Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 February 2026
183. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the position regarding any assessment of the pilot project in Killarney related to the use of single use coffee cups; the lessons that can be learned from it; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13791/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFollowing the initiation of the Killarney Cup Project, the Department engaged the Munster Technological University (MTU) to conduct a study on the project which would examine how community-led reusable cup systems can operate most effectively. The study resulted in a Project Information Kit designed to support other towns and communities across Ireland seeking to replicate this initiative. This toolkit can be found at on the Local Authority Prevention Network website and has been shared with all Local Authorities as starting point for future similar initiatives: localprevention.ie/topics/rethinking-single-use/
In July, 2025, I met with representatives of the Killarney Coffee Cup Project to hear about their project and the opportunities and challenges they encountered in operating the scheme.
The Department continues to monitor the progress and outcomes of community-led initiatives, which support our wider efforts to promote sustainable consumption and reduce reliance on single-use products.
