Choose to reuse

Do you use a reusable cup?

Reuse is the best way to save hundreds of single-use cups from being used in the first place.

We are working hard to make it as easy as possible to #ChooseToReuse.  We encourage people to take their own reusable cup for a takeaway drink, but we also support businesses allowing customers to access reusables at the point of sale, rather than having to bring their own.

Find out more about our work to encourage reuse in Scotland.

Did you know that most major coffee retailers, and many independents, offer rewards when you use your reusable cup? And in others, reusables are treated as the default, with a small charge added onto single-use purchases.

This is because there is more and more recognition of the importance of moving away from single-use items where possible.

Through the Highland Cup Movement and our returnable packaging pilot we are encouraging the use of reusable cups and packaging across the Highlands.  To find out more, read the  Highland Cup Movement report.

So, be part of the change and make the move to a reusable cup. The planet, and your pocket, will thank you for it.

There is no denying that 'disposable' single-use items are pretty convenient, whether at the retailer end or for the consumer. They fuel our busy on-the-go lifestyles at little cost or so we thought. 

We now know that material waste is a big issue, as reflected by the banning of many single-use items and transitioning towards a more circular economy, where 'waste' is re-framed as a resource and minimised by clever design.   

Reuse is a big part of this. So, how do we effectively transition towards a model where reusables are used as much as possible? 

This is one of the issues that the Cup Movement is looking at. And the only way to find solutions that work, is to work together. There is great incentive to get on board to increase reuse given the Scottish Government's proposal to introduce a single-use cup charge.

The Highland Community Waste Partnership are working on this now. See their #ChooseToReuse page for on-the-go businesses to find out more. 

Using your cup

When do you usually use single-use cups? Is it when you shop, travel or as part of your daily commuting routine?

Can you remember to pack a reusable cup to use instead?

One of the challenges with reusables is having them to hand when you need them. Here's some things to consider:

• Add it to your check-list for leaving the house: keys, wallet, phone....cup!
• Store it in your bag
• Remember to wash and dry it, ready for the next use.

And remember, your cup can be handier than you think. Use it for all manner of hot and cold drinks and foods -coffees, teas, soups or smoothies!  Every time you use it that is one less single-use container getting used and discarded.