Football clubs kick off climate action with £1.2m National Lottery funding
An ambitious £1.2m 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.
An ambitious £1.2m 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 Foundation and Queens University.
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 IFA Foundation and Queens University, as together we will help communities make a real impact.”
The project is now asking local grass roots clubs, large and small, to come forward to take part.
Keith Gibson, Football for All Manager, 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 sector and communities on future plans.”
To get involved or for more details on Goals for Climate please contact Groundwork NI, info@groundworkni.co.uk or 028 9074 9494.