REconomy launches

The voluntary, community and social enterprise sector is to receive greater support in England following the creation of community interest company (CIC) REconomy by LCRN, the Community Recycling Network (CRN), Furniture Reuse Network (FRN) and the Community Composting Network (CCN).

Peter Woodwood leads a discussion with Environment Minister Hilary Benn, WRAP Chief Executive Liz Goodwin and REconomy MD Matthew Thomson

Launched at this year’s CRN conference in London, REconomy will inform, represent and develop community sustainable resource management groups, leading to an increase in waste minimisation activities, reuse and recycling. What’s more, it is hoped that the organisation will give the sector a stronger, more coherent voice in dealings with government, industry and other partners.

Speaking at the annual conference, Environment Minister Hilary Benn praised the work the sector had done so far. “ You’ve been ahead of everyone else on waste management, you pioneered kerbside recycling, and it’s a terrific achievement.”
He acknowledged the sector was valuable to wider society, especially with its ties with the local community and the opportunities it provides.

He added: “My challenge to all of you today is to keep innovating. To retain your community links. To be better, to be more efficient. And to lead the charge in achieving that target. And if you strive for that, then you’ll have our support all the way.”

REconomy’s core team will be drawn from all four networks, based in London, Bristol, Sheffield and the regions. Matthew Thomson, Managing Director of REconomy, said: Some will say it’s been too long coming, but I am delighted to have been able to play a part in creating this exciting new company. The networks’ 1,000 members working on the frontline deserve more joined up support and representation, and we are fortunate to have the backing of Defra and WRAP to make that support real and meaningful.”

Following on from Benn, Liz Goodwin, Chief Executive of the Waste & Resources Action Programme (WRAP), introduced WRAP’s new Third Sector Capacity Building Programme, which REconomy will deliver. The funding highlights five strands to improve the capacity of community projects; Organisational Development; Market Development; Networking and Training; Investment for Growth; and Projects.

Benn added: “We are committed to helping to create a strong, independent third sector. We want to develop the contribution that third sector organisations can make. And we know that often you need help to get off the ground. So that’s what we’re trying to provide with this scheme.”

To get in touch with REconomy, go to: www.reconomy.org.uk or telephone 0845 2178984.