The Re-turn bin scheme for recycling bottles and cans is expanding with 20 new bin surrounds installed in Galway City Centre.
Carlow, Clare, Cavan, Westmeath, and Meath will follow over the coming months as the bin surrounds programme continues to expand.
This expansion builds on the successful rollout of 80 bin surrounds in Dublin City Centre, and an additional 24 in Dun Laoghaire Harbour.
This initiative aims to make on-the-go recycling visible and accessible while reducing litter and preserving valuable recyclable materials.
Mayor of the City of Galway, Councillor Mike Cubbard, said, “We’re proud to bring this initiative to Galway, a city known for its vibrant community and forward-thinking spirit.”
“Sustainability begins at the local level, and this bin surround initiative shows how thoughtful design can lead to a lasting impact.”
“By making recycling and returns more visible and accessible, we’re empowering the people of Galway to take simple steps that make a real difference to our environment.”
Research from Re-turn found that containers left on the bin surrounds were collected on average within 16 minutes.
A survey carried out by Re-turn reveals that 79% of the public support on-the-go recycling schemes and would welcome a similar scheme in their local area.
Fergal Cushen, Environmental Awareness Officer, Galway City Council, said, “This is one of several steps the City Council is taking to make Galway a more circular city, while making it as convenient and visible as possible for members of the public to contribute.”
“There may be tourists or people passing through Eyre Square who won’t have the opportunity to return their bottle or can.”
“These new bin surrounds mean their cans and bottles stay segregated from general waste and can be recycled properly – with the person doing the recycling collecting 15 cents every time.”
“It is a great initiative and fitting that it is being launched at the start of Galway City Council’s Climate Inspirations Festival.”
Coastwatch recently reported the lowest plastic bottle and can litter levels on Irish shores in 25 years, a trend reinforced by IBAL’s August survey, which showed a 50% increase in clean coastal sites.
This next phase is being co-funded on an equal basis by Re-turn and participating local authorities, working together to deliver practical solutions that support cleaner streets, stronger recycling habits, lower landfill rates, and a reduction in environmental pollution.
Commenting on the launch, Ciaran Foley, CEO of Re-turn, said, “Re-turn is delighted to collaborate with Galway City Council on this important on-the-go recycling initiative.”
“We are committed to providing the public with convenient and visible recycling options, and the bin surrounds pilot scheme is successfully delivering on that promise.”
“We are encouraging the public to utilise bin surrounds and assist with the recycling of plastic bottles and cans. Together, we can support the circular economy and make a real difference in our communities and environment.”
