On 24 June the Scottish Government unveiled a £2 million fund to help reduce the environmental burden of textiles.
According to Zero Waste Scotland, the Circular Textiles Fund will go directly to businesses across the textiles industry in Scotland, “from fashion to upholstery.”
Called the Circular Textiles Fund, the scheme encompasses the entire textile industry, from fashion to home textiles and beyond.
A report by Zero Waste Scotland, which assessed the carbon impact of Scotland’s household waste, showed that textiles account for nearly a third (32%) of emissions even though they only make up 4% of waste by weight.
Its announcement follows the instigation of public consultations regarding two new proposals for a lower waste, circular Scotland, the Circular Economy Bill and Route Map to 2025.
Lorna Slater, circular economy Minister, added, “Every material that is wasted comes at a cost to our planet, but it’s clear that textiles are having a disproportionate environmental impact.
“Alongside our Circular Economy Bill, this fund will help grow the number of sustainable businesses in Scotland and help prevent textiles from ending up in landfill or incineration.”
The fund has been designed to benefit viable business models for reducing new textile demand and extends to those engaged in either sustainable production.
Chief executive at Zero Waste Scotland, Iain Gulland, said “As a nation, we need to rethink the way we make, buy and use products and take action to consumer more responsibly.”
Businesses have a key role to play in facilitating that shift the Circular Textiles Fund is a fantastic opportunity to be part of the solution, he added.
Parties interested in applying are invited to learn more about their eligibility for the fund and its two-stage application process by 29 July.
