Community groups taking action against the impact of climate change are to benefit from an extra £1.5 million.

The Scottish Government announced the cash boost to bolster theClimate Challenge Fund (CCF) on Friday.

It takes the total budget for 2014-15 to £11.8m, and followed confirmation of the latest round of successful CCF projects.

We need to work together at international, national and local level to tackle this most serious of issues

Among the 18 recipients across Scotland sharing £1.9m are The Room to Roam Green Travel Hub in Aberdeenshire which received £171,327 to develop a car club, e-bike rental scheme as well as promoting public transport in and around Huntly.

The Greener Living Coupar Angus initiative in Perth & Kinross received £158,728 to promote local farmers selling their own produce and to provide workshops and space for residents to grow their own food.

Minister for environment and climate change Paul Wheelhouse said with the recent United Nations report on climate change it’s clear that climate change remains a serious threat.

“We need to work together at international, national and local level to tackle this most serious of issues,” he added.

“It’s great that so many communities around Scotland are showing real desire and commitment to making a difference and I’m delighted to confirm funding for a further 18 new, diverse range of projects through our Climate Challenge Fund.

“Each will contribute to making Scotland a more sustainable place to live.”