Expanding Cup Recycling in the Highlands
National Cup Recycling Scheme showcases Highland success at Sustainable Packaging Awards
The National Cup Recycling Scheme (NCRS) are delighted to announce we have been shortlisted for the Sustainable Packaging Awards 2024, under the category Social Value Within a Community / Circular Economy.
Our project, "Expanding Cup Recycling in the Scottish Highlands – A Model for Community-Led Circular Solutions," highlights how we brought cup recycling to one of the most remote areas in the UK.
Meeting the challenge
The Scottish Highlands face unique challenges when it comes to waste. With a scattered population and limited recycling facilities, many recyclable paper cups still end up in landfill or as litter.
Working with the Highland Community Waste Partnership (HCWP), led by Keep Scotland Beautiful, NCRS set out to create a simple solution that would work for these rural communities.
The Cup Box solution
We introduced the Cup Box, an easy-to-use collection system placed in busy local areas. People and businesses can drop their used cups into the Cup Boxes, and the cups are then collected and recycled into new paper products.
This system was supported by local engagement efforts, drawing on experience from campaigns like #TakeItBack and the Cup Movement, making it easier for communities to get involved and make a difference.
Key impacts
23 Cup Boxes were installed across the Highlands, giving communities their first cup recycling options
Based on average collection rates, the scheme will capture around 16,000 cups a year. So far, five full Cup Boxes have already been collected
Flexible for Businesses:
Businesses can fill a Cup Box at their own pace — from one month to six months — making it cost-effective and practical for all sizes
Community Awareness:
Events and outreach helped raise awareness about recycling and encouraged lasting behaviour change
Supporting the Circular Economy:
The collected cups are turned into new, high-quality paper products, keeping valuable resources in use
Ready to Grow:
The success of the Highlands project shows that this model can be expanded to other rural areas
What's next?
Following this success, NCRS plans to:
-
Expand the Cup Box network further
-
Work with more local businesses and councils
-
Make cup recycling even easier for communities across the UK
In Summary...
This project shows the power of partnership. Together with HCWP, we’ve proven that even remote areas can be part of a circular economy. By making cup recycling simple and accessible, we're helping to create lasting positive change for people and the planet.
