Qualifying and quantifying the reuse sector in Ireland

Reuse involves taking a product that someone is finished with and reusing it for the same purpose it was used for before. The Q2Reuse research project (2019-2021) investigates methodologies to assess and measure the Irish reuse sector–a future requirement for EU Member States. Asystematic review of the reuse landscape in Ireland was undertaken, providing insights into how the sector can be quantified, developed and compared to other EU Member States. Available literature on eight other regions was first analysed and combined with personal communication to determine an overview of good practices in other countries, drawing lessons for Ireland, and identifying gaps in the information that was needed to be gathered. Together with reuse practitioners in Ireland, the research team then developed methodologies for the qualitative as well as quantitative assessment of the sector. Through small-scale piloting, the methodologies have been refined and barriers to data gathering identified. This paper details the products that are included, the criteria for inclusion and the specificity of the Irish context. The project has tested the capability of the Irish reuse sector to supply necessary data and inform Irish policy makers on required supports to the sector. By developing a national quantification methodology for the assessment of the sector, this research will provide policy makers, stakeholders and practitioners with a crucial overview of the non-waste reuse sector in Ireland; vital information as Ireland and the EU move to implement reuse targets supporting reuse to its place as an essential climate action in the circular economy.