This article is based on the article titled “Third round of Urban Greening Grants for local governments” published on 3 September on the wa.gov.au website. You can read the original article here.
The Cook Labor Government has announced the third round of its highly successful Urban Greening Grants Program, with $1.6 million in funding available to local governments in the Perth and Peel regions. This initiative, managed by the Western Australian Local Government Association (WALGA), aims to enhance urban greenery by increasing tree canopy and understorey vegetation.
Supporting Urban Canopy and Biodiversity
The Urban Greening Grants Program is part of a broader effort to combat climate change and improve urban environments. By providing shade and creating habitats, the program helps cool urban areas and supports local wildlife. The latest round of funding is expected to see local governments planting trees and vegetation during winter 2025.
Addressing Tree Losses
In addition to the new grants, the State Government has committed $7.2 million to recover trees lost to the polyphagous shot-hole borer (PSHB). This funding will allow local governments and other agencies to plant up to three trees for every one lost to PSHB. Private landholders are also eligible to apply for these funds, ensuring a comprehensive approach to restoring urban greenery.
Previous Successes
The program has already allocated more than $1.7 million in previous rounds, demonstrating its effectiveness in enhancing urban canopy and understorey vegetation. These efforts are crucial for creating cooler, more liveable communities in the Perth and Peel regions.
Government and WALGA Collaboration
Environment Minister Reece Whitby highlighted the importance of increasing urban canopy as a simple yet effective way to fight climate change. He stated, “This funding will support local governments throughout Perth and Peel to create greener, leafier - and importantly, more liveable - communities.”
WALGA President Karen Chappel expressed her satisfaction with the program, noting, “WALGA is very pleased to administer the Urban Greening Grants Program, helping to increase our tree canopy and make our communities better places to live. Thank you to Minister Whitby and the Department of Water and Environment and Regulation for partnering with WALGA on the grants, and well done to all the councils that successfully applied in round two.”
Looking Ahead
The third round of the Urban Greening Grants Program represents a significant step towards a greener future for Perth and Peel. With substantial funding and strong support from both the government and local councils, this initiative promises to make our communities more sustainable and enjoyable places to live.
コメント