Lidl yesterday (Monday, February 24), launched a new green fund, which will award communities across the country with €100,000 in funding for local projects that tackle environmental challenges.

The green fund is now open to applications from charities, and primary and secondary schools, with a top prize of €25,000 on offer for the winning lead project, and a further €75,000 allocated to additional regional causes.

Applications are being sought for community projects across four key areas;  

Climate: Initiatives that support communities to develop climate action plans that minimise the impacts of climate change e.g. installation of solar panels, LED lighting, carbon literacy training;
Biodiversity: Initiatives that develop environmental projects to support all ecosystems within our local communities e.g. community gardens, nature trails, native and pollinator friendly planting, pocket forests, marine environment, and conservation projects; 
Reducing waste: identifying solutions to reduce waste and support a circular economy e.g. waste programmes, repair cafes, upcycling, workshops and seminars; 
Health and wellbeing: educating local communities to promote healthy diets and make healthier food choices e.g. community cooking programmes and nutrition workshops.

Speaking at the launch, broadcaster, podcaster, and advocate for sustainability,  Fionnuala Jay said: “I’m delighted to support the launch of Lidl’s Green Fund.

"This is such a great opportunity for smaller community groups, charities or schools to get the financial boost they need to make their vision a reality and really transform their local area," she added.

Lidl’s green fund, developed in partnership with Business in the Community Ireland, is part of the retailer’s overarching sustainability strategy and commitment to creating "a better tomorrow".

According to the retailer, this initiative aims to make a positive contribution to the communities in which it operates.

Head of sustainability at Lidl Ireland and Northern Ireland, Elaine O’Connor, said: “At Lidl, we continue to set ambitious goals and take tangible actions to mitigate challenges and protect our planet for future generations, because it’s the right thing to do. 

"Together, small steps can add up to a better, more sustainable tomorrow for us all. As Ireland’s most sustainable retailer, we know we have a responsibility to educate and support our customers and the communities in which we operate to lead more sustainable lives.

"With a network of over 180 stores in Ireland, we want to use our reach into local communities as a real force for good and the launch of the new Lidl Green Fund is our latest initiative designed to move us forward in the journey towards a better tomorrow,” she added. 

Applications for Lidl’s green fund are open from February 24 until March 24, 2025.