Three new projects in Scotland to bring about a ‘zero waste’ society have been awarded £10 million by Zero Waste Scotland.

The Scottish government programme is backing schemes which encourage recycling, prevent litter or cut down on food waste.

The Litter and Flytipping Fund is offering grants of £2,000-50,000 for projects that test new ideas to tackle fly-tipping and assist the Scottish government’s draft Litter Strategy. Businesses, local authorities, charities, NGOs and community and third sector organisations can all apply.

The Recycling Communications Fund will be used to help local authorities increase the quality and quantity of materials they recycle by improving awareness of the services they offer. Local authorities can apply for up to £1.50 per household to roll out any new scheme.

And grants of £3,000 to £30,000 will be available from the Consumer Behaviour Innovation Fund to support projects that find new ways to cut food waste and increase recycling by influencing how people behave. Funding is available to organisations, third sector groups and businesses.

Iain Gulland the Director of Zero Waste Scotland, said: “It is particularly important that we support people to practice the right behaviours through education, awareness and practical encouragement.  These new funds – part of our strategic commitment to a zero waste society – will help people to reduce litter and waste and increase recycling and re-use.”