We are launching new funding, as part of the Victorian Government's 10-year action plan and policy Recycling Victoria. Our aim is to improve confidence and expand markets for recycled products in Victoria.
The $1.8 million Recycling Victoria Research and Development Fund – Materials supports research institutes and industry to develop new and diversified products and processes for recycled priority materials. These materials include:
- cardboard
- glass
- plastic
- paper
- tyres (rubber).
The fund supports research institutes and industry partners to:
- collaborate on innovative solutions that increase use of recycled materials
- research, develop and diversify products and processes using recycled priority materials – both existing and emerging
- improve and develop recycled materials product standards and specifications
- improve confidence and demand for recycled priority materials.
Research institutes can apply to receive a grant between $75,000 and $300,000 for innovative research that supports Victoria's transition to a circular economy.
This fund is part of Recycling Victoria's $30.5 million Market Acceleration Program. This program will drive demand for recycled materials across the economy by:
- supporting the development of innovative new products
- improving market confidence in recycled products and materials
- developing and promoting standards, specifications and guidance materials for using recycled materials in sectors such as manufacturing and construction.
Grant applications close 3:00 pm, 19 April 2021.
Innovation drives new opportunities
These grants will play an important role in creating new products made from recycled materials. Creating new products will increase the range of recycled products available to organisations across the state.
Local government and alpine resort management boards are leading the way, by using innovative recycled products developed by researchers and industry, through the Sustainable Infrastructure Fund.
Eighteen local councils and alpine resort management boards will share in more than $2.6 million to use recycled materials and products in infrastructure projects.
At the City of Darebin's KP Hardiman hockey field:
- recycled glass will be used in new concrete pathways
- recycled plastic will take on new life in asphalt and outdoor furniture
- shockpads installed under artificial turf will be made from recycled rubber tyres
- recycled paper mulch will be used when reseeding the surrounding grass areas.
While Alpine Shire Council will build a recreational trail using recycled soft plastics, glass, toner from printer cartridges and reclaimed asphalt.
These are only a few innovative ways local governments are using recycled materials in their infrastructure projects.
See the full list of recipients of the Sustainable Infrastructure Fund.
