Louisville City Wire

Non-profit organizations in Louisville can now apply to receive a package of new, electric-powered lawn equipment through the Air Pollution Control District’s (APCD) next Lawn Care for Cleaner Air Community Equipment Grant.

The grant, first awarded in 2022, supports the maintenance needs of a local non-profit organization while expanding and encouraging the use of lower-emission lawn equipment.  

Louisville has more than 70,000 mowable acres of land and approximately 20.5 million pounds of air pollution is produced each year operating gas-powered equipment to maintain that land. The use of electric-powered lawn equipment reduces these emissions, which is most beneficial for those operating it and anyone nearby, improving air quality at the neighborhood level.

The grant package includes an electric mower, trimmer, blower, and extra rechargeable battery that powers all three tools. All non-profits located in Jefferson County are eligible to apply through January 19, 2024. The equipment will be awarded early spring for the 2024 lawncare season.

Applicants are judged on a few criteria, including their need for electric-powered equipment and their commitment to sustainability. All non-profit organizations (excluding governmental agencies) located in Jefferson County that meet the requirements are encouraged to apply, but those located in areas with environmental justice concerns will receive special consideration.

The grant is part of the APCD’s Lawn Care for Cleaner Air program, which offers rebates year-round to Louisville residents that purchase lower-emitting lawn equipment, and even larger rebates to those that also trade in their old gas-powered equipment. Since its inception in 2003 the program has issued over 12,000 rebates, preventing nearly five million pounds of air pollution.

Eligible organizations can apply for the grant directly through this form. More information on the grant can be found on the APCD website.  

Original source can be found here.