Refill is an award-winning campaign from City to Sea to help us live with less plastic. It connects us with places to eat, drink and shop with less waste, encouraging reuse rather than single-use.
Refill stations
The Refill app is free to download. It taps into a global network of businesses and organisations which provide plastic-free options, aka Refill stations.
For those without a smart phone, we host a Swindon version of the app.
For those without a smart phone or computer, look out for the blue Refill stickers.
Businesses
Swindon’s Refill / zero waste champions are leading the way on reducing plastic use / pollution. There are complimentary benefits for them:
- 7 out of 10 people would view a business more favourably if it provided free drinking water.
- 44% of people spend between £2.50 and £5 whilst getting a free water refill.
- 66% of people said they would be more likely to make a purchase from a business whilst refilling.
- 65% would be more likely to return to make a future purchase.
- 64% would choose to make a purchase from a participating business over a competitor.
Local activities
Refill Swindon works in various ways to promote and grow the scheme locally:
- Promotion through our website, mailing lists, local and social media.
- Engagement and collaboration with local businesses, organisations, councils (borough and parishes) and communities.
- Promotion of the scheme at events.
- Presentations.
- Support for Refill / City to Sea initiatives and campaigns such as World Refill Day.
Resources
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Local Stations App
Includes a map with all stations, types of refills offered, links, contact info and search. -
Takeaway Packaging Guide
With so many packaging types on the market, navigating terms like compostable, biodegradable and eco-friendly can be a minefield. Which is the most sustainable? And does compostable really mean compostable? -
Solutions on Tap
A guide for event organisers on reusable cup schemes. - Water Fountains A 'how to' guide for organisations looking to install water fountains. Contact us with any queries and / or for installation support.
Campaigns
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Plastic Free Periods
Highlighting the hidden plastic in period products and suggesting reusable alternatives. Better for your body, better for the planet. Choose to reuse! -
Plastic Free Chewing Gum
A call to ban plastic-based chewing gum. Did you know most chewing gum contains plastic? Yes, that piece of gum in your mouth is actually made from the same plastics found in carrier bags, shampoo bottles, and even car tyres. And we brits chew a whopping 4 billion pieces of plastic gum. -
Summer of Refills
The campaign addressed concerns arising from the 2020 pandemic. It clarified that refilling is hygienic and safe, and that single-use plastics are not. -
Cut the Cutlery
A successful campaign to replace commonly used single-use plastics used in take-away food and drink.