Grants open to boost circular economy and reduce waste in northern Tasmania

Northern Tasmanian businesses, schools and community organisations are invited to apply for the 2026 Resource Recovery and Circular Economy Grants, now open for applications.

Since being hosted by NRM North, these grants have provided close to a quarter of a million dollars in funding for innovative projects that reduce landfill and strengthen the region’s circular economy, helping to divert more than 400 tonnes of waste from landfill.

Launched today, the 2026 grant program offers a total funding pool of $45,000, with individual applicants eligible to receive up to $10,000 for projects that: 

• Support circular economy initiatives, extending the life cycle of materials and improving recycling efforts.
• Reduce waste and increase recovery rates.
• Invest in recycling infrastructure and new technologies.
• Deliver educational programs and resources that empower communities to adopt better waste management practices.

Circular North Steering Committee Chair John Marik said the grants continue to fuel forward-thinking solutions that create tangible benefits for communities and the environment. 

“The simplest way to reduce waste is to reuse what we already have. Recycling and rethinking how we consume are powerful steps toward a more sustainable future for northern Tasmania,” Mr Marik said.

“We’re seeing incredible innovation from local organisations finding smarter ways to manage waste and reuse materials. These grants give them the backing they need to turn bright ideas into lasting change for northern Tasmania’s environment and economy.”

Applicants must be based in northern Tasmania and demonstrate a commitment to minimising waste through circular economy practices. A cash co-contribution of 50% of the total eligible project cost is required, with exemptions for schools and not-for-profit community organisations.

More information, including application guidelines, eligibility requirements and details of previous recipients, is available at https://nrmnorth.org.au/circularnorth/Resource-recovery-and-circular-economy-grants

Applications close at 5 pm, Friday 23 January 2026.

Circular North is supported by the Tasmanian Waste and Resource Recovery Board, which is funded by the Tasmanian Government.