SNP MSP Calls For Festival Water Refill Points - Thirst For Change On Plastic Waste

SNP MSP Gordon MacDonald has called for Edinburgh Festival venues to offer and promote free water refill points across the city – as part of an effort to cut down on plastic waste during the world-famous festivals.

The environmental impact of Edinburgh’s festivals has become a growing concern in recent years, despite efforts from all the festival organisers to limit the impact that they make in terms of pollution and litter. Gordon MacDonald, who represents Edinburgh Pentlands, has suggested the promotion and availability of free water refill points at all venues across Edinburgh as a potential solution to the problem of single use plastics.

Commenting, Gordon MacDonald MSP said, “Edinburgh’s Festivals bring with them a great array of music, dance, comedy, theatre and more – unrivalled anywhere else in the world – but we also have to be aware of the environmental impact that they have, too.

“Single use plastics are a prime example of something that we need to tackle to ensure our festivals don’t impact negatively on our environment.

“Free water refill points across the city is one solution that we can implement to make that a reality – and there is a real thirst for change on this issue.

“Our Festivals and festival organisers have been making important efforts to reduce the environmental impact of Edinburgh’s world-famous events, including through sustainability plans from festival organisers – but more can always be done.

“If we can get venues across the city offering people with places to refill their water bottles, we can start to make a real impact in reducing single-use plastics and making the festivals as environmentally-friendly as they can be.”