Community minded businesses, such as cafes and shops, are being encouraged to join a growing movement to help the environment. The concept is simple. Reduce the number of plastic bottles being thrown away by inviting people to re-fill their water bottles with tap water for free.
Refill is a win-win situation - good for the environment, good for people’s health to hydrate with water rather than sugary drinks, and good PR for the businesses and charities that open their doors to thirsty passers-by. What began as a local campaign in Bude, has now attracted national appeal with a diverse range of businesses across UK towns and cities volunteering as Refill stations. Refill Devon, the county’s campaign, began last year, and participants are steadily growing in number, from cafes and restaurants to phone shops, garden centres and estate agents. All businesses need to do is display a round, blue Refill sticker in their front window, and allow thirsty folk in to refill their plastic bottle - simple.
It’s estimated that in the UK 800 plastic bottles per minute end up being disposed of as litter, and all too often make their way into our waterways and out to sea. Devon County Council, South West Water and Beach Care, which is part of the Keep Britain Tidy campaign, are promoting and funding Refill Devon.
To reduce the number of plastic bottles ending up in our oceans and save money at the same time, find out more about Refill Devon. Visit the Recycle Devon website where you will find details of how to download the app with the location of participating businesses, how to become a Refill Station and how you can register your interest to become a Refill Devon volunteer. www.recycledevon.org/welcome-to-refill-devon