For immediate release

Volunteering Matters is celebrating a significant win for Scotland as its Action Earth programme has secured £226,236 from The National Lottery Community Fund and an additional £30,000 from NatureScot to support the initiative over the next three years.

This funding ensures the future of Action Earth until 2028, providing vital support for urban communities to lead local environmental action in response to the climate and nature emergencies. The continued partnership with NatureScot, alongside the long-term commitment from The National Lottery Community Fund, recognises the programme’s lasting impact and national importance.

Amanda Naylor, Chief Executive of Volunteering Matters, said:

“We are absolutely delighted that Action Earth has been funded for the next three years. This commitment from The National Lottery Community Fund and NatureScot is a clear recognition of the project’s impact, its role in communities and the value of sustained investment in grassroots environmental action.

“Action Earth is powered by the dedication of our volunteers and staff team, and the results speak for themselves. In 2024/25 alone, 4,001 volunteers took part, completing 142 projects and contributing over 36,000 hours of time to improve local green spaces and habitats. It shows just how passionate Scotland is about protecting our environment and how communities want to come together to lead that change.

“With this funding, we can support even more groups to take action for nature and climate where they live.”

Kate Still, Scotland Chair at The National Lottery Community Fund, said:

“Thanks to National Lottery players, we are proud to support Volunteering Matters’ Action Earth programme. This funding reflects our commitment to helping communities take meaningful action to protect and restore nature. Action Earth is a brilliant example of how local people can lead the response to the climate emergency where they live.

We’re excited to see the continued impact this work will have on green spaces and biodiversity across Scotland’s towns and cities.”

Nick Halfhide, NatureScot Interim Chief Executive, said:

Across Scotland, Action Earth is empowering communities to protect our natural environment, playing a vital role in addressing climate change and biodiversity loss. The dedication of volunteers is absolutely essential—without them, our collective impact would be significantly reduced. Our new joint funding partnership with the National Lottery strengthens this initiative, complementing our ‘Make Space for Nature’ campaign that encourages everyone to connect with and take care of the natural world. We encourage groups throughout Scotland to apply for these grants and help us build a more sustainable future where both people and nature can thrive.

About Action Earth

Action Earth provides micro-grants of up to £250 to volunteer-led environmental projects in urban areas across Scotland. These grants support practical, outdoor conservation activities that enhance local biodiversity and green spaces in cities, towns and villages.

From wildflower meadows and community woodlands to pond creation and habitat restoration, the initiative empowers people of all ages and backgrounds to make a meaningful difference to their local environment. In 2025, the programme will continue to prioritise projects that address health inequalities, promote social inclusion and engage younger and underrepresented volunteers.

Groups interested in applying can find resources and inspiration on the Action Earth website at www.volunteeringmatters.org.uk/action-earth

About Volunteering Matters

Volunteering Matters brings people together through the power of volunteering to build stronger, more inclusive communities. Action Earth is one of over 150 place-based projects led by Volunteering Matters across the UK.

For media enquiries, please contact:
Andrew Henry

communications@volunteeringmatters.org.uk

0793 9838 666