March 2021

Innovate UK has opened funds for projects in smart & sustainable plastic packaging

UK Businesses can apply for a share of up to £16m, from the Industrial Strategy Challenge Fund. The funding competition seeks to tackle packaging waste by supporting "business-led projects" which demonstrate environmental benefits for humans, wildlife and the wider environment.

Anyone looking to enter into the funding competition must be able to quantify the benefits of their new approach in comparison to the system they intend to replace or improve. Entrants will need to explain how they are innovating to address at least one of the UK Plastics Pact targets. The list of four targets includes the complete elimination of single-use plastic packaging by 2025, and for 100 per cent of plastic packaging to be reusable, recyclable or compostable.

Innovate UK says the competition is particularly interested in projects relating to refillable packaging and systems and sustainable solutions relating to film and flexible packaging.

Additionally, innovations that encourage behavioural changes among consumers are also welcomed.

More information is available at https://apply-for-innovation-funding.service.gov.uk/competition/817/overview

The deadline is 24th March 2021 at 11am