WRAP Cymru, the Welsh branch of the Waste and Resources Action Programme, has launched a £432,000 grant programme and produced a guidance document to increase the number of ‘Recycle on the Go’ sites in the hopes of increasing the country’s recycling rate.
Launching today (16 October), the fund offers private, public and third-sector organisations grants of up to £50,0000 towards the cost of public recycling facilities, as well as the opportunity to employ recommended recycling consultants.
It is hoped that the programme will boost the prevalence of recycling facilities at public places, such as transport hubs, museums, shopping centres, and sport and leisure venues, and help Wales reach its 70 per cent recycling target by 2025. Organisers of events such as festivals and shows are also invited to apply.
Announcing the new funding, Welsh Government Environment Minister, John Griffiths, said: "The development of infrastructure to capture more recyclate in Wales is crucial if we are to continue to progress towards our ambitious targets set out in the Welsh Government's waste strategy, Towards Zero Waste.
"The Recycle on the Go facilities offer people an easy way to recycle while they're out and about. These new facilities will not only help tidy up our local environment, they will also capture high-value materials for recycling which will go some way towards creating green jobs and supporting the Welsh economy."
WRAP Cymru Project Manager Ruth Llewellyn added: “Wales leads the way when it comes to recycling at home, but why should we stop when we walk out of the door? People expect to be able to recycle their rubbish when they’re out and about, and businesses must be able to meet their needs.
“Introducing a recycling service for visitors is already easier – and cheaper – than most businesses think. And with grants of up to £50,000 and guidance to help them every step of the way it’s about to get easier still.”
In addition to the funding, WRAP Cymru has published new technical and communications guidance, plus bilingual posters, adverts and bin signage as well as best practice case studies, which are available to download for free from WRAP Cymru’s website.
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How will the government and DMOs address the challenges of including glass in DRS while ensuring a level playing field across the UK?
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