The Government issued in May 2013 the “Hong Kong Blueprint for Sustainable Use of Resources 2013-2022”, setting out a comprehensive strategy to reduce waste and increase recovery and recycling. Effective and sustainable recycling operations are an essential component in our waste management system. In support of the sustainable development of the recycling industry, the Chief Executive announced in his 2014 Policy Address that $1 billion has been earmarked for setting up a Recycling Fund. With the approval of funding by the Finance Committee of the Legislative Council in July, 2015, the Recycling Fund was launched in Oct 2015.
Enterprise Support Programme (ESP)
The Enterprise Support Programme (ESP) provides matching funds for the projects to enhance the recycling value added chain covering source separation, collection, transportation, processing, product improvement, commercialization, marketing and sales of recycled products made from recyclables. Funding may also be provided for the training of staff to run the enhanced operation.
Funding would be provided on a matching basis, i.e. the Government will cover a maximum of 50% of the total approved project cost and the enterprise has to contribute no less than 50% of the total approved project cost in cash.
Funding support will be granted to each enterprise for a maximum of ten approved projects and the cumulative funding ceiling per enterprise is $15 million.
The duration of the Enterprise Support Programme (regular projects) shall be at least 1 year to demonstrate stable performance in achieving the project objectives. All approved project should be completed within 4 years. On the other hand, duration of Standard Projects should be within 1 year.
Industry Support Programme (ISP)
The Industry Support Programme (ISP) subsidises non-profit making projects for enhancing the operational standards and productivity of the industry, including upgrading the skills and safety of incumbent and potential employees of the local recycling industry and / or expanding its potential workforce, as well as certification and accreditation of recycling operations, etc. Funded projects should be for the benefit of the industry as a whole rather than for individual enterprises, and the project outcome should be open for sharing with members of the industry. The need, viability and cost-efficiency of proposed projects would be assessed.
Funding support for NPOs, industrial support organisations and professional bodies to conduct programmes for the upgrading and development of the recycling industry (for example, training programmes to upgrade the skills and safety of incumbent and potential employees) may cover up to 100% of approved expenditure items depending on the merits of the case.
The amount of funding will be capped at $15 million per project which may cover the costs of manpower and consumables, etc. necessary for the development and conduct of relevant training programmes and certification schemes.
Application Deadline: 30 November 2022
Details and Application: https://www.recyclingfund.hk/en/index.php
Fast Track Nomination by HKUST EC: 28 November 2022 (Please register Here)
Sharing Session: 23 November 2022 (Please register Here)