Up to 12,000 ‘high-quality reusable cups’ to be distributed at Wexford community events as part of new environmental initiative

By Simon Bourke, Wexford People

A new initiative will see “high-quality reusable cups” distributed at community events across Co Wexford as the local council seeks to reduce waste and embrace sustainable practises. The ‘Circular Cups for Community Events’ will provide pint and half-pint containers to a variety of organisations including local sports clubs, schools, youth organisations, craft markets, and community festivals to easily access hot/cold beverages with or without lids.

The cups are delivered clean to event locations, collected after the event, and professionally washed at a dedicated facility for guaranteed reuse up to 300 times. Event organisers contribute only towards the cost of transportation and a nominal washing fee, making sustainable practices accessible and affordable. A deposit for cup losses is also factored in when placing the cup order.

The stock includes 12,000 pint cups, 9,000 half-pint cups, and 7,000 coffee cups, ensuring ample supply for various event sizes.

Cliona Connolly, Environment Awareness Officer for Wexford County Council (WCC) described the initiative as a “fantastic resource that empowers our local clubs, schools, and event organisers to significantly reduce waste and embrace greener practices”.

"WCC is proud to be a key partner in this initiative and is actively working to promote its uptake and support local groups in making the switch to reusable solutions. We are also exploring potential grants to further assist local festivals in leveraging this valuable resource,” she said.

Pauline McDonogh is the Circular Economy Co-ordinator at the Regional Waste Management Planning Offices and said this project is the “culmination of extensive collaborative effort and a shared vision to make sustainable event management a reality for our communities".

"The local authorities in the Southern Waste Region, including Wexford County Council, have been instrumental in making 'Circular Cups for Community Events' a reality, from contributing to the cup stock to championing its local rollout,” she said. “Our role at Regional Waste Management Planning Offices is to facilitate the establishment of the necessary infrastructure and coordinate this region-wide partnership. We’re providing the tools and the system; our local communities and the environmental awareness officers are the vital heart driving its success on the ground."

The booking system for ‘Circular Cups for Community Events’ is now live, and reusable cups will be available for all eligible events from January 12 onwards. https://reusablecups.tenvito.com/