The rx3 (rethink recycle remake) initiative is hosting two new competitions to find bright business ideas involving waste materials.
The competitions are being run as part of the Sustainable Innovation Forum, which rx3 is hosting at the Royal Hospital in Kilmainham, Dublin, on 27 April 2010.
The deadline for registration of interest in each competition is Thursday 4 February.
Trash to Cash
In the “Trash to Cash” competition, students will come up with artwork, products and business ideas from waste materials. You must work with at least one of the following materials: paper, plastic, organics, rubber, wood, metals and glass.
The competition is open to all third-level students and anyone who has completed their formal studies in the years 2008 and 2009.
Entrants are free to team up with students in other faculties, colleges and disciplines (such as design colleges, business schools, engineering and science faculties).
The total prize fund of €5,000 will be split across the categories. All shortlisted entries will be exhibited at the forum in April.
60 Green Minutes
In the “60 Green Minutes” competition, participants will present business ideas that take something disposable and transform it into something of greater use and value.
Six shortlisted participants will pitch their ideas over 60 minutes in a “Dragons’ Den” style presentation at the forum. The overall winner will receive €10,000 to develop the project.
About rx3 and the forum
rx3, formerly known as the Market Development Programme for Waste Resources, was established by the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government to help develop recycling markets in Ireland and reduce our dependence on markets abroad.
The Sustainable Innovation Forum will showcase recycled products andhighlight the latest ideas around sustainability and design. It will also provide information and support to organisations and individuals who have an interest in the waste marketplace.
Check rx3′s website for details on the competitions and the forum
