Reusable cup scheme launches in Stirling

A total of 14 businesses across the city will now offer customers a reusable cup for a £1 refundable deposit, which they can get back by returning it to any participating café. 

It’s part of the Ditching Disposables initiative from Zero Waste Scotland, an earlier trial of which saw six businesses in Edinburgh cut their use of single-use items by up to 99%. 

So far 14 cafes are taking part in the scheme in Stirling, including Darnley Coffee House, Kings Park Pavilion, Piece Out and Village Café at The Peak Leisure Centre.  

Ditching single-use items is one of the most effective actions businesses can take to reduce their contribution to climate change. Around 80% of Scotland’s carbon footprint is down to the products we make, use, and throwaway – and single-use items are a completely avoidable contributor to that figure. 

There are also reputational benefits for businesses in switching to reusable alternatives, from responding to customer demand for more sustainable options to a reduction in branded single-use litter. What’s more, ditching disposable items can help businesses close the gap on their own net zero goals and save money by negating the need to re-order items that are thrown away after one use. 

Iain Gulland, Chief Executive of Zero Waste Scotland, said: 

“Single-use items are emblematic of our throwaway culture, which it’s vital we change if we’re serious about tackling the climate crisis. 

“Choosing to reuse is one of the best things we can all do for the environment, and the Ditching Disposables initiative has a proven track record of supporting businesses and consumers to live their best sustainable lifestyle. 

“I look forward to the valuable insights the scheme will provide over the next six months and would encourage citizens, visitors and the Stirling business community alike to get involved.” 

Craig Wilkie, owner of Kings Park Pavilion, said:  

“Kings Park Pavilion signed up to Ditching Disposables to try and tackle the amount of single use disposable cups we use for takeaway drinks. Our café gets a lot of takeaway trade throughout the year, but particularly in the spring and summer months. We are really keen to monitor the impact of the reusable cups on reducing wasteful single use cups and lids. 

“We hope to work with our customers to engage them in the scheme and give them a better takeaway experience, whilst reducing waste, and hopefully saving money on disposable cups. 

“The scheme represents a great opportunity to test the reusable cup model and we are looking forward to sharing our experience with other cafes in Stirling.” 
Ditching Disposables Stirling will run until October 5, with other local hospitality venues keen to join the reuse revolution encouraged to sign up throughout the trial."