Businesses urged to apply for share in $1 million EPA funding

Businesses can help the environment and reduce climate change while boosting their bottom line, with more than $1 million in Queensland Government funding on offer.

Environment Minister Lindy Nelson-Carr today encouraged businesses to apply for grants of up to $200,000 in Round 11 of the Environmental Protection Agency’s Queensland Sustainable Energy Innovation Fund (QSEIF) for innovative projects that will reduce fossil fuel use, water consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

“The QSEIF grants will help businesses develop their products to production stage,” Ms Nelson-Carr said.

“This will help place Queensland at the forefront of sustainable energy and water innovation which will ultimately help reduce greenhouse emissions and lessen global warming.”

Draft applications must be received by 4 May 2007, with projects expected to start after mid-year.

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to submit a final application by 1 June 2007.

Ms Nelson-Carr said a range of technologies had already been developed as a result of QSEIF funding.

“These are from industries including water supply and waste treatment, bio-fuels, lighting, refrigeration, food drying, solar and wave power, remote area power supply, water heating and road transport.”

Technological development may be undertaken by the applicant or contracted to another company, research institution, university or consulting group.

For guidelines and more information, visit www.epa.qld.gov.au/qseif or phone Dr Martin Gellender or Glenn Tipman on 3224 8606.

Media contact: Karla Steen 3336 8004 or Andie Gatti 3336 8002