MINISTER ANDERSON ANNOUNCES $2,1 MILLION FOR ENVIRONMENTAL PROJECTS

ST. JOHN’S, February 11, 2002 - Environment Minister David Anderson today announced $2.1 million in funding for 65 environmental projects in communities across Canada. In Atlantic Canada, four environmental projects were approved for a total commitment of $181,869. Two of the projects will be conducted in Newfoundland and Labrador.

"These community-driven projects will have a direct impact on air and water quality, greenhouse gas emissions and the protection of natural spaces and species at the local level", said Minister Anderson. "This funding is in keeping with the Government of Canada’s commitment to encourage and support community action to ensure a cleaner environment and the preservation of our natural legacy."

The funding comes from Environment Canada’s EcoAction Community Funding Program, an initiative designed to help locally-based, non-profit organizations undertake environmental projects.

The two projects to receive funding in Newfoundland and Labrador are:

1. The Conservation Corps of Newfoundland and Labrador to conduct a home oil tank inspection program in communities across the province ($50,000).
2. The Torbay Environment and Trails Committee to conduct a wetland conservation project in Torbay ($47,086).

To be eligible for EcoAction funding, projects must result in positive, measurable environmental benefits and build public awareness of priority environmental issues such as clean air, climate change, clean water and species at risk. These projects must also respond to community needs and obtain a minimum of 50 per cent in matching funding or in-kind support from other sponsors. Submission deadlines for the program are February 1st and October 1st of each year.

More information on the EcoAction Community Funding Program can be found at: http://www.ec.gc.ca/ecoaction

For more information, please contact:
Ted Jennex
EcoAction Community Funding Program
Environment Canada
(902) 426-7696