Auckland Council Launches $1 Million Climate Action Fund for Communities

The Auckland Council has announced the launch of a new initiative, the Te Ara Urutau – Climate and Emergency Ready Fund, aimed at empowering community organizations in Tāmaki Makaurau to combat climate change. With a budget exceeding $1 million, the fund is designed to support projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance emergency preparedness, and adapt to the challenges posed by a changing climate.

This new fund consolidates existing climate-related grants into a single, streamlined process, making it easier for community groups to access financial support. Councillor Richard Hills, chair of the policy, planning, and development committee, emphasized the importance of feedback from community organizations regarding the need for a more efficient funding system. “No matter where you are on your emergency readiness or climate action journey, this fund is here to help,” Hills stated.

Funding Opportunities for Diverse Community Initiatives

The Te Ara Urutau Fund offers several funding streams through a single application process. Community organizations can apply for up to two types of funding:

1. **Emergency Readiness Funding**: This stream supports communities in preparing for natural disasters and extreme weather events, with funding requests ranging from $5,000 to $15,000.

2. **Emissions Reduction Funding**: Focused on community-led and Māori-led projects that aim to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable practices, this stream also offers funding between $5,000 and $15,000.

3. **Climate Adaptation Planning and Implementation**: This stream allows for community-led planning and action to address challenges such as flooding and drought. Funding requests can go up to $40,000, with additional resources available for implementation.

The council encourages applications from a diverse range of groups, including not-for-profit organizations, charitable and voluntary groups, mana whenua and Māori organizations, schools, and social enterprises dedicated to community welfare.

Application Timeline and Support for Communities

Applications for the Te Ara Urutau Fund will open on February 2, 2024, and will close on March 8, 2024. Funding decisions are expected to be announced by the end of May. The council aims to ensure that organizations can translate innovative ideas into tangible solutions, fostering resilience within Tāmaki Makaurau as the region confronts ongoing climate challenges.

Hills concluded, “By supporting grassroots initiatives, we can help Aucklanders take meaningful local climate action, reduce emissions, and build resilience together.” Community members interested in applying for funding can find more information, including application guidelines and assessment criteria, on the official Auckland Council website.

This initiative represents a significant investment in climate action at the community level, embodying the council’s commitment to creating a sustainable and equitable future for all residents of Tāmaki Makaurau.