Lisbon's Nightlife to Go Green: New Cup Reuse System Launches!

Innovative Cup Reuse System in Lisbon's Nightlife

The Lisbon City Council (CML) has partnered with the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Portugal (AHRESP) and TOMRA to introduce a Cup Reuse System in the city's nightlife areas. This initiative aims to install 17 reverse vending machines in popular spots such as Bairro Alto, Bica, and Cais do Sodré, promoting the reuse of cups and contributing to the circular economy by reducing the reliance on disposable cups.

Objectives and Benefits

This project aims to tackle the significant issue of littering from disposable cups, which not only deteriorates the cleanliness of the streets but also incurs additional cleaning costs. The Mayor of Lisbon, Carlos Moedas, emphasized the potential of this measure to enhance sustainability policies in the city, aligning with goals from the Paris Climate Agreement and the European Green Deal.

User-Friendly Reuse Stations

Users will be able to return their reusable cups at designated machines to receive their deposit back. These cups will be sanitized and returned to local vendors, reinforcing the concept of a circular economy. According to Ângelo Pereira, the Urban Hygiene Councilor, this system reflects Lisbon's commitment to being a smart city that prioritizes both innovation and sustainability.

Diogo Moura, the Councilor for Economy and Innovation, noted that this pilot project not only streamlines commercial operations but also reduces waste and promotes a cleaner environment. The initiative encourages shared responsibility between businesses and consumers to foster a more sustainable public space.

Photo credit: CML / Daniela Conceicao