Responsible Business Insights

Greater Manchester Environment Trust: Driving Local Action for Nature, Climate and Communities

Greater Manchester is a region with big ambitions. By 2038, it wants to be carbon neutral, resilient to climate shocks, and fairer for all its people. Meeting that target requires bold thinking and strong collaboration, and that’s exactly why the Greater Manchester Environment Trust (GMET) exists.

GMET was created in partnership with the Wildlife Trust for Lancashire, Manchester and North Merseyside, alongside the Greater Manchester Combined Authority. Together they recognised the need for a dedicated, independent charity to connect funders, experts and communities so that environmental priorities can turn into practical, on-the-ground projects.

At its heart, GMET’s vision is simple but powerful: to drive positive action for nature, climate and communities, and to do it in a way that benefits everyone, not just a few. Its mission is to be the bridge between money, ideas and delivery. Whether that means helping a grassroots group transform a neglected plot into a green haven, or mobilising larger investment into nature recovery and climate resilience, GMET is there to make sure the right resources flow to the right places.

So far, the results speak for themselves. Through the Green Spaces Fund and the Recycle for Greater Manchester Community Fund, GMET has already distributed more than £3 million to community projects, supporting 155 initiatives across the city region. These have ranged from new pocket parks to improved recycling facilities, with a particular focus on the areas where people need green space and nature the most.

But GMET isn’t just a grants manager. It is steadily positioning itself as a hub for environmental investment in Greater Manchester. Recent successes include securing £1.8 million from the Green Recovery Challenge Fund, which in turn unlocked almost £16 million in matched investment. The Trust is now exploring roles in the Biodiversity Net Gain market and carbon offsetting, recognising that new funding streams are essential if Greater Manchester is to hit its 2038 targets.

GMET is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO), registered with the Charity Commission. Registered Charity (No. 1203198

As Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, has said, “We’re serious about making the changes needed.” GMET is one of the organisations proving that seriousness through action.