Circular Economy Grants empower local communities

Statement by Community Foundation Ireland

Communities across the country are getting support to formulate plans to move towards zero waste with grant support from Community Foundation Ireland.

The Foundation is supporting 26 community groups in 15 counties to work with experts to identify measures which can locally promote the re-use of goods by developing Local Circular Economy Plans.

Each will be supported by the environmental group VOICE which has recognised expertise on waste and the circular economy, or similar experts.

It is intended that each project will develop its plan over the next 12-months and will also be supported to take the first steps towards implementing the actions identified.

As a philanthropic hub, the Community Foundation, has been a leader in supporting and promoting the Circular Economy and other measures which see materials given new life through re-cycling and re-use rather than going to landfill.

Investments have included supporting students to end fast-fashion, recycling of materials from old mattresses, medical inhalers, clothing and lots more.

Under this current grant round each of the successful groups will receive a grant of €2,500.

Announcing the successful applicants, Denise Charlton, Chief Executive of Community Foundation Ireland said:
“Ending waste is one of the biggest challenges we face if we are to ensure sustainable futures for our communities, country and planet. As a leader in this area, the Foundation and its donors are keenly aware that many people are willing to take action, but struggle in getting the right information to take the first steps. Now we are addressing that gap for a further 26 communities.”