Cupping it real
A pioneering Cork-based programme has been launched providing reusable cups to community events in counties in the Southern Waste Region.
A first-of-its-kind initiative in Ireland, the Circular Cups for Community Events scheme provides access to high quality reusable cups designed to eliminate single-use waste at events.
The programme will be available to local authorities in the Southern Waste Region which includes counties Cork, Tipperary, Limerick, Clare, Waterford, Kerry, Wexford, Kilkenny, and Carlow.
The scheme, which is operated by Cork community charity IRD Duhallow, will provide easy shared access to 12,000 pint cups, 9,000 half-pint cups, and 7,000 coffee cups, all of which can be reused up to 300 times. These will be available to local organisations like sports clubs, schools, youth organisations, craft markets, and community festivals.
Through the programme, cups are delivered clean to event locations, collected after the event, and professionally washed at a dedicated facility.
Organisers will 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.
Commenting on the new programme, Mayor of County Cork, Cllr Mary Linehan Foley, described it as a fantastic resource that will empower local clubs, schools, and event organisers to significantly reduce waste and embrace greener practices.
She said: “Our local authority is proud to be a key partner in this initiative, and our environmental awareness office 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.”
The programme was launched by Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications with responsibility for Circular Economy, Alan Dillon TD who said it is “exactly the kind of grassroots, collaborative action that drives our national circular economy ambitions forward”.
“It empowers communities to actively reduce waste, embrace sustainable practices, and sets a fantastic example for the rest of the country,” said the minister.
Pauline McDonogh, circular economy co-ordinator at regional waste management planning offices added: “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 are available for all eligible events. Not-for-profit groups within the Southern Waste Region are encouraged to click here to learn more and secure their supply.