How you can reduce single-use plastic waste for Plastic Free July

Plastic Free July was launched in 2011 by the Plastic Free Foundation to work towards the shared vision of a plastic-free future.  

The theme for Plastic Free July 2023 is “small steps make a big difference.” To mark the occasion, we’re promoting water fountains that can be found throughout the city – a simple way everyone can help to reduce single-use plastic waste.  

Water fountains in Brighton & Hove

Last year, we installed drinking water stations at several locations across the city to reduce our reliance on single-use plastic water bottles while providing residents and visitors with easy access to free, healthy drinking water on the go. 

Water fountains and bottle filling points can be found at the following locations:  

• Hove Lawns 
• Hove Lagoon skate park 
• Churchill Square  
• the North Gate of the Royal Pavilion 

Bottle filling points are also installed in front of Hove Town Hall and outside Brighton Station.  

Each of the water outlets is sterilised daily but please do get in touch if you see they have been damaged or vandalised.  

Environmental impact of plastic 

Plastic production and burning plastic that cannot be recycled produces harmful greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change.  

If plastic production continues at current levels, it’s estimated that these emissions will jeopardize efforts to prevent global temperatures from rising more than 1.5°C. This means it’s crucial that we reduce plastic waste to tackle to the climate and biodiversity crisis. 

Working together   

Councillor Trevor Muten, Chair of the Transport and Sustainability Committee, said: “Unnecessary plastic waste has a serious impact on our local environment.  

“Single-use plastics affect our seas, parks, and open spaces by polluting habitats, endangering wildlife, and contributing to climate change.   

“We must work together as a city to minimise plastic waste. This includes council-led projects like our drinking water stations, as well as efforts from businesses, communities, and individuals.”  

The Living Coast UNESCO Biosphere 

The drinking water stations are co-branded with The Living Coast UNESCO Biosphere, which Brighton & Hove sits at the heart of.  

The Living Coast was designated a Biosphere Region by UNESCO in 2014. This recognises the region’s outstanding natural environments – the South Downs, the towns and the coast – and its capacity to foster cross-sectoral cooperation for excellence in sustainable development. 

The Living Coast is of 7 UNESCO Biospheres in the UK and one of more than 700 UNESCO Biospheres globally. Biospheres are learning sites for sustainable development, reconciling people and nature.