TIME is running out to apply for a grant to help reduce waste in your community.

With the cost of dealing with Hampshire’s household waste now regularly topping the £100m per year mark, Hampshire County Council is offering grants of up to £5,000 to help kickstart or expand projects, products and services which prevent waste created in the home in the first place.

Applications for the Waste Prevention Community Grant Fund are open until January 31.

Rob Humby (pictured), the county council’s executive member for environment and transport, said: “Reducing the amount of waste in the system is vital as resources and finances are squeezed.

“Some of the best work in reducing waste is happening at a local level, with groups sharing knowledge or running services such as providing community fridges, setting up furniture upcycling schemes, or offering advice on using up leftovers.

“We want to help these local groups and projects to help us all waste less by providing funds to expand their good work or kickstart a bright idea.

“So, if your school, community group, small business, parish council or charity knows how to help but needs some financial support to get their project up and running, please get in touch.”

Applicants are encouraged to discuss potential projects with the county council’s smart living team prior to submitting an application.

To arrange an informal discussion, e-mail [email protected].

For more details or to apply for a grant, visit3.hants.gov.uk/grants/environment-grants.