CIRCULÉIRE is Ireland’s first national circular innovation network, supporting industry and manufacturing to develop and deliver circular business models driving the circular economy transition. CIRCULÉIRE The National Platform for Circular Innovation BECOME A MEMBER CIRCULÉIRE is Ireland's First Circular Innovation Network. Our mission is to demystify, derisk, and deliver circular business model innovation by unlocking the value that resides in an Irish circular economy. CIRCULÉIRE, the National Platform for Circular Innovation, is a multi-million euro cross-sectoral, industry-led public-private partnership that provides Industry with the necessary supports and expertise to drive their systems-level circular innovation. Irish Manufacturing Research (IMR) (Secretariat) in conjunction with three public sector Strategic Partners (Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications (DECC); the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA); and EIT Climate-KIC ), and 25 Founding Industry Members (MNCs and SMEs alike) soft-launched the programme in January 202O as a pilot initiative. Building on the impacts achieved by the pilot initiative from 2020 to 2022, the Department of Environment, Climate, and Communications became the primary public funder of CIRCULÉIRE in 2023. This support enables the continued scaling of industry-led circular innovation while leveraging existing expertise and activities within the national circular innovation ecosystem. We work across multiple Industry sectors and are stewarding over 50 organisations and their supply-chains on a journey from linear to circular business models. €1.5m Invested in 10 Circular Innovation Pilot Demonstrations €130k Invested in supporting 26 Circular New Ventures to date 50+ Active Members VIEW MEMBERS 19 Circularity Action Plans and Assessments Delivered 10 Thematic Working Groups delivered for Collaborative Knowledge Sharing READ ABOUT CIRCULÉIRE WHAT IS CIRCULAR ECONOMY? Circular Business Supports We accelerate organisations’ Circular Transformation to meet ESG and net-zero goals. More Knowledge Exchange & Policy Engagements We facilitate learning and capacity building and demystify policy and regulation to drive circular innovation. More Ecosystem Collaboration We are a dynamic Cross-Sectoral Industry Network committed to scaling circularity. More Highlights National Policy Statement & Roadmap on Circular Textiles Following DCEE’s Circular Textiles roadmap launch, IMR/CIRCULÉIRE will lead cross‑sector collaboration supporting innovation, skills, funding access, and SME EPR engagement. Circular Economy Innovation Grant Scheme (CEIGS) CEIGS 2026 is now open, offering €1.5 million in funding to support innovative circular economy projects across Ireland. Visit the CEIGS page to learn more. The All-Island Circular Venture Awards 2026 is now open! The All-Island Circular Venture Awards 2026 Call for Applications is now open, celebrating innovative circular economy start-ups with funding, expert coaching, networking opportunities, and investor exposure. The CIRCULÉIRE Innovation Fund 2026 is now open! The CIRCULÉIRE Innovation Fund 2026 supports collaborative circular economy demonstration projects that help Irish industry test, demonstrate and scale practical circular solutions. Click on the image for more details. Application Deadline: 31st August. Circular Explorer The Circular Explorer is an interactive infographic that maps circular economy strategies across the full product value chain, from raw material sourcing and design through manufacturing, distribution, use, and end of life. At each stage, it highlights circular opportunities, key enablers, and common barriers, alongside real‑world examples of companies already putting circular practices into action. The Explorer includes eight sector‑specific versions covering Food and Drink, Electronics, the Built Environment, Textiles, Plastics, Agri‑Bio, Pharma and Chemicals, and Transport. CIRCULEIRE Accelerator Programme 2026 The CIRCULÉIRE Accelerator, now six years strong, is scaling industry‑led circular solutions across Ireland with continued DECC support. More than 50 organisations are already transforming their value chains. Click the image to know more. Circular Skills Insights Report (2025) The CIRCULÉIRE Circular Skills Insights Report 2025 explores circular economy skills, jobs, leadership, and innovation in Irish industry, bridging the gap between strategy and operational delivery through research and training. Click the image to know more. Innovation Sprints 2026 Led by Karl Crowley, Senior Programme Manager for R, D & I (CIRCULÉIRE/IMR), the programme will include both online and in‑person sessions focused on identifying and developing circular innovation opportunities. CIRCULÉIRE & Zero Waste Scotland Innovation Exchange Trip Highlights Organised by CIRCULÉIRE/IMR in partnership with Zero Waste Scotland, the Innovation Knowledge Exchange Trip took place on 9–10 September 2025, bringing members to five leading innovation and sustainability centres across Scotland. Click the image to watch the video. National Policy Statement & Roadmap on Circular Textiles Following DCEE’s Circular Textiles roadmap launch, IMR/CIRCULÉIRE will lead cross‑sector collaboration supporting innovation, skills, funding access, and SME EPR engagement. Circular Economy Innovation Grant Scheme (CEIGS) CEIGS 2026 is now open, offering €1.5 million in funding to support innovative circular economy projects across Ireland. Visit the CEIGS page to learn more. The All-Island Circular Venture Awards 2026 is now open! The All-Island Circular Venture Awards 2026 Call for Applications is now open, celebrating innovative circular economy start-ups with funding, expert coaching, networking opportunities, and investor exposure. The CIRCULÉIRE Innovation Fund 2026 is now open! The CIRCULÉIRE Innovation Fund 2026 supports collaborative circular economy demonstration projects that help Irish industry test, demonstrate and scale practical circular solutions. Click on the image for more details. Application Deadline: 31st August. Circular Explorer The Circular Explorer is an interactive infographic that maps circular economy strategies across the full product value chain, from raw material sourcing and design through manufacturing, distribution, use, and end of life. At each stage, it highlights circular opportunities, key enablers, and common barriers, alongside real‑world examples of companies already putting circular practices into action. The Explorer includes eight sector‑specific versions covering Food and Drink, Electronics, the Built Environment, Textiles, Plastics, Agri‑Bio, Pharma and Chemicals, and Transport. CIRCULEIRE Accelerator Programme 2026 The CIRCULÉIRE Accelerator, now six years strong, is scaling industry‑led circular solutions across Ireland with continued DECC support. More than 50 organisations are already transforming their value chains. Click the image to know more. Circular Skills Insights Report (2025) The CIRCULÉIRE Circular Skills Insights Report 2025 explores circular economy skills, jobs, leadership, and innovation in Irish industry, bridging the gap between strategy and operational delivery through research and training. Click the image to know more. Innovation Sprints 2026 Led by Karl Crowley, Senior Programme Manager for R, D & I (CIRCULÉIRE/IMR), the programme will include both online and in‑person sessions focused on identifying and developing circular innovation opportunities. CIRCULÉIRE & Zero Waste Scotland Innovation Exchange Trip Highlights Organised by CIRCULÉIRE/IMR in partnership with Zero Waste Scotland, the Innovation Knowledge Exchange Trip took place on 9–10 September 2025, bringing members to five leading innovation and sustainability centres across Scotland. Click the image to watch the video. National Policy Statement & Roadmap on Circular Textiles Following DCEE’s Circular Textiles roadmap launch, IMR/CIRCULÉIRE will lead cross‑sector collaboration supporting innovation, skills, funding access, and SME EPR engagement. Circular Economy Innovation Grant Scheme (CEIGS) CEIGS 2026 is now open, offering €1.5 million in funding to support innovative circular economy projects across Ireland. Visit the CEIGS page to learn more. The All-Island Circular Venture Awards 2026 is now open! The All-Island Circular Venture Awards 2026 Call for Applications is now open, celebrating innovative circular economy start-ups with funding, expert coaching, networking opportunities, and investor exposure. The CIRCULÉIRE Innovation Fund 2026 is now open! The CIRCULÉIRE Innovation Fund 2026 supports collaborative circular economy demonstration projects that help Irish industry test, demonstrate and scale practical circular solutions. Click on the image for more details. Application Deadline: 31st August. Circular Explorer The Circular Explorer is an interactive infographic that maps circular economy strategies across the full product value chain, from raw material sourcing and design through manufacturing, distribution, use, and end of life. At each stage, it highlights circular opportunities, key enablers, and common barriers, alongside real‑world examples of companies already putting circular practices into action. The Explorer includes eight sector‑specific versions covering Food and Drink, Electronics, the Built Environment, Textiles, Plastics, Agri‑Bio, Pharma and Chemicals, and Transport. CIRCULEIRE Accelerator Programme 2026 The CIRCULÉIRE Accelerator, now six years strong, is scaling industry‑led circular solutions across Ireland with continued DECC support. More than 50 organisations are already transforming their value chains. Click the image to know more. Circular Skills Insights Report (2025) The CIRCULÉIRE Circular Skills Insights Report 2025 explores circular economy skills, jobs, leadership, and innovation in Irish industry, bridging the gap between strategy and operational delivery through research and training. Click the image to know more. Innovation Sprints 2026 Led by Karl Crowley, Senior Programme Manager for R, D & I (CIRCULÉIRE/IMR), the programme will include both online and in‑person sessions focused on identifying and developing circular innovation opportunities. CIRCULÉIRE & Zero Waste Scotland Innovation Exchange Trip Highlights Organised by CIRCULÉIRE/IMR in partnership with Zero Waste Scotland, the Innovation Knowledge Exchange Trip took place on 9–10 September 2025, bringing members to five leading innovation and sustainability centres across Scotland. Click the image to watch the video. National Policy Statement & Roadmap on Circular Textiles Following DCEE’s Circular Textiles roadmap launch, IMR/CIRCULÉIRE will lead cross‑sector collaboration supporting innovation, skills, funding access, and SME EPR engagement. Circular Economy Innovation Grant Scheme (CEIGS) CEIGS 2026 is now open, offering €1.5 million in funding to support innovative circular economy projects across Ireland. Visit the CEIGS page to learn more. The All-Island Circular Venture Awards 2026 is now open! The All-Island Circular Venture Awards 2026 Call for Applications is now open, celebrating innovative circular economy start-ups with funding, expert coaching, networking opportunities, and investor exposure. The CIRCULÉIRE Innovation Fund 2026 is now open! The CIRCULÉIRE Innovation Fund 2026 supports collaborative circular economy demonstration projects that help Irish industry test, demonstrate and scale practical circular solutions. Click on the image for more details. Application Deadline: 31st August. Circular Explorer The Circular Explorer is an interactive infographic that maps circular economy strategies across the full product value chain, from raw material sourcing and design through manufacturing, distribution, use, and end of life. At each stage, it highlights circular opportunities, key enablers, and common barriers, alongside real‑world examples of companies already putting circular practices into action. The Explorer includes eight sector‑specific versions covering Food and Drink, Electronics, the Built Environment, Textiles, Plastics, Agri‑Bio, Pharma and Chemicals, and Transport. CIRCULEIRE Accelerator Programme 2026 The CIRCULÉIRE Accelerator, now six years strong, is scaling industry‑led circular solutions across Ireland with continued DECC support. More than 50 organisations are already transforming their value chains. Click the image to know more. Circular Skills Insights Report (2025) The CIRCULÉIRE Circular Skills Insights Report 2025 explores circular economy skills, jobs, leadership, and innovation in Irish industry, bridging the gap between strategy and operational delivery through research and training. Click the image to know more. Innovation Sprints 2026 Led by Karl Crowley, Senior Programme Manager for R, D & I (CIRCULÉIRE/IMR), the programme will include both online and in‑person sessions focused on identifying and developing circular innovation opportunities. CIRCULÉIRE & Zero Waste Scotland Innovation Exchange Trip Highlights Organised by CIRCULÉIRE/IMR in partnership with Zero Waste Scotland, the Innovation Knowledge Exchange Trip took place on 9–10 September 2025, bringing members to five leading innovation and sustainability centres across Scotland. Click the image to watch the video. Featured Case Studies VIEW ALL Featured News Minister Dillon launches €1.5 million Circular Economy Innovation Grant Scheme Geraldine Brennan, Director of Circular Economy Innovation at IMR, and Alan Dillon TD, Minister of State with responsibility for the Circular Economy. Minister of State at the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment with special responsibility for the Circular Economy, Alan Dillon TD, has today announced the launch of the 2026 Circular Economy Innovation Grant Scheme (CEIGS), with total funding increasing from €650,000 to €1.5 million. The 2026 funding round will op 4 days ago 4 min read Right to Repair rules now apply in Ireland: What should businesses know? Sep 9 EU Commissioner for Circular Economy and Minister of State, Alan Dillon TD, visit CIRCULÉIRE member Rebox Sep 9 VIEW ALL Subscribe to our Newsletter for insights and updates Upcoming Events Circular Economy Innovation Grant Scheme (CEIGS) - Online Info Session Mon, 21 Sept Online More info Details CIRCULÉIRE Q3 Network Meeting Wed, 23 Sept Irish Manufacturing Research More info Details

CIRCULÉIRE is Ireland’s circular economy network led by Irish Manufacturing Research, uniting industry, government, and innovators to accelerate circular transition. Our Network Irish Manufacturing Research (IMR) is the Secretariat of CIRCULÉIRE, funded by the Government of Ireland’s Department of Climate, Energy and Environment (DCEE). CIRCULÉIRE is a multi-million euro cross-sectoral industry-led, public-private partnership that was co-created by IMR, and three Strategic Partners; the Department of Climate, Energy and Environment (DCEE), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and EIT Climate-KIC and 25 Founding Industry Members. Starting with 25 founding members, we have grown to a vibrant network of over 50 engaged members who are committed to circular economy transition, collaboration, and knowledge sharing. CIRCULÉIRE is actively engaging and collaborating with all stakeholders from the wider Irish Circular innovation ecosystem - government departments and agencies, academia, third sector and solution providers and provides regular opportunities to for the network to engage and collaborate within this wider ecosystem. What We Do Support the delivery of reduction in waste across our network members through product redesign; business model innovation; industrial symbiosis; materials substitution and other circularity strategies Raise awareness and increase understanding of circularity within and for Irish Industry and the wider ecosystem. Identify barriers to implementation and advise on strategies to overcome them Develop frameworks, toolkits + deep demonstrations to de-risk & prove the value of Circular Economy Inform Irish Circular Economy policy innovation. Strategic Partners The Department of Climate, Energy and Environment (DCEE) are leading the delivery the Government of Ireland’s National Climate Action Plan (2019) and the Waste Action Plan for a Circular Economy (2020-2025). In November 2022, DECC announced €1.5m continutation funding for CIRCULÉIRE in 2023. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) lead the National Waste Prevention Programme (NWPP), a Government of Ireland initiative, which supports national-level, strategic programmes to prevent waste and drive the circular economy in Ireland. EIT Climate-KIC is the largest public-private partnership in the EU dedicated to accelerating the transition to a zero-carbon, climate-resilient society, supported by the European Institute for Innovation & Technology (EIT). Governance As a public-private partnership, CIRCULÉIRE’s governance structure includes a steering group with IMR as secretary, along with permanent representation from its three strategic partners DCEE, EPA and EIT Climate-KIC, as well as representatives from industry members who rotate annually. In 2024, the Local Government Management Agency (LGMA) joined the Steering Group. Network members are invited to put themselves forward for election or nominate a peer each year. Industry representatives play a crucial feedback role between CIRCULÉIRE’s cross-sectoral Industry Members (who range from MNCs to SMEs to micro-enterprise) and the Strategic Partners – bringing industry’s perspectives to the table. 2026 Ciarán McGann Head of Manufacturing, Food & Fisheries Sector | Capital Markets Anthony O’Dea Commercial Director Mary O’Riordan Co-Founder & CEO Amanda Steward CEO 2025 Colette Van Jaarsveld Managing Director Mark O’Sullivan Global Business Development Director Donough McGrath Director of Engineering Technology Development Rory O'Dwyer Environmental Coordinator 2024 Colette Van Jaarsveld Managing Director Conor Magee Head of Manufacturing Paul Farrell Joint Chief Executive Officer Rory O'Dwyer Environmental Coordinator 2023 Lisa O'Donoghue Chief Executive Officer Mark O'Sullivan Global Business Development Director Kevin Sheridan Managing Director Paul Farrell Joint Chief Executive Officer 2022 Fergus O'Sullivan Plant Manager Kevin Cronin Chief Operating Officer Maria Couchman Senior Craft & Education Manager Neil Skeffington Chief Executive Officer 2021 Austin Geraghty Global Director, Health, Safety & Sustainability Elizabeth O'Reilly Head of Environmental Compliance & Membership Ian Ryan Energy & Utilities Manager 2020 David Callanan Senior Engineering Executive Declan O'Riordan Sustainability Manager Mark Coyne Global Sustainability Lead Contact Us Irish Manufacturing Research Unit A, Aerodrome Business Park, Rathcoole, Co. Dublin D24 WC04 08.30 – 17.00 Monday – Friday +353 (0) 1 567 5000 circuleire@imr.ie Irish Manufacturing Research, National Science Park, Dublin Rd, Mullingar, Co. Westmeath N91 TX80 08.30 – 17.00 Monday – Friday +353 (0) 1 567 5000 circuleire@imr.ie

The CIRCULÉIRE Network is your gateway to a thriving community of experts and innovators. Join us today! MEMBERSHIP TESTIMONIALS OUR MEMBERS BECOME A MEMBER The future of business is circular. By adopting a circular economy model, you can unlock a wealth of benefits, including: Reducing waste and driving innovation. Improving efficiency and profitability. Prioritizing resource efficiency and responsible practices, to create a more transparent value chain, fostering trust with investors, regulators, and customers. Understanding policy developments and meeting regulatory requirements. Working together we aim to accelerate the transition to a circular economy in Ireland and to close the circular innovation gap through cross-sectoral and interdisciplinary collaboration between Industry, government & public bodies and research organisations. Membership Opportunities The CIRCULÉIRE Network is your gateway to a thriving community of experts and innovators. Join us and Contribute to unlocking the value that resides in an Irish circular economy. Gain a competitive edge. Benefit from first-mover advantage in resource efficiency and innovative revenue models. Expand your knowledge and network. Connect with experts and peers, broadening your perspective on circularity. Simplify ESG and CSRD reporting. CIRCULÉIRE helps you communicate your emissions reduction efforts transparently. Benefit from a range of funded business supports CIRCULÉIRE Member Services 01 Baseline Estimation INCLUDED WITH MEMBERSHIP Establish a baseline hotspot estimation for your overall emissions –Scope 1 to Scope 3 Yearly estimation & impact analysis Starting point on your journey to a full GHG assessment Government subsidized – market value of 10k - 20k+ ESRS E1 Climate Change 02 Circular Maturity Assessment INCLUDED WITH MEMBERSHIP Annual self-assessment Stimulate internal dialogue around circularity and your business Understand circular capabilities Establish baseline and benchmark circular performance Gain recommendations to improve Circular Performance Government subsidized – market value of approx. 5k CSRD Relevance ESRS E5 Resource use & Circular Economy 03 Circularity Action Planning ADDITIONAL COST Understand circular capabilities Visualise how resources are used in your value chain(s) Identify where structural waste is occurring Identify circular oriented innovation opportunities to reduce costs, improve supply-chain resilience and create new value propositions ESRS E5 Resource use & Circular Economy Best Practice and Insights Resources: Insight into National and European circular innovation funding opportunities. Policy & regulation updates to help you understand and prepare for regulations that will impact your operations. Access to our Circular Economy Knowledge Library containing a range of support resources and thought leadership such as policy documents, case studies, webinars and much more. Access to CIRCULÉIRE’s Good Practice Sectoral Guides highlight the best Circular Economy practices in a variety of sectors. Networking and Collaboration: Invites to a yearly calendar of interactive networking events. Share and gain knowledge with over 50 innovative companies working on their circular transition and business model innovation across multiple sectors. Meet Circularity Experts through participating in CIRCULÉIRE Thematic Working Group Sessions, and expert lead information webinars. Opportunities to host quarterly network meetings at your site. Regular communications and check ins to support your circular transition and innovation ambitions. By joining CIRCULÉIRE your organisation is signaling commitment to circular economy transition and knowledge sharing within and outside the network. We encourage members to make a voluntary commitment to contribute towards a collective goal of Co2 and waste reduction. Fees are based on company size and number of employees in your organisation. Next Steps Please submit your Member Participation enquiry through the form below with detail on where you are on your circular transition journey and your specific needs. Our member engagement team will set up a 30 minute introductory call to give you an overview of CIRCULÉIRE and our fee structure according to your company size. We will refer you to the relevant team leads to and start the onboarding process and determine your circular transition pathway. You will be added to the network communications list and will be contacted in relation to our calendar of events and have full access to the Members Only Knowledge Library. Our Engagement Lead will schedule regular check ins to ensure that you are maximising your membership. 2024 CIRCULÉIRE Circular Venture Accelerator Cohort IMR Circular Economy Team - 2024 CIRCULÉIRE Conference 2024 CIRCULÉIRE Circular Venture Accelerator Cohort 1/12 Testimonials "The participation with CIRCULÉIRE helped the organization start the journey of understand the principles of Circular economy and the importance of the transition from linear to circular model." Camila Batista, Sustainability Leader. Masonite Our Members AGRI FOOD & DRINK AUTOMOTIVE BIO PHARMA CHEM BUILT ENVIRONMENT CONSUMER GOODS FINANCIAL SERVICES GOVERNMENT ICT/WEEE MEDICAL DEVICES PLASTICS SECOND LIFE ENABLERS TEXTILES & FASHION Contact Us to Discuss Membership

Geraldine Brennan, Director of Circular Economy Innovation at IMR, and Alan Dillon TD, Minister of State with responsibility for the Circular Economy. Minister of State at the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment with special responsibility for the Circular Economy, Alan Dillon TD, has today announced the launch of the 2026 Circular Economy Innovation Grant Scheme (CEIGS), with total funding increasing from €650,000 to €1.5 million. The 2026 funding round will open on 14 September 2026, with individual grants expected to range from €50,000 to €150,000. The increased investment represents a significant expansion of Government support for circular economy innovation and will help businesses and social enterprises to develop and implement practical solutions that reduce waste, extend the life of products and materials, and make better use of resources. Launching the 2026 scheme, Minister Dillon said: “Ireland’s transition to a circular economy presents a major opportunity to reduce waste and emissions, conserve valuable resources and build a more sustainable and resilient economy. That is why I am delighted to increase funding for the Circular Economy Innovation Grant Scheme from €650,000 to €1.5 million in 2026. “This is real investment in circular innovation. It will help organisations move beyond ideas and develop practical solutions that can be tested, implemented and scaled. Whether it is redesigning products, increasing reuse and repair, reducing food waste, finding new uses for materials or developing innovative circular business models, this funding will help turn innovation into action. “The Circular Economy Strategy 2026–2028 sets out an ambitious programme of action across Government and across key sectors of our economy. The Circular Economy Innovation Grant Scheme is an important part of delivering that ambition. By investing directly in innovators, businesses and communities, we are helping to build the solutions, business models and technologies that will make circularity a reality across Ireland.” The Circular Economy Innovation Grant Scheme is a Government initiative designed to support innovative projects that advance the circular economy in Ireland. Since its launch in April 2021, the scheme has awarded over €2.4 million to 50 projects, supporting innovation across areas including food waste, plastics, single-use plastics, packaging, construction, textiles and general waste. The 2026 scheme will place a strong emphasis on projects that can demonstrate practical implementation and measurable circular economy impacts, including approaches that keep products, components and materials in use for longer and at their highest possible value. The increased funding is aligned with the implementation of Ireland’s Circular Economy Strategy 2026–2028, which places a stronger emphasis on moving from policy development to practical delivery and identifies innovation as an important enabler of Ireland’s circular transition. For 2026, the scheme will be administered in partnership with CIRCULÉIRE and its secretariat, Irish Manufacturing Research (IMR). CIRCULÉIRE is Ireland’s Circular Innovation Network, an industry‑led, cross-sectoral, public‑private platform supporting Irish businesses to capture circular advantage since 2020. CIRCULÉIRE will manage the CEIGS application, evaluation, administrative processes, and will steward successful awardees as they deliver on their projects. Dr Geraldine Brennan, IMR’s Director of Circular Economy Innovation, said: “CIRCULÉIRE has evolved the Fund to make it more accessible and focused on impact-oriented implementation. Through broadened eligibility criteria, we are opening the door to more ambitious projects, particularly those advancing higher-value circular economy “R” strategies including “as-is reuse”, repair, remanufacturing, circular design and industrial symbiosis. “The increased funding available in 2026 provides an important opportunity for organisations to move from promising ideas to practical demonstration and implementation, generating evidence and learning that can support wider adoption of circular solutions across Ireland.” The 2026 CEIGS will support projects focused on priority areas for Ireland’s circular economy, including: Plastics: Redesigning products or packaging to reduce reliance on virgin or non-recyclable plastics and increase the use of recyclable alternatives. Construction and demolition: Developing reusable construction products and approaches that enable greater reuse and material recovery through selective demolition. Food waste: Implementing technical or behavioural interventions to prevent and reduce food waste in production and commercial settings. Resources and raw materials: Improving the recovery and reuse of critical raw materials and reducing the use of hazardous substances in products. The scheme is intended to support projects that can demonstrate tangible environmental, economic and social benefits and contribute to the wider development of a more circular Irish economy. Minister Dillon added: “The Circular Economy Strategy 2026–2028 provides the framework for accelerating Ireland’s transition to a more circular economy. But strategies only deliver when they are translated into action. This €1.5 million investment will help do exactly that – backing organisations with the ambition and ideas to change how we design, make, use, reuse and recover products and materials. “I encourage businesses, social enterprises and community and voluntary organisations with innovative circular economy projects to take advantage of this opportunity and bring forward proposals that can make a real difference.” Full details on the application process for the Circular Economy Innovation Grant Scheme are available through CIRCULÉIRE. Applications will remain open until 12 October 2026 at 23:59 Irish time. An online information session will take place on 21 September 2026. Interested applicants can register through the CEIGS information session registration page.

As of 31st July 2026, new EU Right to Repair rules apply in Ireland, introducing requirements designed to make it easier for consumers to repair certain products rather than replace them. For businesses, particularly manufacturers, the new rules are worth paying attention to. However, the Right to Repair Directive does not currently apply to every product. Its manufacturer repair obligations are linked to specific product categories for which EU legislation establishes repairability requirements. The EU Right to Repair Directive —Directive (EU) 2024/1799— is being implemented in Ireland through S.I. No. 373/2026 and forms part of a wider shift in EU policy towards longer-lasting, more repairable and circular products. As these requirements develop, including through the EU's Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR), the range of products affected may continue to expand. What does the Right to Repair Directive do? The Directive aims to make repair a more accessible and attractive option for consumers. It introduces measures to improve access to repair services and information, including new obligations for manufacturers of certain products, a European Repair Information Form and the development of an EU-wide online platform to help consumers find repair services. It is important to note, the Directive complements rather than replaces existing consumer protection rules. In Ireland, consumers already have rights when goods do not match the standard of their sales contract under the Consumer Rights Act 2022. The new Right to Repair framework introduces additional obligations with a particular impact for manufacturers and access to repair. Does the obligation to repair apply to every manufacturer? No. The obligation to repair currently applies only to products for which EU product-specific legislation establishes repairability requirements and which fall within the scope of the Directive. The current scope is mainly focused on electrical and electronic products but also includes categories such as household washing machines and washer-dryers, dishwashers, refrigerators, electronic displays, mobile phones and tablets, tumble dryers, vacuum cleaners, servers and data-storage products, welding equipment, and products incorporating light-means-of-transport batteries. Even where a product category is covered, the precise requirements will depend on the relevant product-specific EU legislation. Businesses should therefore understand both whether their products are within scope and what specific repairability requirements apply. The scope may also evolve as further product-specific repairability requirements are introduced at EU level, including through the ESPR. What does this mean for manufacturers? For products within scope, manufacturers may have a direct obligation to provide a repair when requested by a consumer, where repair is technically possible. The repair must be provided free of charge or at a reasonable price and within a reasonable period. Manufacturers with repair obligations must also make information about their repair services available to consumers in a clear and accessible way. The Directive also aims to prevent repair from being unnecessarily restricted. This includes provisions to facilitate access to certain spare parts and tools and restrictions on contractual, hardware or software practices that prevent repair without legitimate and objective justification. Importantly, manufacturers do not necessarily have to carry out repairs themselves. Repair services can be subcontracted to an external repair provider, opening opportunities for collaboration with repair networks and specialist service providers. Where a manufacturer is established outside the EU, responsibility may instead fall to its authorised representative, importer or, in certain circumstances, distributor. What about products outside warranty? The Right to Repair Directive should not be confused with a commercial warranty or consumers' existing statutory remedies for faulty products. Where consumers have remedies against a trader under existing consumer law, those rights continue to apply. The new framework is particularly relevant where a consumer seeks repair outside the seller's warranty or liability period. Depending on the product and applicable product-specific requirements, a manufacturer repair obligation may therefore apply even where a commercial warranty has expired. This does not mean manufacturers must repair every product indefinitely. Whether the obligation applies will depend on the product, its technical repairability and the relevant product-specific requirements. What else is changing? Not every element of the new repair framework is fully operational yet. A European Repair Information Form is available to help consumers compare repair conditions, prices and expected timeframes, although its use by repairers is voluntary. An EU-wide online repair platform is also being developed to make it easier for consumers to find repair services. In Ireland, RepairMyStuff.ie will provide the basis for the national platform. Together, these measures are part of a broader EU policy direction towards increasing product durability, repairability and products with a higher circularity value. What should businesses do now? Businesses can begin by: Assessing whether the products they manufacture or supply fall within the current scope of the Right to Repair rules. Identifying their role in the supply chain and whether manufacturer, authorised representative, importer or distributor obligations may apply. Reviewing existing repair services and how consumers can access information about them. Evaluating arrangements with external repair providers where repair is outsourced. Understanding the product-specific requirements that may apply to repair, spare parts and related information. Monitoring the expansion of repairability requirements under the ESPR and other EU product legislation. Even where a company's products are not currently covered, repairability is becoming an increasingly important consideration in how products are designed, manufactured and supported throughout their lifetime. How CIRCULÉIRE can help For manufacturers, the Right to Repair agenda is not only about regulatory compliance. It also raises wider questions around product design, spare parts, repair services, refurbishment, product lifetime extension and opportunities for circular business models working in the higher R strategies space such as repair, reuse, remanufacturing, refurbishment or circular design. CIRCULÉIRE members can access one-to-one Policy Clinics to better understand emerging policy and regulatory developments. Get in touch to discuss how new legislation may apply to your organisation and identify practical next steps.

Jessika Roswall, European Commissioner for Environment, Water Resilience and a Competitive Circular Economy, and Minister of State for the Circular Economy Alan Dillon TD visited Re-Box on 3 September 2026, accompanied by members of the Irish Manufacturing Research team. Dublin, 3 September 2026. Jessika Roswall, European Commissioner for Environment, Water Resilience and a Competitive Circular Economy, and Minister of State for the Circular Economy, Alan Dillon TD, participated in a site visit at Irish circular economy company Re-Box. During the visit, IMR's Director of Circular Economy Innovation, Dr Geraldine Brennan, highlighted IMR’s national and EU flagship spanning digitalisation (FxC) space (ESA Phi Lab) to renewable energy (DigiWind) with a deep dive into IMR’s circular economy innovation portfolio, spotlighting CIRCULÉIRE. The visit showcased how collaboration between industry and CIRCULÉIRE is helping to accelerate Ireland's transition from a linear to a circular economy. Dr Brennan outlined how CIRCULÉIRE's work with members such as Re-Box demonstrates the potential for circular innovation to deliver measurable environmental outcomes while strengthening business resilience and competitiveness. A key focus of the visit was Re-Box's innovative reuse model, which exemplifies the principles of the circular economy. Rather than recycling cardboard packaging after a single use, the company extends the life of existing materials by collecting, grading and reselling used cardboard boxes to Irish SMEs. This "as-is reuse" approach extends the lifespan of cardboard, reducing demand for virgin materials while lowering both costs and environmental impacts for customers. Michael Doherty, Founder and Managing Director of Re-Box, explained how reuse sits at the heart of the company's business model and how growing demand for sustainable packaging solutions is creating opportunities for circular business growth. His company keeps “a product as a product” and brings it back to the market for a fraction of the cost of virgin packaging for Irish SMEs. Re-Box collaborator and CIRCULÉIRE network member SPECO were also in attendance on this important milestone. The delegation also heard how Re-Box has collaborated with CIRCULÉIRE to measure and strengthen its circular performance. IMR's Circularity Assessment & Metrics Technologist, Daniel Whelan, outlined how the company's circularity assessment identified opportunities for further environmental improvements, including the transition from diesel vehicles to HVO fuel after fleet operations were highlighted as an emissions hotspot. Re-Box is also supporting a pioneering CIRCULÉIRE pilot project focused on developing circular metrics methodologies to quantify emissions avoided through reuse strategies. While reuse is widely recognised as one of the highest-value circular economy interventions, its full climate benefits are often not captured in conventional GHG assessments. This pilot will help advance new ways of measuring and validating the positive impacts of circular business models. Speaking during the visit, Dr Geraldine Brennan, Director of Circular Economy Innovation at IMR, said: "Today's visit demonstrates how collaboration between policymakers, research organisations and industry can accelerate the transition to a competitive circular economy. Re-Box is an outstanding example of how innovation and circular business models can unlock value while reducing resource consumption and emissions." The visit was part of Commissioner Roswall's official agenda in Ireland, which included her participation in the Environment Ireland conference. Sponsored by CIRCULÉIRE, the conference brings together leading stakeholders from across Ireland's environmental sector alongside international experts to discuss solutions that support climate action, resource efficiency and circular economy development. As Ireland and Europe continue to advance ambitious circular economy and climate goals, IMR's Circular Economy Innovation team is working with industry to develop the next generation of circular impact metrics. Through initiatives such as CIRCULÉIRE and collaborations with companies like Re-Box, IMR is helping to build the evidence base needed to demonstrate the true value of circular business models and support their adoption at scale. This important showcase was made possible through Irish Manufacturing Research's continued engagement with EU and national government stakeholders. CIRCULÉIRE supports Irish businesses to identify, test and scale circular solutions through technical expertise, research & innovation programmes, skills development and cross sector collaboration which leverages advanced technologies. Interested in joining Ireland’s Circular Innovation Network? Please get in touch.