BRIMBANK community groups with a passion for the environment are being encouraged to apply for EPA Victoria’s Inspiring Environmental Solutions program.

Groups with an innovative idea to benefit the environment could receive the funds they need to make their vision come to life.

As part of the Environment Protection Act, Magistrates can order companies or individuals found guilty of environmental pollution to fund community-based environment projects, instead of paying a fine.

EPA’s CEO John Merritt said the program provided a valuable opportunity for local groups to achieve their goals.

“Since 2000... more than $3 million has been directed from over 60 prosecutions to 100 environment projects across the State,” he said.

“Seeing the polluter pay is a great outcome in terms of correcting an environmental wrong.”

Recently, the Mt Alexander Sustainability Group received $60,000 to fund its Pathways to Sustainable Low C02 Future Project. Funding categories include climate change, resource sustainability and environmental improvement.

Applications close on 30 September 2010. For information, visit http://www.epa.vic.gov.au/projects/community-project-funding.asp