Veolia is offering grants of up to £1,000 to help improve biodiversity in Watford.

The funding is available to community groups, schools, and non-profit organisations, with applications closing on September 30.

Watford Council and Veolia are urging potential applicants to submit their proposals promptly to secure financial support.

Veolia's Sustainability Fund is open to not-for-profit organisations, community groups, or individuals that protect and preserve resources in their local area.

The company is particularly interested in applications from projects that aim to make a positive, long-term difference to biodiversity. Applicants can also request in-kind resources or volunteers.

Applications can be made via Veolia's website at veolia.co.uk/Sustainability-Fund before the deadline.

Projects should aim to fulfil at least one of the following criteria: enhancing biodiversity; promoting sustainable behaviours (reduce, reuse, recycle); protecting or preserving resources and the environment by using recycled, reused, or reclaimed materials.

Veolia is a leading resource management company in the UK, offering services in waste management, water management, and energy services. The company is committed to ecological transformation and sustainability, providing solutions to improve the environment and communities.

Watford mayor Peter Taylor said: "Partnering with Veolia to offer grants that promote biodiversity aligns with Watford Council’s commitment to being net carbon zero by 2030. By supporting local schools, community groups, and non-profits, we’re encouraging initiatives that not only contribute to a greener environment but also enhance the quality of life for everyone in Watford. I urge all eligible groups to take advantage of this fantastic opportunity before the deadline."

Pascal Hauret, managing director, Municipal at Veolia, said: “I am always thrilled to see projects we support through the Sustainability Fund coming to life, and look forward to reviewing all the creative and inspiring applications for this year. Biodiversity is one of the pillars of ecological transformation and we’re proud to be supporting the communities we work in every day to make their local areas even greener.

"If you have a project that needs support, which fits the criteria of the fund, I urge you to apply before the deadline so you don’t miss the opportunity to bring your ideas to life and make a difference in your local community."