Local Environmental Action Fund (LEAF)
The Local Environmental Action Fund (LEAF) is designed to support community and voluntary groups in undertaking climate action, biodiversity and environmental enhancement projects.
For any queries relating to the LEAF Grant, eligibility or the application process, please contact
Ella Ryan: eryan@waterfordcouncil.ie
LEAF Information Session Recording
Application and Guidance Documents
About the Fund
The fund is administered locally by Waterford City & County Council and supports community climate action, biodiversity and environmental improvement projects.
Further information, including application details and eligibility criteria, is available on the
Waterford City & County Council Grants Page.
Who Can Apply?
The lead applicant must be one of the following:
- Tidy Towns committees
- Voluntary community groups undertaking similar environmental activities, such as Residents’ Associations, Biodiversity Groups, Eco Groups, Schools or Men’s Sheds
Additional Requirements
- Groups must be registered with Waterford Public Participation Network (PPN).
- Applications must include collaboration with at least one other community stakeholder group, such as a local school, youth club, sports club, Men’s Shed or community organisation.
You can check the list of groups with membership and governance requirements up to date here:
List of Members.
If your group is not on the list, please contact Walter at
wcullinan@waterfordcouncil.ie.
Examples of Eligible Projects
- A Tidy Towns committee working with a youth club or Women’s/Men’s Shed to run repair workshops.
- A Residents’ Association working with a local sports club to run a reuse initiative.
- A Residents’ Association collaborating with a local Lions Club to plant trees.
Suitable Project Themes
- Biodiversity conservation and pollinator-friendly spaces
- Tree planting and urban greening
- Renewable energy projects for community buildings
- Waste reduction and recycling initiatives
- Water conservation projects
- Sustainability awareness campaigns
- Climate resilience and flood prevention measures
Timeline for Projects
Projects should be completed by the end of 2026, with reporting submitted by the end of November 2026.
Reports should include items such as before and after photos, community feedback, a summary of activities and expenditure details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can be the lead applicant?
The lead applicant must be a Tidy Towns group or a similar voluntary environmental community group that is registered with Waterford PPN.
Can a sports club or school apply on its own?
No. Schools, sports clubs and other organisations are encouraged to take part as project partners, but an eligible Tidy Towns or similar environmental group must submit the application.
Do we need to work with other organisations?
Yes. The fund is based on communities working together, so collaboration with at least one other community stakeholder group is required.
What types of projects are suitable?
Projects should focus on improving the local environment, supporting biodiversity, enhancing green infrastructure, encouraging climate action or increasing environmental awareness.
Where can I find the application form and guidelines?
Application documents, guidance and eligibility information are available on the
Waterford City & County Council Grants Page.
Can Residents’ Associations apply?
Yes, provided they are carrying out similar environmental activities and are registered with Waterford PPN as an eligible environmental group.
What is the main aim of the LEAF grant?
The fund aims to support community-led climate action, improve local environments, encourage biodiversity and bring communities together to create greener, more sustainable places.