One of our main projects this summer has been building momentum on the new Waste Reduction Bill, introduced by the Green Party, due for debate in the Dail this evening. This bill would make Ireland cleaner and greener. By banning disposable plastic plates, cups, and other tableware, (including one of the most notoriously inefficient single-use items, plastic coffee cups) take-aways, coffee shops and supermarkets would be encouraged to offer compostable packaging. Additionally, we encourage shops to offer discounts to patrons who bring their own reusable containers and coffee cups. The Conscious Cup Campaign have recently launched and are asking coffee shops to support the transition away from single use coffee cups and support people who bring a reusable cup by offering a discount.
The waste bill would also introduce a deposit/refund scheme for drinks containers to motivate people to return their glass and plastic bottles and aluminum cans to reclaim their deposit. Incentives like these will reduce the amount of litter strewn around our countryside, streams and beaches.A few weeks ago, we sent a letter to Minister Naughten with the support of 17 environmental groups encouraging the government to bring this bill forward for consideration and we have also been reaching out to Tidy Towns groups around the country. By working hard on the campaign at the grassroots level and lobbying for the bill to pass, we are hoping to spread awareness and excitement about what would surely be a landmark achievement.There are many ways you can join the campaign!
- Ask your local TD to support the bill - you can #tweetyourtrash or send them an email
- Tell your local community group like Tidy Towns, Lions Clubs and GAA about us and we'll send them an information pack
- Tell your local coffee shop about the Conscious Cup Campaign
- Take on the Plastic Free July challenge and join others saying no to plastic
And don't forget - refuse, reduce, reuse and recycle.Thanks for your support!
