A new returnable cup scheme at a Dorset country park could save over 200,000 single-use cups a year with an annual reduction in carbon emissions of around 20 tonnes.
Litter Free Dorset has launched the initiative at Moors Valley Country Park and Forest in partnership with Dorset Council, Forestry England and sustainable drinkware specialist Circular & Co.
Visitors can enjoy their hot drinks in returnable cups that are borrowed at the point of sale and can be returned to food and drink outlets on the site.
The scheme is expected to pave the way for other attractions and venues to make similar changes.
Karl Prince, Country Parks Manager at Dorset Council, said: “As Moors Valley has grown and developed over the years there has been a noticeable shift towards visitors wanting more food and drink ‘on the go’.
“Ensuring the site offers both convenience and sustainability is something the rangers strive to achieve.
“This innovative scheme introduces a simple, convenient and modern way of implementing a reusable cup solution and helps us to reduce waste.
“The rangers are excited to work with Circular&Co. and are keen for this to help them achieve their goal of eliminating single-use waste.”
Currently most takeaway drink cups – including those marked compostable or biodegradable – are sent to incineration with general waste as they require specific industrial composting processes that are not yet widely available.
Emma Teasdale, Litter Free Dorset Coordinator, said: “We are thrilled to be launching this pioneering new scheme at Moors Valley, which will be a huge step towards making Dorset more sustainable for everyone and will pave the way for other attractions and venues to make similar changes.”
Nick Wardlaw, District Recreation Manager at Forestry England, said: “Moors Valley Country Park and Forest is a great place to enjoy spending time outdoors and connect with nature.
“Returnable cups can now be easily picked up at any of our cafes and kiosks.
“It is a really simple way that visitors can make a choice that helps to care for this special place by creating less waste, reducing litter and making carbon savings.”
Alex Beaton, Commercial Sales Manager – Returnables, at Circular&Co., said: “We are delighted to see TAP&REUSE™ become a permanent addition at Moors Valley Country Park and Forest.
“Over the past few months, it has been a pleasure working with Litter Free Dorset, Dorset Council and Forestry England to grow the reuse revolution.
“We look forward to seeing the true impact of our partnership over the coming years.”