Council unlocks almost €1m for climate action projects across Cork communities

An almost €1m funding windfall will be made available to community groups across Cork city over the coming months to help fund a range of climate action projects.

The community climate action programme fund is managed by Cork City Council and supported by the Department of Climate, Energy, and the Environment.

Last year’s allocations led to partnerships such as the collaboration between St Vincent’s GAA Club and Green Spaces for Health, which resulted in 120 trees from local community nurseries being planted on the club’s grounds.

Lord Mayor of Cork, councillor Fergal Dennehy, announced that the second round of funding will open for applications on October 28, with €860,000 in funding on offer to support a new wave of community-led climate projects across the city.

ENERGY UPGRADES

Examples of projects that can be considered include energy efficiency upgrades, solar PV installations, composting, community gardens, green walls, and tree planting.

All must be aimed at reducing carbon emissions and building climate resilience. 

Small projects can be funded up to €20,000, medium projects can be funded from €20,000 to €50,000, with large projects funded from €50,000 to €100,000. 

Funded projects run over an 18-month period, and are supported by a dedicated community climate action officer.

“Addressing climate change is one of the greatest challenges of our time, but it is also one of our greatest opportunities,” said Mr Dennehy. 

“Through this fund we can support initiatives that improve our quality of life, strengthen our communities, and create a city that works for everyone. 

"These community-driven projects are already delivering real benefits — reducing greenhouse gas emissions, restoring biodiversity, and helping communities adapt.”

Applications can be made from October 28 online at corkcity.ie. Interested groups should complete an expression of interest form. For guidance, contact climateactionfund@corkcity.ie.