Community Zero Emissions Grant helps the ReCyclery change gears
For over a decade, the ReCyclery helped hundreds of Canberrans get their bikes up and rolling.
But, like a well-loved bike, the facility was due for an overhaul.
Canberra Environment Centre acting Director, Zoe, was part of the team that revitalised the ReCyclery with the help of a 2020-21 Community Zero Emissions Grant.
The challenge
“Cycling is a great way for people to move about our community that is easy on our wallets, our health and the environment,” Zoe said.
“Unfortunately, many Canberrans find the idea of cycling intimidating and even expensive – particularly in the beginning.
“That’s where the ReCyclery comes in. We show people that a bike doesn’t have to be an expensive purchase or costly to maintain.
“We offer users an endless supply of second-hand bike parts, specialist tools, expert advice, and regular workshops to empower people to develop basic bike maintenance skills and get them riding with confidence.
“Transport accounts for about 60% of the ACT’s total emissions, so it is super important to support sustainable modes of transport, like cycling, to tackle climate change and help our community.
“Active travel and the circular economy are more important now than ever, which is why we felt that the ReCyclery needed a boost.”
The action
“We applied for a Community Zero Emissions Grant to pay for a consultancy and design work, equipment for the Recyclery manager and the workshop, and promotional materials.
“The work that we did with the support of the grant made everything easier to access – equipment, parts, bikes, workshops and expert advice.
The benefit
“We were really excited when we opened the up-cycled Recyclery – and so were the community. Business at the Reyclery is booming.
“We’re now running three ‘Cycle Jam’ free workshops per week where individuals are instructed on how to fix their own bikes. One weekly session is dedicated to women and non-binary people.
“We are helping so many Canberrans get back on a bike while also diverting bicycles from landfill. Proceeds from sale of bikes refurbished by volunteers now fund the new project manager’s role for 4 days per week, ensuring that the great work can continue.”
Acknowledgement of Country
We acknowledge the Ngunnawal people as traditional custodians of the ACT and recognise any other people or families with connection to the lands of the ACT and region. We acknowledge and respect their continuing culture and the contribution they make to the life of this city and this region.