Sustainability Victoria is investing in Victorian research institutes, industry, and businesses to think smarter, innovate and 'go circular' with new funding of almost $1 million to improve their understanding of the circular economy and to adopt circular business practices.
Delivered in partnership with the Victorian Government, the Circular Economy Innovation Fund: Round 4 - Capability Building supports recipients to strengthen the circular outcomes of products, services, industries, supply chains, or systems, to contribute to Victoria's transition to a circular economy.
Worn Gundidj Nursery, a native plant nursery, will launch a training program to promote circular economy principles among 50 nurseries and gardens in Victoria to reduce waste and improve product value retention and ecosystem regeneration.
Through its Circular Economy Business Accelerator Program, Bass Coast Shire Council will target 20 local businesses to transition to sustainable, circular economy models.
The Federation of Victorian Traditional Owner Corporations will develop a prototype of circular economy products and services for the Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation, including the Bush Cafe, events, and tourism facilities.
Gippsland Climate Change Network will strengthen circular economy practices among small and medium-sized enterprises in Gippsland through a dedicated project officer, workshops, web resources, and training programs.
Other projects receiving support include circular economy skills development training for shopping centre administration delivered by social enterprise Reground, to help improve their waste management and identify how to keep materials in circulation for longer.
Collectively, it is anticipated that these projects will strengthen the circular capability of over 600 businesses and individuals.
Overall, the Circular Economy Innovation Fund has supported 32 projects with a total of $4.3 million in funding. These projects have focused on boosting circular innovation and identifying, commercialising, and scaling up circular solutions.
To learn more about how Sustainability Victoria is stopping waste before it starts, read the full details of the grant recipients and the funding.
