Upcycle prize for creative minds

By John Barry

Ireland’s biggest upcycle challenge has been set for this October as part of National Reuse Month.

Now in its fourth year, National Reuse Month continues to encourage people to reuse everyday items. The scheme aims to promote alternative options to single use products, and repairing rather than replacing when feasible.

Developed by Ireland’s three waste management offices (Connacht/Ulster, Eastern/Midlands, and Southern) in conjunction with Ireland’s 31 local authorities, the scheme is supported by the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment.

As part of Reuse Month, the National Upcycle Challenge 2019 asks participants to take before and after photos of an unwanted item they have repurposed (upcycled). The most creative project in each region will win a €750 prize. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is lending its support by funding the National Upcycle Challenge 2019 which will run until 25 October.

Reuse Month supports the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, in particular Goal 12 which calls for responsible consumption and production. Goal 12 outlines the importance of the efficient management of shared natural resources and the way we dispose of toxic waste and pollutants. It also encourages industries, businesses and consumers to recycle and reduce waste.

Launching National Reuse Month 2019, Minister of State for Community Development, Natural Resources and Digital Development, Sean Canney said: “Many people in Ireland already engage in reuse and repair as part of their everyday lives, the challenge now is to make ‘reuse’ the norm in the majority of households. This in turn will have a positive impact on waste prevention and the unnecessary use of resources, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions and assisting in achieving our climate action targets.”

National Reuse Month takes place from 1 to 31 October 2019. Further details on National Reuse Month and the Upcycle Challenge 2019 are available at mywaste.ie.