ENM's Environmental Initiatives Fund

22/06/2026

Large grant projects 2026

Thank you to everyone who submitted Large Grant applications to Environment Network Manawatū’s (ENM) Environmental Initiatives Fund (EIF).

Established in 2020, the EIF is administered by ENM and is made possible through the support of Palmerston North City Council and Eastern & Central Community Trust.

As with previous funding rounds, we were significantly oversubscribed for large grants with 29 applications worth over $400,000 in funding requests.

Of the nineteen successful applications, we were able to fully fund four projects and partially fund a further fifteen. Just over $135,175 in large grants was distributed this year.

See the full list here

Thank you to everyone who submitted Large Grant applications to Environment Network Manawatū’s (ENM) Environmental Initiatives Fund (EIF).

21/04/2026

We supported a circular economy by funding a recycling initiative delivered by Infinite Recycling, enabling free e waste collection services and the responsible processing of 3.39 tonnes of material. By removing the transport cost barrier, more businesses and organisations were able to take part in responsible e waste disposal, resulting in a significant increase in material diverted from landfill. The project encouraged improved environmental practices and reduced the risk of improper disposal. It also contributed to carbon emission reductions by avoiding the need for new raw material extraction and manufacturing. The recovery and reuse of valuable materials supported more sustainable resource use and reduced the environmental footprint of electronic consumption.

The collected equipment included electronic items such as desktops, laptops, monitors, cables, and accessories. A large portion of this equipment was reused or refurbished, extending the life of devices and reducing demand for new manufacturing. Remaining materials were dismantled for parts recovery or recycled appropriately, while hazardous components such as batteries were safely separated and processed to prevent environmental contamination. As part of the project’s reuse outcomes, some recovered equipment was donated to MTAC Academy in the Cook Islands. This extended the life of devices while supporting education and community development, demonstrating the social and environmental value of prioritising reuse over disposal.

The project was highly successful in achieving its objectives. The primary goal of increasing the collection and responsible processing of e waste was met through regular pickups and the introduction of collection bins for customers. This made it easier for businesses and organisations to dispose of electronic waste correctly and led to a steady increase in the volume of material collected. Operational efficiency also improved through streamlined collection and sorting processes, enabling better material separation and higher recovery rates. The project strengthened client relationships and increased awareness of e waste recycling options within the community.

-Small Grant

16/04/2026

We were able to support a circular economy by funding a project what saves used sewing machines and other accessories from ending up in landfill. In 2025, 140 sewing machines were donated to the project. Many of these machines had been stored in garages or cupboards for more than 10 years. Approximately 10 percent were beyond repair. These machines were sold to Macaulay Scrap Metals, allowing many of the parts to be salvaged and reused.

Donors often express delight that their much loved machines may help new New Zealanders. Many go on to become enthusiastic advocates, spreading the word very effectively.
The group has developed a strong word of mouth network, supported by a team of occasional volunteers who consistently say yes to requests. They have also built a strong relationship with their main client, the Red Cross Resettlement team led by Tina Larsen, and enjoy the respect and support of local radio and newspapers, along with some national exposure on RNZ and TVNZ One.

The objective of raising public awareness about the option of recycling old sewing machines has exceeded expectations. The group has been able to keep pace with demand for sewing machines, while also providing fabric and notions to each recipient. With funding received from the Environmental Initiative, additional machines have been saved through the purchase of complex and costly parts, and supplies of notions have been topped up as needed.

https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/383264/sewing-machine-plea-prompts-dozens-of-donations-for-refugees

-Small Grant

09/04/2026

We were able to support community food sovereignty by funding Whanau O Tu Ara Ake to build a raised garden that produces fresh fruit and vegetables to share. They were also supported by staff who provided valuable guidance on purchasing quality materials that should last at least 20 years.

-Small Grant