Caring for the environment, Climate change, Sustainability, Sustainable living  |  Yesterday

Share this story

The Sustainability Fund is open now for applications for projects that help meet the Christchurch City Council’s climate change objective and targets.

The Fund is open to community organisations, schools, social enterprises and businesses for projects that meet the Council’s targets and eligibility criteria.

The key objectives of the Fund are to meet the challenge of climate change through every means available, to help our community understand and prepare for the ongoing impacts of climate change, benefit from a just transition to an innovative, low-emission economy and be guardians of our natural environment and taonga.

Last year, the Fund supported 33 community-led climate projects, including initiatives to encourage sustainable transport, restore biodiversity’s, clean waterways, control predators and reduce waste.

“The Fund attracts an incredible mix of ideas and projects, and it’s a fantastic opportunity to support these and work alongside so many committed groups and individuals,” says Head of Community Support and Partnerships John Filsell. 

“We’re excited to see what projects we can support in this next round of funding and enjoy seeing previously funded initiatives come to life in our backyard.”

Other projects that received funding last year included bush and bird restoration work in the red zone area in Morgans Valley, improving water quality at Te Wharau stream and ultimately Lyttelton Harbour, dune restoration work and predator control at Waimairi Beach, and creating marine sustainability workshops at community libraries.

“By backing initiatives like these through the Sustainability Fund we’re able to help turn ideas into real impact for our community and environment,” Mr Filsell says.

“We’re really keen to hear from projects that are collaborative and foster ongoing partnerships, can demonstrate long term and community wide benefits, are innovative and explore new opportunities, and are equitable and inclusive.”

Applications to the Sustainability Fund close on 23 January 2026.

Please read the guidance and funding eligibility requirements before applying.

For more information and to apply visit the Council’s website.