Free drinking water scheme launched in Causeway Coast and Glens

by Gráinne Connolly

Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council has launched a unique initiative which aims to encourage people to cut down on bottled water.

Through the ‘H20 on the go’ scheme, participating businesses make tap water freely available for visitors and residents who bring in refillable drinks bottles.

So far, six businesses have signed up to take part, along with Council’s Arts Centres in Limavady and Portstewart and Ballycastle Marina while free water will also be available at Downhill, Benone, West Strand and Whiterocks beach.

It’s hoped to extend the network even further and raise awareness about how switching to free tap water can make a huge difference to our environment.

Endorsing the scheme, the Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council Councillor Joan Baird OBE said:

“Single use plastic items are having a hugely negative effect on the world around us.

"‘H20 on the go’ has the potential to make a real difference and contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle for us all by reducing our use of throwaway water bottles. I would like to thank those who have signed up to take part so far and I look forward to seeing the scheme develop across the Borough.”

Declan Donnelly, Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council’s Environmental Resource Officer, added:

“‘H20 on the go’ complements our ongoing LiveSmart campaign which encourages us to look at all aspects of our daily life and make more sustainable choices.

"Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council is delighted to be leading the way in this regard and we are committed to making a positive difference to the fantastic environment where we live and work.

"Recent research by the Centre for Social Innovation shows that more people would drink tap water or carry reusable bottles if refills were more available. 

"This research also shows that Northern Ireland lags behind in terms of the number of people drinking tap water.  Most interesting it indicates that people may well view businesses involved in a scheme like this more favourably so there are exciting benefits for everyone involved.”

‘H20 on the go’ also aims to foster good habits from an early age, and subsidised children’s steel water bottles are now available from The Real Health Store in Coleraine.