Communities across Cork to benefit from reusable party pack initiative

Community groups across the county are set to receive reusable party packs as part of an initiative designed to help reduce single-use plastics and support more sustainable celebrations.

As part of its ‘Borrow, Use, Return’ scheme, Cork County Council has begun distributing the packs to groups including rugby, soccer and GAA clubs.

The scheme is part of a wider initiative launched by local authorities across the southern region to promote simple, practical circular living within communities.

Each pack contains reusable cups, plates, cutlery, jugs and bowls, and includes colourful bunting created by Community Reuse Network Ireland (CRNI) using upcycled textiles.

All items are washable, durable and designed for repeated use within the community.

Sustainable communities

County Mayor Mary Linehan Foley said the project would help communities become more circular and sustainable.

“This initiative directly supports sustainable development goals, and it promotes reuse and reducing waste in the community,” she said.

When a celebration or event is planned, residents can borrow the pack from the participating group, and afterward, the items must be cleaned, dried and returned, ready for the next occasion. 

The scheme supports climate action by giving people practical tools to embrace reuse, reduce waste and live more sustainably. In addition to providing reusable supplies, the initiative encourages greener party planning with practical tips.

Party hosts are invited to send digital invitations instead of paper ones, swap traditional party bag gifts for creative activities and decorate using reusable items. 

Wrapping gifts in fabric and sharing leftover treats in reusable take-home containers are simple ways to reduce waste and make celebrations more sustainable. ‘Borrow, Use, Return’ is a project led by the environmental awareness offices from the Southern Waste Region, with funding support from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).