Wicklow County Council is excited to announce a new round of funding for local climate and biodiversity projects. This time, they are offering €646,000 through the Community Climate Action Programme. The goal? To help community groups, charities, and non-profits make a positive impact in their areas.
Starting October 20, 2025, groups can apply for grants of up to €100,000 for projects focused on reducing carbon emissions and promoting biodiversity. Interest in these grants has grown after the first round saw 19 projects successfully implemented across Wicklow. These included things like solar panels, energy-efficient upgrades, and bike facilities—all aimed at helping the community go green.
Cllr. Melanie Corrigan highlighted the program’s success, stating it showcases the power of community efforts. She emphasized that these initiatives not only lower energy costs but also help in making Wicklow a greener place for future generations. “It’s inspiring to see local people take charge of their environmental future,” Corrigan said.
Emer O’Gorman, Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council, also praised this collaborative effort between the Council and the government. “Grassroots projects are essential for Ireland’s climate goals. This funding helps bring about real change, whether it’s through saving energy, supporting local wildlife, or encouraging eco-friendly travel,” she noted.
Theresa O’Brien, the Director of Services, stressed the importance of guidance for applicants. She mentioned that the Community Climate Action Officer will be on hand to help groups throughout the application process. This support aims to ensure projects are not just envisioned but are also practical and effective.
This funding is categorized into five themes:
- Community Energy
- Travel
- Food and Waste
- Shopping and Recycling
- Local Climate and Environmental Action
Depending on the scale, projects can receive funding as follows: small projects may get up to €20,000, medium-sized projects can earn between €20,000 and €50,000, and large projects can secure up to €100,000. Successful projects will have an 18-month run.
The enthusiasm for these types of initiatives aligns with a broader trend seen across Ireland and globally. Recent surveys indicate that more and more people are eager to engage in environmental action. For instance, a study published in 2023 showed that 74% of people now view climate action as essential, up from 62% just five years ago.
Applications for this round of funding will be open until December 15, 2025. Interested groups can reach out to the Climate Action Team at ccap@wicklowcoco.ie.
For more details, check out the full information on the Wicklow County Council website.
This initiative represents an exciting opportunity for communities in Wicklow to implement real changes and foster a sustainable future.
