Columbia, South Carolina – The City of Columbia has been chosen to get an extra $100,000 from Bloomberg Philanthropies to support its pioneering Youth Climate Action Fund microgrant program, therefore significantly augmenting its efforts at climate change.
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This extension follows the program’s first success—started last summer with a $50,000 grant initially. The City underlines its dedication to enable young people to lead in environmental sustainability with a total of $150,000 currently collected to support this project.
Urgent need for more robust climate action
Under the direction of the Climate Protection Action Committee (CPAC), launched under the authority of the Office of the Mayor, the initiative addresses the urgent need for more robust climate action, a concern especially raised among young people.
According to Bloomberg Philanthropies, over 60% of young individuals feel that their governments are not doing enough to avert climate crises. By supporting young-led, youth-oriented initiatives targeted on environmental and sustainable solutions, the Youth Climate Action Fund seeks to close this disparity.
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Nine programs already sponsored
Under a competitive application process, the program sponsored nine different initiatives throughout its first phase. Among other important facets of the City’s Climate Action Plan, these projects addressed environmental education, emission reductions, and improvements to stormwater drainage infrastructure.
Closely monitored to guarantee efficient use of the money, the financed projects were chosen for potential major environmental consequences and matched rigorous reporting guidelines set by Bloomberg Philanthropies and the City.
The City of Columbia has once more opened the floor for applications as the program enters its next phase. This call extends to current grant holders, previous applicants who were not selected, and new applicants eager to contribute innovative solutions for environmental sustainability.
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Strict criteria and requirements
The Youth Climate Action Fund page of Columbia provides comprehensive application criteria and requirements. With the announcement of the grantees set for Earth Day on April 22, the application session opened on January 27 and runs until March 31.
The Youth Climate Action Fund’s ongoing existence is unmistakable evidence of Columbia’s proactive approach to environmental problems and its dedication to include young people in these important projects. Aiming to have a long-lasting effect on the way the community approaches sustainability and climate resilience, the program not only stimulates creative ideas but also instills in the young people responsibility and leadership through technical and financial support.
