We are all dependent on the natural systems that support us. How we live within those systems will determine their sustainability as well as our own.
While the challenges we face are numerous, there are also enormous opportunities. Lord Mayor's Charitable Foundation is developing and incubating solutions to difficult environmental challenges, as well as fostering the social change required to ensure a smooth transition to a more sustainable future.
Our environment and sustainability priorities change over time in response to need and in line with the evidence base. Currently, the Foundation is focusing on these three priorities:
PRIORITY 1
Transitioning towards a low-carbon economy
Help the community understand the climate challenge, rapidly reduce emissions, adapt to a changing climate and equitably adjust as we transition to a low carbon economy.
Strategy
1.1 Increase energy efficiency and renewable energy generation in vulnerable households and the not-for-profit sector to reduce emissions, provide protection from temperature extremes and decrease energy costs.
1.2 Increase public understanding of the climate challenge by providing accessible, evidence based information in a way that engages a very broad audience or that targets less engaged sectors that are critical to an effective response.
PRIORITY 2
Building a sustainable food system
Build a sustainable food system, which provides access to healthy, affordable food for all people while protecting the capacity of future generations to feed themselves.
Strategy
2.1 Increase urban food production, particularly in the residential sector.
2.2 Increase food rescue and reduce food and packaging waste.
2.3 Support the development of food systems that are secure and sustainable, particularly in the foodbowl that provides much of Melbourne’s fresh fruit and vegetables.
PRIORITY 3
Protecting aquatic eco-systems
Improve our understanding of aquatic eco-system health, reduce human impacts and restore damaged eco-systems.
Strategy
3.1 Reduce human impacts on aquatic eco-systems.
3.2 Investigate the health of aquatic eco-systems, identify threatening processes and develop management strategies.
Does your organisation's work align with these priorities?
Learn about our Environment & Sustainability Innovation Grants and speak to our Program Manager:
RECENT GRANTS
| Organisation | Amount |
| Sustain: The Australian Food Network | $300,000 |
| Australian Marine Mammal Conservation Foundation | $150,000 |
| Climate Council of Australia | $150,000 |
| South Gippsland Conservation Society Inc | $50,000 |
| Alternative Technology Association Inc. | $68,000 |
| Beyond Zero Emissions Inc | $70,000 |
| Environmental Justice Australia Ltd | $100,000 |
| Friends of the Earth Melbourne Inc | $30,000 |
| Sustainable Gardening Australia | $40,000 |