West Sussex community grant redirects 94 tonnes of waste and strengthens local ties
County council partners with Biffa for environment-friendly initiatives
West Sussex County Council is celebrating the remarkable success of its Waste Prevention Community Grant Fund, established in partnership with Biffa and ten local community groups.
Launched in 2025, the initiative awards grants to various organisations, including charities, Community Interest Companies, and residents' associations, aiming to reduce household waste and maximise the circulation of useful items.
A total of £50,000 was allocated to ten projects throughout West Sussex, each developing schemes from bicycle refurbishment to repair cafés and furniture provision for residents in need.
Beyond waste reduction, the projects emphasised community engagement and skill-building, delivering substantial environmental benefits:
Almost 94 tonnes of diverse materials such as electrical items, textiles, food, and furniture were diverted from disposal.
Energy savings equated to powering 5,640 televisions for a year.
Carbon dioxide emissions of 208 tonnes were prevented, similar to removing 45 cars from the road for a year.
Cllr Natasha Davie, Cabinet Member for Environment & Climate Change, praised the impact of the fund, stating, "The Waste Prevention Community Grant Fund demonstrates how local organisations can make a real difference to both people and the environment. The projects we have supported are helping residents when they need it most, encouraging community connections, developing valuable skills and reducing the amount of waste produced across West Sussex."
The initiatives also provided over 560,000 opportunities for community participation, fostering resilience, reducing social isolation, and supporting disadvantaged residents by enhancing access to affordable goods and services.
Cllr Davie expressed enthusiasm for the continued work of the projects, adding, "It's fantastic to see the lasting impact these projects are having and I'm delighted that many of them will be able to continue their work beyond the initial funding. I look forward to seeing what they achieve in the future."
Susie Chasmar, Biffa West Sussex Contracts Director, commended the collaboration, saying, "We are incredibly proud to have partnered with West Sussex County Council on the Waste Prevention Community Grant Fund and to see the positive impact it has delivered across local communities."
Planning is underway for a new round of funding, set to launch in late summer 2026.
Further details about the Waste Prevention Community Grant Fund can be found on the West Sussex County Council's website.