Now, the projects will be used as case studies to show other organisations what initiatives they could consider when applying for sustainability grants in the future.

The grants were awarded for a wide range of projects including the purchasing of compostable and recyclable packaging; installing solar panels; to change from diesel-powered tools to solar-powered tools; to run a large composting system and tint large windows. 

All of these initiatives aim to reduce energy and water use, as well as lessen waste going to landfill.

“When a project has been completed the organisation who received the grant will be required to share what they have learnt and, thus, encourage others to commit to their own sustainable initiatives,” council’s sustainability officer Mick Brady said. 

A reduction in fuel use is the goal of one successful applicant. 

Final Form Regeneration managing director Tom Green said he believed solar-powered tools would do just as good a job as diesel-powered tools.

“If they do, we can then demonstrate that to everyone who does similar work,” he explained.

“It would also help to reduce the risk to staff when refueling and mixing two-stroke petrol motors.”

Warrior Disability Services director of participant services Sally Pereira also saw the benefits of the grants.

“It will help us to continue our composting system and, hopefully, show others what they could be doing at home or at work,” she said.

For more information on sustainability grants, contact Mick Brady on 6549 3700 or email sustainability@muswellbrook.nsw.gov.au