Ireland is stepping up its sustainability efforts with the launch of its first-ever “Circular Cups for Community Events” programme, introduced by Minister of State for the Circular Economy, Alan Dillon TD. The initiative, a collaborative effort by the Southern Region Waste Planning Office, local authorities and IRD Duhallow provides not-for-profit community events across the Southern Waste Region with reusable cups designed to replace single-use plastics.
The Southern Waste Region, which spans counties such as Wexford, Tipperary, Limerick and Cork, will now benefit from access to a shared stock of high-quality reusable cups—ranging from pint and half-pint cups to hot and cold beverage cups. This initiative not only tackles the issue of waste at local events but also promotes a circular economy by ensuring the cups can be reused up to 300 times, contributing to significant environmental benefits.
Minister Dillon highlighted the grassroots nature of the programme, noting its importance in driving Ireland’s broader circular economy ambitions. “This initiative empowers communities to take action, reduce waste, and sets a fantastic example for the rest of the country,” he said at the launch.
The initiative provides reusable cups on loan to local sports clubs, schools, youth organisations and community festivals with the service managed by IRD Duhallow. The programme covers the full lifecycle of the cups: delivery, cleaning and collection post-event, with a minimal contribution from event organisers towards transport and washing fees.
“This is a culmination of extensive collaboration and shared vision to make sustainable event management a reality for our communities,” said Pauline McDonogh, Circular Economy Co-ordinator at the Southern Waste Planning Offices.
The booking system for “Circular Cups for Community Events” is now live and the service will be available to all eligible not-for-profit events from January 12th, 2026. Local authorities, including Wexford County Council, are actively encouraging event organisers to embrace the programme as part of their ongoing commitment to sustainability.
How It Works:
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Reusable Cups: A range of reusable cups for hot and cold beverages, including pint and half-pint options.
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Convenience: Cups are delivered clean, collected after the event and professionally washed for reuse.
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Affordable: Organisers pay a nominal fee for transportation and cleaning, with a deposit for potential cup losses.
For more details and to book reusable cups for your event, visit the official programme website.
