An initiative introduced by NHS Western Isles has resulted in the number of single-use cups being thrown away reduced by 24,000, and around £4,5000 saved.

In June 2025, the dining rooms and vending machines within Western Isles Hospital in Stornoway and Ospadal Uibhist agus Bharraigh in Benbecula implemented a 25p surcharge on single-use drink cups. 

Between the months of July and December, throwaway cup-usage has dropped by 94%. This means that in a six-month period, around 24,000 fewer single-use cups have been thrown in the bin, which in turn has saved the NHS £4,500. 

To support the transition from single-use cups, NHS Western Isles staff were given reusable takeaway cups as part of the organisation’s Rest, Rehydrate and Refuel campaign.

One staff member said: “It’s great to see teams engage so positively with this project, it was an easy swap and thanks to the organisation for the reusable cups.” 

Another added: “We even take our reusable cups with us when attending meetings out with the office.”

George Maciver, NHS Western Isles Catering Manager, said: “Staff and visitors embraced the project from the start. We’ve seen a massive change where customers rarely request a single-use cup anymore and are happy to use reusable cups. The incredible 94 per cent reduction in the single-use cups speaks for itself. I would like to thank our catering staff for their work in implementing the scheme and all our customers for their continued support.”