Newsletter – June 2021

Circularity in Ireland is like a game of chicken at the moment. Companies are waiting for the government to bring in binding obligations before jumping and the government is waiting for business to start delivering circular solutions before putting demands on voters and the market.

We’re starting to see words in policy documents move from ‘guidance and voluntary’ to ‘mandatory and obligatory’, but the requisite legislation is still a fair way off. That doesn’t mean that we can’t be preparing ourselves now. If you’re at the start of your journey to sustainability check out my article on How to Write a Sustainability Policy. or drop me an email at info@circulardesigninstitute.ie

But before you do. Here’s some circular economy news ……….

Photo by Dan Schiumarini on Unsplash

The EPA has launched their Climate Enterprise Action Fund. There are 3 forms of funding options. Funds available include a climate voucher of €1800 to engage a consultant, €5000 to measure your carbon footprint or 50% of cost of developing a climate change and sustainability plan. Closing date 31st of August.

The EPA has also announced a round of funding for research into sustainable initiatives, including those related to the circular economy. Closing date the 7th of July.

Laudable ambitions from TD Richard Bruton on the circular economy. It will be interesting to hear the how behind this what

Love this simple design for a reusable carry cord in lieu of a carrier bag

A shortage of timber in France is making it hard for architects and builders to comply with the regulations for public buildings to be 50% wood 

Some excellent examples of more sustainable furniture designs

A clever way to refrigerate food passively that harks back to the past

Lamps made from discarded umbrellas

Embedding circularity into a business from someone who walks the walk; Patagonia

Website that estimates carbon footprint of your website

Shopify to spend $5 million per year “to kickstart demand in carbon removal”

Interesting idea to create carbon sinks with landfilled bioplastic clothing 

Furniture maker TAKT to be carbon neutral in one or two years

Library of carbon absorbing materials launched

GMIT introduces diploma in circular economy leadership for the built environment at a substantially reduced price of €600. Closing date for applications is the 30th June 2021.

Till next time

Elaine