An ambitious £1.2 million project has been announced by The National Lottery Community Fund that will help tackle climate change through a network of football clubs becoming more sustainable and leading initiatives in communities across Northern Ireland.
Goals for Climate is being run by Groundwork NI working in partnership with the Irish Football Association’s Foundation and Queen’s University Belfast.
Mark Johnston, Director at Groundwork NI, explained: “A Climate Champion Network will support club members, families and communities to create change.
“Each club will develop their own local climate action plans, including things like reducing single use plastic, planting trees to prevent flooding and helping their community be more prepared for extreme weather conditions.
“This project is so important as climate change is affecting everyone. We are excited to be working with the Irish FA Foundation and Queen’s University as together we will help communities make a real impact.”
The project is now asking Northern Ireland-based grassroots football clubs, large and small, to come forward to take part.
Keith Gibson, Football for All Manager at the Irish FA Foundation, said: “This initiative is a fantastic opportunity for clubs to dive into environmental conservation, enhancing their facilities and encouraging working together and relationship building across communities.
“The potential impact is significant as they will become champions of environmental change, inspiring others to follow.
“I would encourage local clubs to get in touch as together we can pave the way for a greener, more sustainable future for football and our communities."
The funding comes from The National Lottery Community Fund’s UK-wide Climate Action Fund, which offers multi-year grants from £500,000 and is currently open for applications from groups working in partnership that can link climate action to everyday lives.
Kate Beggs, Northern Ireland Director of The National Lottery, said: “Goals for Climate is a great example of communities supporting the environment and creating change in their local area. We look forward to seeing what will be achieved over the coming months and years through this project.
“The environment is a consideration in all our funding as part of our strategy to 2030. We continue to use learning and engage with the environmental sector and communities on future plans.”
To get involved or for more details on Goals for Climate contact Groundwork NI at info@groundworkni.co.uk or phone 028 9074 9494.
Image: Groundwork NI director Mark Johnston (centre) joined Gareth Allen and Keith Gibson from the Irish FA Foundation at the launch of the Goals for Climate initiative.
