Dublin: Belfast is set to become the first city in Ireland and the UK to eliminate single-use plastic cups at event venues. Major venues such as the SSE Arena, Waterfront Hall, Ulster Hall, Oh Yeah Centre, Black Box, Voodoo, and The MAC will introduce reusable cups in a 12-month pilot project starting mid-January, with additional venues joining in later phases.
North Down Marquees will manage the delivery, collection, and washing of reusable cups at a central facility in Carryduff before redistribution. The initiative, supported by the Venue Sustainability Forum and Visit Belfast, aims to eliminate two million single-use cups annually, reducing 40 tonnes of plastic waste.
Venue leaders have praised the programme for addressing safety concerns while promoting sustainability. Dermot McGinn of The SSE Arena called the move a “proud step” towards environmental responsibility, while Kathryn McShane of the Black Box highlighted its potential to drastically cut waste and encourage sustainable choices. The MAC’s Emmett Ross emphasised its alignment with their focus on climate action.
Visit Belfast hailed the initiative as a groundbreaking collaboration, showcasing the city’s commitment to a more sustainable future.
Irish Samachar English News
{OR} Kindly click to follow the Irish Samachar News channel on WhatsApp