Communities across the West of England are set to benefit from expanded support for locally led climate and nature initiatives, as six new organisations join the Community Climate & Nature Action Project. Over the next two years, residents in Bath & North East Somerset, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire will be supported to design and deliver practical projects that protect the environment, enhance biodiversity, and improve health and wellbeing at a local level.
Each organisation will receive £30,000 in funding, alongside workshops, peer mentoring and specialist resources to co-create climate and nature action plans with their communities. The six new partners—Bath MIND, Clevedon YMCA, Hambrook Sports Club, Pill Community Foundation, South Gloucestershire Race Equality Network and Twerton & Whiteway Community Network—bring a diverse mix of experience, ranging from mental health and youth services to sports and equalities advocacy. They join 17 Bristol-based community groups that have participated in the programme over the past five years.
The initiative has already demonstrated measurable impact, contributing to local job creation, the development and improvement of green spaces, increased wildlife, youth skills training, waste reduction, and carbon savings equivalent to planting more than 3,000 trees or heating over 150 homes for a year. By building on existing community networks and assets, the project strengthens resilience and empowers residents to lead environmental action that reflects local priorities.
The programme is coordinated by Bristol Climate & Nature Partnership and funded through the Climate Action Fund by The National Lottery Community Fund. It is delivered in partnership with organisations including Centre for Sustainable Energy, Bristol City Council, Bath & North East Somerset Council, North Somerset Council, South Gloucestershire Council, University of the West of England and West of England Combined Authority. A wider network of climate and community engagement experts will provide additional guidance to ensure projects are impactful and sustainable.
Regional leaders have welcomed the expansion, highlighting the importance of community-driven solutions in tackling pollution, strengthening neighbourhood pride, and investing in greener local environments. By placing local knowledge and leadership at the heart of climate action, the project aims to build a healthier, fairer and more environmentally resilient West of England.
