Over €10,000 has been allocated to eight environmental awareness projects in Co Clare, under the 2009 Local Agenda 21 Environmental Partnership Fund.

The fund promotes sustainable development by assisting small scale, non-profit environmental projects at local level.

It has operated in various forms since 1997 when 65 projects received funding.

Around 408 projects across Ireland are to receive grants totalling €636,111 under the fund this year.

Clare TD Tony Killeen said the administration of the funds at local level was the responsibility of Clare County Council, with the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government maintaining a supervisory role.

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He said a wide variety of innovative and exciting projects and schemes in Co Clare have been supported under the fund during recent years.

"I am delighted that all projects focus on environmental awareness and action, which complement national environmental policies such as those on waste, biodiversity, climate change and sustainable development."

Mr Killeen said the Clare projects, in receipt of funding this year, range from an Environmental Awareness Community Workshop Programme to an education initiative on the transition to a Sustainable Low-Carbon Future.

Burrenbeo Trust has been granted funding to work against heritage destruction, litter dumping and invasive species encroachment.

Ogonnelloe National School Parents Association will receive a new outdoor classroom, as will Mol an Óige Steiner National School in Ennistymon.

Mr Killeen said the provision and development of environmental initiatives in these area will promote sustainable lifestyles and developing sustainable communities.

(PR/BMcC)