Circular Economy

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Co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the EU Just Transition Fund

 

Longford Leads the Way: A Pioneer Circular Economy Centre of Excellence

Longford Circular Economy Centre of Excellence is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union's Just Transition Fund Programme 2021-2027.

In April 2024, Longford County Council was awarded €200,860 under the EU Just Transition Fund (JTF) programme to undertake a feasibility study and pilot training with a view to developing a Circular Economy Centre of Excellence in Longford town. It is proposed that Longford County Council and the EDI Centre will partner on this transformative project.

About the Project

Envisioned as a multi-million euro investment comprising a 25,000–30,000 sq ft facility, the Centre will operate as a multi-faceted, closed-loop hub incorporating:

  • Education and Training Centre Delivering dedicated training programmes to support job creation in the circular economy sector, promoting community awareness, and providing information on waste management best practices.
  • Repair and Upcycling Workshop Hub A public drop-off point where goods will be processed for upcycling before resale. Upcycling services will also be available for members of the public.
  • Pioneering Circular Economy Retail Mall A first-in-class retail shopping mall featuring multiple shops offering a wide range of recycled products. Inspired by successful European models such as Retuna and Yuman, this mall will create circular economy activity in Longford and surrounding areas, nurture small businesses and social enterprises, and generate retail job opportunities.
  • Incubation and Research Unit Working in partnership with agencies and industry operators to identify gaps and develop innovative services and products.

Purpose

The Centre aspires to be a green role model, public educator, retail space and incubation hub.  Its aim is to provide new employment opportunities through providing training and environmentally sustainable living opportunities aimed at Just Transition families and communities. 

Target groups include:

  • Longford Just Transition families previously reliant on peat-related employment
  • Marginalised and disadvantaged groups, including:
    • Long-term unemployed
    • People with disabilities
    • Minorities (Travellers, Ukrainian community, new communities)
  • Entrepreneurs, small businesses, and social enterprises
  • Young people and students

Objectives

Environmental

  • Reduce landfill waste
  • Lower CO₂ emissions

Economic

  • Create jobs for marginalised groups, with a focus on JT families
  • Provide quality upcycled products
  • Generate income for reinvestment and sustainability
  • Support social enterprises and small businesses in the green economy

Societal

  • Change negative habits around waste disposal
  • Develop education, skills, and awareness programmes

Job Creation

Employment will be generated in three key areas:

  • Within the Centre of Excellence (trainers, workshop operatives, retail staff)
  • Local businesses requiring circular economy skillsets
  • Entrepreneurs developing their own green businesses

 

Find out more about the EU Just Transition Fundhere: www.emra.ie/eu-jtf/

Find out more about EU funding here: www.eufunds.ie