That p-aint a bad idea

A Cork community initiative that brings leftover water-based paint “back to life” has won a major recycling award.

Relove Paint, a unique collaboration between Cork city and county councils, bagged the Community Recycling Initiative trophy at the recently held Pakman Awards which seek to find and celebrate Ireland’s recycling and waste management champions.

Relove Paint is a community initiative that, in an effort to help Ireland transform to a circular economy, is reviving leftover water-based paint instead of it being brought to local civic amenity sites for disposal.

The initiative provides high-quality paint in a great range of colours for reuse in the local community. Not only does the project help the environment, but it also benefits the economy in terms of job creation and reduces costs for the community groups and individuals who use the paint.

Minister of State for the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform, Public Procurement, eGovernment with special responsibility for Communications and Circular Economy, Ossian Smyth said: “Since last year’s Pakman awards, Government has published Ireland’s first Whole of Government Circular Economy Strategy and enacted the first Circular Economy Act. The pace of change is remarkable.

“The Pakman awards don’t just recognise the marvellous achievements of individual companies but will further inspire and energise us all to reach Ireland’s potential to become a leader in the circular economy.”

Séamus Clancy, CEO of Repak added: “The standard of this year’s entries was not only exceptional but served as inspiration for others in how to deliver exemplary environmental practices.”