Reducing plastic waste in the environment: apply for funding

18 Jun 2018 02:13 PM

Businesses can apply for a share of £4 million to support innovative ideas that reduce persistent plastic waste in the environment through new alternatives.

There is up to £4 million for innovative business projects that look at ways of reducing plastic waste through new polymers, processes, designs, recycling regimes and use of biodegradable alternatives.

The funding is provided by UK Research and Innovation and delivered by Innovate UK. This competition forms part of the £20 million package of the Plastics and Research Innovation Fund.

Tackling the plastic problem

There is growing concern about the amount of plastic waste in the environment and its impact on wildlife and the wider eco-system.

The amount of plastic waste produced is growing fast. It was reported that in 2016, 1.5 million tons of plastic was produced globally. This is set to double by 2034.

As recent as 2014, it was found that less than a third of Europe’s plastic waste was recycled, with another third ending up in landfill. The remaining third was sent to energy recovery facilities.

Projects should improve recycling

The competition is seeking ‘circular economy’ approaches to plastic use that could include:

Projects could also look at new business models or at approaches focused on compostable or biodegradable materials.

Clean growth is one of government’s 4 grand challenges identified in the Industrial Strategy. Find out more about why it is focusing on this important area for the future.

Competition information

Find out more about this competition and apply.