Communities in Cork tackling plastic waste

By Liudmyla Bortok

More than €52,000 has been awarded to 23 community groups to tackle plastic waste in their communities.

It’s part of Cork County Council’s move towards sustainable and circular living. The funding supports local projects that aim to reduce waste and cut down on single-use plastics.

The Circular Economy Fund, now in its second year, supports community-led actions that move away from the traditional “take-make-use-dispose” model. Instead, it encourages practical changes that promote reuse, recycling, and more sustainable habits.

This year’s focus was on reducing single-use plastics (SUPs). The council invited applications from schools, Tidy Towns groups, sports clubs, and festival organisers. Many responded with creative proposals to tackle plastic waste in their communities.

The successful projects include reusable cup schemes, permanent water refill stations in schools and sports grounds, and reusable container systems for Meals on Wheels. Community centres also received support to switch from disposable plastics to washable crockery.

At local events, groups introduced water stations to reduce plastic bottle use.

The council not only provided financial support but also guidance to help groups bring their ideas to life. The projects are designed to create long-term change and encourage people to choose reusable options in everyday life.

Mayor of the County of Cork Cllr Mary Linehan Foley said: “Many communities across the county taking meaningful steps to address single-use plastics and embrace circular economy principles.

“These communities are spearheading change, and each action, whether big or small, has the potential to make a lasting impact.”

Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Moira Murrell, said: “The efforts of local groups are vital to making Cork a more sustainable place to live, work, and visit.”

For more information, contact the Environmental Awareness Office at eao@corkcoco.ie.