€29 million to reduce waste and reuse more

The Government has announced €29 million in funding to support communities in reducing waste, reusing more, and building a more sustainable economy.

​Minister of State at the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment Alan Dillon announced the funding, which is provided through the Circular Economy Fund.

​The fund will enable community repair hubs and reuse centres to help projects reduce waste and make better use of materials.

​In practice, this will mean there will be more opportunities for people to repair items instead of getting rid of them, as well as allowing for more affordable second hand goods, and more jobs.

​Minister Alan Dillon said: “This €29 million investment is about making the circular economy real for people in their everyday lives; whether that’s being able to repair a bike, buy a refurbished appliance, or see less waste in their community.

​We are supporting practical projects in every part of the country that will help households save money, reduce waste, and create jobs locally.

​“People want practical solutions that make a difference in their daily lives. This fund is about supporting those solutions; whether that’s a local repair service, a reuse centre, or a business finding smarter ways to use materials.

​“By working with communities and businesses, we can reduce waste, support local jobs, and build a more sustainable future for every region.”

​The projects themselves will be delivered by local authorities and enterprises across Ireland, aiming to make sure that urban and rural communities benefit.