Time is running out for local eco-groups and residents to apply for Waste Action Grants from The City of Edinburgh Council.

The Waste Action Grant Programme can provide grant funding of up to £2,500 for local projects that seek to reduce, reuse and recycle waste in the city. The deadline for applications is 7 February 2011.

The pioneering Waste Action Grant Programme aims to encourage local householders, community groups, youth groups and schools to join in by using the Council’s recycling services and participate in new initiatives that are already being run across the city.

So far, the funding has successfully funded over 60 waste projects across the city.

Councillor Robert Aldridge, Environmental Leader, said: “Edinburgh residents have a key role to play in increasing the recycling rate and reducing the amount of waste going to landfill. We would encourage local groups to come forward and make an application for the next round of grants, which encourage the wider community to reduce, reuse and recycle their waste.”

Last time round, eight local projects were given funding. Gowrie Care, a Bruntsfield homeless project received over £2,000 to set up a ‘reusable shop’ where unwanted clothes are recycled for homeless people who need an outfit for a wedding, funeral or job interview. While, the Pilton Equalities Project, received £1,000 to increase composting capacity at a community garden used by older people.

There is a range of funding available from smaller grants of £50-£200 to larger grants of £500- £2500. The applications are open to Edinburgh residents, schools, church groups and community initiatives that seek to reduce, reuse and recycle waste in local projects.

For more information or to register your interest in the grant programme please contact the waste education officer on 0131 469 5070 or email wasteaction@edinburgh.gov.uk or download the application form

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