment, implementation of waste education programs in schools and facility upgrades to help benefit the environment.

“The Grants Program also gives residents the chance to head outdoors and be a part of their local community while also doing something good for the environment, which is a win-win.”

The Recycle Market Enviro Grants are allocated to projects that contribute to the following criteria: • Environmental sustainability and/or conservation projects; • Educational initiatives in waste and recycling; • Community health and well-being assets; • Social outlets for members of the community Applications close on 31 March, 2020. For more information or to apply for a Recycle Market Enviro Grant, visit Council’s website via www.wdrc.qld.gov.au or phone 1300 COUNCIL (268 624).

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