1m recycling fund launched for industry in Northern Ireland

The Waste Management Industry Fund, being run by the DOE's Environment and Heritage Service (EHS) in partnership with Invest Northern Ireland (INI), is aimed at new projects from individuals and existing commercial organisations. It will offer grants to capital projects such as plant, machinery and equipment.

The fund will go to projects involved with the recycling of plastics, glass, metals, paper, wood, tyres, oils, construction and demolition waste. Waste to energy and asbestos removal projects could also benefit.

The major obstacle to increasing levels of recycling and resource recovery in Northern Ireland is the lack of local markets containing recycled material, the DOE said, which is why one of the aims of the fund will be to create new markets through innovative use of recycled materials.

Richard Rogers, chief executive of the EHS said: “I would ask businesses to give serious consideration to the financial opportunity which this fund represents. Both Agencies agree that the requirement to create better markets for recovered materials is very important in terms of economic development and the need to move away from landfill.”

Leslie Morrison, chief executive of INI, added: “There’s now a global focus on environmental issues, this includes recycled material, which is a valuable resource that should be managed in more sustainable ways. Invest NI is keen to encourage existing companies and new start-ups to grasp quickly the business opportunity this fund presents.”

One of the commitments in the Waste Management Strategy for Northern Ireland was to develop a Market Development Programme, and the Waste Management Industry Fund will encourage businesses to develop sustainable markets for recovered materials.

Application forms and guidance notes for support from the Fund can be obtained from:

Or visit the Invest Northern Ireland website. Applications must be received by October 17, 2003.