New recycling fund to help Scotland become ‘zero waste economy’

By JULIA HORTON
Published on 01/10/2012 12:10

A NEW £1.5million fund has been launched today to help Scots make money from recycling carpets, clothing and cans.

The Priority Materials Fund is targeted at areas which research by Zero Waste Scotland has found are viable but under-developed commercially.

Opportunities include recycling waste carpets, washing and drying clothes and other textiles so they can be re-used, and extracting valuable materials from waste electricals and scrap vehicles, as well as improving existing recycling of paper, plastics, glass and cans.

Funds can be used to help businesses to develop new market opportunities or to expand existing operations.

Iain Gulland, Director of Zero Waste Scotland, said: “We know from research there are a number of untapped business opportunities in recycling and re-use that could create jobs and benefit the economy here in Scotland.

“By targeting investment around these identified priority areas, we know we can help Scotland progress towards its ambitious zero waste targets whilst also growing Scottish businesses. We are here to help suitable projects get off the ground, and can provide expert support as well as capital investment.”

Environment Secretary, Richard Lochhead, added: “Our vision for zero waste is about getting the greatest value from materials within our economy by recycling and re-using them over again here in Scotland. It’s about doing the right thing for the environment whilst at the same time creating opportunities for jobs and growth.

“By doing more with the materials we have here, we can also be more resilient and safeguard our future needs. This new investment is an important step in moving towards a zero waste economy.”

The Scottish Government has set a target of increasing the amount of municipal waste being recycled or composted to 60 per cent by 2020.