Glasgow MSP Bob Doris has given his support to The Green Insurance Company’s Green Grants initiative and is urging community groups across Glasgow to apply for up to £2,000 to help fund local environmental projects. The environmental insurance company has allocated £20,000 to support green community projects and Mr Doris thinks the cash could give a much needed financial boost to small groups in the city.

Projects that will be most likely to attract funding include community vegetable gardens or wildlife gardens for encouraging biodiversity, environmental education projects for children, energy efficiency measures in community buildings, or hosting a community eco-fair to make people more green aware.

Mr Doris said: “I know of a number of community groups that could make a claim for this grant funding to promote worthwhile environmental projects in the city. We need good ideas, whether that’s encouraging wildlife on local wasteland or teaching our youngsters about taking pride in their local environment. I would urge anyone with a plan to come forward and stake a claim."

Gaynor Wood, Head of The Green Insurance Company, said: “We want to give people throughout the UK the opportunity to make a difference within their communities and supporting green initiatives is a great way to do this.  We can’t wait to start getting in the applications and would urge community groups and residents to get in touch with their projects as soon as possible."

The Green Insurance Company have set up an easy to use online application form and are inviting applications up until 29th August 2010. A panel of environmental experts including the Royal Scottish Geographical Society, Glasgow University, The Green Business Partnership and The Green Insurance Company will review all applications.  The announcements of the projects that have been successful in achieving the grants will be made in the autumn.