The first fund to finance environmental projects by public entities and NGOs, has been announced.

This new fund by the Environment & Resources Authority (ERA) will be financing projects, programmes, and schemes with the aim of environmental protection and improving the quality of life in our islands.

Launched by Minister for the Environment, Climate Change and Planning Aaron Farrugia and ERA CEO Michelle Piccinino, the Minister explained that this multi-million fund will kick off with an initial investment of half a million in the first scheme titled Better Environment in Our Local Urban Spaces (BELLUS).

The BELLUS call will be supporting environmental projects tailored towards protecting, restoring, and improving the environment. It is open to public entities, including local councils, voluntary organisations, and educational institutions, the Minister said.

He went on to say that the projects must include actions that are tailored towards benefiting the environment whilst relating to the following themes:

Green and Blue infrastructure – Afforestation and environmental restoration – Improving the local environment, including greening urban areas and quality of the countryside – Biodiversity and nature protection – Initiatives for conservation and restoration of sensitive zones near urban zones

Minister Farrugia concluded by saying that, “we are continuing to invest in our environment, our well-being and the quality of life of all families on our islands. Our country continues to face a number of challenges, including environmental ones – which is why the need for innovative, sustainable, and green projects are more important than ever.”

“ERA will ensure the relevant implementation, promoting synergy to work hand in hand with local councils, schools, various public entities, and NGOs. This investment will bridge the gaps to enhance biodiversity and wellbeing,” stated ERA CEO Michelle Piccinino.

The BELLUS scheme will open from the 1st July until the 30th of September. More information can be obtained by email funding.era@era.org.mt or era.org.mt

Photo by Alain Salvary

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