The PlasticFreeGM scheme is delivered by GMCA and is asking businesses, organisations and individuals to take the pledge to take action to reduce avoidable single use plastics across Greater Manchester. It works with campaigning partners to provide information and advice to guide more sustainable choices.
Refill Greater Manchester is a part of the efforts to reduce use of single use plastics in the city-region. Earlier this year the first fountain was installed in St Mary’s Park, Prestwich and a number of cafes and restaurants have already signed up as free Refill Stations.
Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham said: “In Greater Manchester we are committed to stamping out avoidable single-use plastics. Fountains like this one are just one way we are trying to do this, making it easier for people to use refillable bottles and cutting down on the amount of plastic waste harming our environment. This is a really positive scheme that I hope people will make the most of.”
The average adult buys more than 3 plastic water bottles every week*1 – a startling 175 bottles every year per person. In total, some 7.7 billion plastic bottles are bought across the UK each year, resulting in substantial amounts of single-use plastic waste. Having access to free tap water is not simply the good choice for the environment, but your health too.
Chris Matthews, Head of Sustainability, United Utilities added: “We’re delighted to be supporters of the Greater Manchester Refill campaign and to be helping Refill Ramsbottom provide locals and visitors with great tasting tap water on the go. I can’t think of a better to place to install the fountain, at the heart of the Incredible Edible Garden, to encourage more people to ditch single-use plastic and live sustainably”.
Find out more about Refill and how you can take part at the Refill website at www.refill.org.uk/refill-greater-manchester. Download the free Refill app and find out more about the Refill movement.
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