The funding will go towards Reuse Network, Library of Things (LoT) and Sheltersuit UK.
Kevin Bradshaw, CEO of Viridor, said: “Reuse is a cornerstone of the circular economy and an essential step in building a more sustainable future.
“These organisations reflect Viridor’s mission to create a world where nothing goes to waste and I am delighted that Viridor is supporting this important sector – as we work together to drive meaningful impact on people, the planet and the way we think about resource use.”
Reuse Network
The waste management company has an ongoing partnership with Reuse Network which supports UK charities which are dedicated to reuse.
It will receive £35,000 of the funding to go towards digital support for its members, media campaigns and roadshows, and advancing their research capabilities.
Craig Anderson, CEO of Reuse Network, said: “We are incredibly grateful for Viridor’s continued support as our strategic partner for the fourth year running. Their commitment has been instrumental in helping us ensure that the reuse sector is recognised and supported. Through this partnership, we have raised awareness of the importance of reuse, created new opportunities for our network, and empowered communities to embrace sustainability.
“Developing the reuse sector requires collaboration, and we are proud to work alongside Viridor to drive meaningful change. By extending the life of products and keeping valuable resources in use for longer, we can significantly reduce environmental impact while supporting those in need. Together, we are building a future where everyone can create a sustainable home.”
Library of Things (LoT)
£20,000 has gone towards LoT which enables users to rent household items from local high streets.
The charity will launch a “Sharing Library Incubator” and “Seed Fund” later this year to help communities kick-start their own sharing libraries in towns and cities across the UK.
The funding will be used to hire a leader to deliver the projects and communication materials to support the initiatives.
Rebecca Wetten, co-director of LoT, said: “Community-led initiatives – like sharing libraries – play a crucial role in powering the behaviour change needed for a society that borrows instead of buys.
“Sharing cuts carbon, reduces waste, and supports Net Zero goals. It brings communities together to boost skills, create local jobs, and help revitalise high streets by activating empty spaces. Borrowing, sharing and repairing are critical ingredients for circular, resilient communities.
“It’s partnerships like this that can create a tipping point for our vision; a high-impact sharing library in every neighbourhood, powering sharing towns and cities.”
Sheltersuit UK
Sheltersuit UK will also receive £20,000 which will pay for a machinist’s salary for eight months, as well as cover the cost of materials and contribute to producing 700-800 Shelter bags in this time.
The charity was founded during lockdown in 2021 to make survival clothing out of repurposed waste nylons and polyesters for those experiencing homelessness.
To date, Sheltersuit UK has prevented approximately 5,000kg of textile waste from going to landfill.
Ian Sutherland McCook, CEO of Sheltersuit UK, said: “Sheltersuit UK protects rough sleepers by manufacturing the Shelterbag, a weatherproof insulated portable shelter.
“These Shelterbags are made from waste nylons and polyesters that would otherwise go to landfill, endlessly releasing greenhouse gases and microplastics. We also employ ex-refugees, taking them off benefits and into the labour market, where they contribute to the UK economy in taxes and National Insurance.
“Our motto is ‘people helping people’, and our partnership with Viridor exemplifies this. Their support is enabling us to employ more people who are distanced from the labour market – people often condemned to a life on benefits.
“The support also allows us to almost double our production, by protecting an additional 700-800 rough sleepers per year. With Viridor’s help, we are much more effectively dealing with the tragic situation on the streets of the UK.”
Subscribe for free