Cafes in Inverness sign up for the Highland Cup Movement around the NC500
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A new movement in the Highlands has started today in order to reduce the amount of single use cups that are used and discarded on the NC500 route.
Highland Cup Movement has been launched by the environmental charity, Keep Scotland Beautiful, in order to make it easier for people to make the switch from single-use cups to reusable ones for their takeaway drinks.
The pilot scheme will see 25 businesses taking part, where customers can take away a reusable cup for free, and then return it to the same venue or another one taking part.
What cafes are taking part in the scheme in Inverness?
XOKO Bakehouse, Utopia, Whisk Away and Corner on The Square in Beauly
How can I register for the scheme?
- You must download the Vytal app, where you will be asked to put in your bank card details
- The server in the cafe will then scan your QR code on the app and the one on the cup
- You can then take it away and return it to any of the cafes that are participating in the scheme within 14 days
- If you don't bring the cup back within 14 days you will automatically be charged £4 but then the cup is yours to keep
Why is the Highland Cup Movement being launched?
A survey conducted of people in the Highlands by the environmental charity discovered that 82 per cent are concerned about the amount of single-use takeaway cups used and 81 per cent agree that takeaway venues need to do more to make it easier to choose a reusable cup.
Tara Jaffray, owner of Corner on the Square in Beauly, said: “We all have to take the chance to do our bit, and reduce waste at every given opportunity.
"As a new owner of a hospitality business offering takeaway, I am very conscious of the amount of single use cups we use. I am delighted to be taking part in this trial initiative and hope to educate and encourage as many customers as possible to join the Highland Cup Movement.”
Those who download and use the Vytal App during May for the first time will be able to enjoy a free hot drink at participating businesses.
Catherine Gee, deputy chief executive of Keep Scotland Beautiful, added: “While the convenience of single use cups often wins over reusable options, they come at a cost, to our environment, and also for those businesses using them to sell their hot and cold drinks in.
“Single use cups are a classic example of the throwaway culture that we want to help change. Millions of single use cups are wasted every year, and we want to make reuse the norm.
“Our planned trial of a reusable cup scheme in collaboration with NorthCoast 500, Zero Waste Scotland and Highland Good Food Partnership builds on the learning from our innovative Cup Movement in Glasgow.
“I’d urge everyone to download the Vytal App and get drinking guilt free coffee.”
How do I get involved if I run a business?
Businesses must register with Vytal, and then you will be sent a designated amount of reusable cups. You will then be added onto the interactive map of the region for people to see.
