Community invited to choose environmental projects across Moray to support via Just Transition Participatory Budgeting
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FIVE local environmental projects are looking for the community's support for vital finance.
Forres Friends of Woods and Fields, Moray Carshare, Morayvia, St John's Episcopal Church and Wild Things! are in the running for up to £50,000 from the Scottish Government via Just Transition Participatory Budgeting (JTPB).
Sandra Maclennan is a member of the fund’s administration team, Money for Moray.
She said: "JTPB has two priorities: social enhancement and reducing carbon.
"Successful applicants aiming to make Moray a greener region will be informed and asked to sign letter of agreement. Payments will then be made and money to be spent by end March 24."
The Scottish Government is aiming for a 75 per cent reduction in harmful emissions including carbon dioxide by 2030 and 100 per cent reduction by 2045. JTPB is funding projects that match local needs and priorities.
Mrs Maclennan added: "If you live, work or access services in Moray you can vote for which green projects you think should receive funding.
"Find out about them via https://www.jtpbfund.scot/moray and, when you are ready, click the 'vote now' button to be taken to the online voting form.
"You must enter a valid postcode and choose your top 10 projects in order to take part in the public vote."
Woodland management charity Forres Friends of Woods and Fields are looking for £23k to build a social hub in their community garden at Chapleton.
A spokesperson explained: "This will be a welcoming and dry space for the community to gather, exchange, learn and grow. It will also provide essential facilities including a solar-powered potting shed, a compost loo, and a tool shed."
Car club Findhorn-based Moray Carshare needs £18,437 for a new vehicle.
A spokesperson said: "Having successfully served five areas of Moray over the last 16 years, we are seeking to purchase a hybrid car to test demand in new areas, starting in Elgin.
"Where there is clear demand, we would aim to establish a new permanent base for a vehicle."
Kinloss aviation museum Morayvia requires £50k to make its buildings more energy efficient.
A spokesperson said: "Embracing solar power lowers expenses, enabling program growth. Longer hours enhance community services, education, and events. Improved volunteer conditions and eco-friendly efforts magnify impact. Strong financial support ensures lasting growth, positioning us as a sustainability leader, fostering community enrichment."
St John's Episcopal Church on Victoria Road needs £2678 for a robot mower.
A spokesperson explained: "We would like to purchase a robot mower and docking station in order that the large garden area to the back of the church is able to be used regularly by the local nursery and other groups in the community - and to reduce our carbon footprint."
Finally, Findhorn-based environmental education charity Wild Things! needs £29,995 for an electric support vehicle.
A spokesperson said: "We seek to purchase an electric nine-seater minibus, enabling us to reduce our carbon footprint whilst supporting the delivery of environmental activity programmes.
"Our programmes enable participants to appreciate, understand and protect the natural environment, and in doing so, gain valuable new skills, qualifications and transformative life experiences."
Voting closes at 5pm on Friday, October 13. See www.jtpbfund.scot for more information.
