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Seaside Events Urged to Ditch Single-Use Plastics
4 Aug
Summary
- Charity criticizes seaside events for excessive single-use plastics and poor recycling.
- Some event organizers cite challenges and plan improvements for future reusable cups.
- Town council states organizers are required to submit waste management plans.
A charity focused on reducing plastic waste has called for seaside event organizers to enhance their efforts in cutting down single-use plastics and boosting recycling rates. The Weymouth and Portland Marine Litter Project has expressed disappointment with several events held in Weymouth, pointing out the use of disposable cups and a lack of adequate recycling facilities.
The charity has collaborated with Weymouth Town Council to offer guidance to event planners. However, it remains a point of frustration that single-use plastics persist and recyclable materials are often disposed of with general waste, leading to incineration. Last year's National Lifesaving Championships were highlighted as a positive example, having provided recycling bins and reusable cups.
Organizers of recent events, like the Weymouth Volleyball Club's beach tournament on June 27, 2026, stated they left the beach spotless and are open to discussing solutions for disposable cups for next year. The Weymouth Beach Rugby Festival organizers noted they switched to disposable cups due to insufficient reusable stock but plan to order more for 2027. The Weymouth Seafood Festival reported its waste was sent for energy recovery through incineration.
Weymouth Town Council confirmed that event organizers submit waste management plans, and their officers monitor compliance. Issues identified are addressed with the organizers, either during or after the event.
