Komunala Škofja Loka: cutting single-use waste with reusable cup rentals

An increasing number of event organisers are opting for more sustainable solutions that reduce single-use packaging waste. However, many face challenges due to a lack of adequate resources or access to the services needed to implement these solutions effectively. The waste management company “Komunala Škofja Loka”, based in Škofja Loka, Slovenia, is one such organisation that has taken a proactive approach to tackle the issue of single-use plastic pollution. By investing in a rental and washing service for reusable cups, they are significantly reducing waste at local events. But how did they come to this decision? How is the service managed? What insights have they gained from their experience so far?

Reason for investment

The main reason for investing in a reusable cup rental and washing system was the large amount of waste generated at public events. The goal was to reduce single-use plastic and provide event organisers with an immediate, sustainable solution. The municipalities where Komunala Škofja Loka operates are known for organising numerous events such as concerts, cultural gatherings and sport competitions. Following discussions with event organisers, they identified an opportunity to offer a comprehensive solution: purchasing reusable cups, renting them out, and managing their washing. This process involves the use of an industrial dishwasher, perfect for washing and drying reusable cups made of hard plastic, as they require thorough drying to avoid watermarks and prevent mold.

Start of operations

In January 2024, Komunala Škofja Loka purchased a set of reusable cups, funding 85% of the cost through regional sources. The cup rental service for events was then officially launched in March 2024, when they began renting cups for events. Accordingly, they updated the technical rules and guidelines for event organisers in the municipalities of Škofja Loka and Železniki, which include mandatory waste separation, waste disposal, and mandatory rental of reusable cups. Both municipalities have been part of the Zero Waste Cities network since 2021 and have been very actively working on waste prevention strategies.

Deposit for cup rental

The cup rental service requires a deposit of 2 euros, a system that Komunala Škofja Loka has recognised to be both simple and accessible. To further streamline the process, organisers can also rent tokens for the deposit, which help ensure cups are returned and prevent confusion or loss. Despite these measures, some cups have not been returned, and the organisation is actively working on improving the return rate. Another challenge they face is collaborating with event organisers outside their immediate service area, where the waste management company does not operate as they are not so familiar with local strategies and rules when it comes to prevention and separate waste collection. 

User acceptance and number of single use cups avoided

User feedback has been very positive. Organisers are excited about the service, as renting reusable cups is more affordable than purchasing disposable cups and, in addition, is more eco-friendly. To date, the service has been used by 25 event organisers, including public and private events.

The reusable cups they rent out have replaced thousands of disposable cups. Through the rental system, they have already avoided 23,000 single-use cups, marking a significant step toward reducing plastic waste.

Plans for the future

Komunala Škofja Loka has ambitious plans for expanding their rental service. Their goal is to make the service widely recognised and present at a majority of events and celebrations in the municipalities of Škofja Loka and Železniki, as well as in the broader region. They aim to further promote the concept of reuse and engage with as many event organisers as possible. Additionally, they hope to expand the offering to include reusable cutlery and plates, taking another step toward reducing dependence on single-use items.

Return on investment

Although the project is primarily funded by regional funds, which covered most of the costs, the main motivation for purchasing reusable cups was its positive ecological impact. As a result, the rental prices have been set at the lowest possible level to encourage as many organisers as possible to adopt reusable cups. The rental fee simply covers the washing cost, which is €0,07 (excluding VAT) per cup. In case of a lost cup, the organiser is charged €1,23 (excluding VAT).

Lessons learned 

The success of this project has been largely driven by the collaboration between Komunala Škofja Loka, the municipality of Škofja Loka, and event organisers. Providing a comprehensive service that combines both the rental and washing of reusable cups in one place has been crucial in attracting organisers. Ongoing communication and support from the company have also been essential to ensure the smooth operation of the service.

Through this initiative, Komunala Škofja Loka has made significant strides in the fight against single-use plastic pollution. Their success demonstrates that reuse can be seamlessly integrated into everyday practices when properly supported and promoted. This initiative, supported by the local organisation Ekologi Brez Meja, also inspires other Slovenian municipalities involved in the Elevating Reuse In Cities (ERIC) project, such as Kranj and Laško, to replicate similar systems.