The 2GoCup initiative, run jointly by Swansea Council’s Swansea Project Zero team and Swansea Business Improvement District (BID), allows customers to pay a small deposit for a durable, reusable cup. The cup can be returned to any participating business for a refund or swapped for a fresh one.
The scheme is designed to reduce the thousands of disposable coffee cups thrown away in the city centre each week, helping Swansea meet its sustainability targets.
Nine businesses have already signed up, including Socialdice / Pinatas, Little Man Coffee at Founders, The Storyteller, First Call Coffee, The Cwtch, The Anchor, Café Ark, Hello Asia and Kardomah, with another seven to be announced soon. Local employers Swansea.com and Peter Lynn and Partners have also purchased cups for staff.
Cllr Andrea Williams, Joint Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Service Transformation at Swansea Council, said:
“The 2GoCup scheme is an exciting and practical way to help us on our journey to becoming a net zero city by 2050. Every small change adds up, so by reducing single‑use waste, we’re protecting our environment, keeping the city cleaner, and supporting our local businesses. We’re proud to help fund this initiative and look forward to seeing more businesses join in.”
Andrew Douglas, Swansea BID Manager, said:
“Swansea is a city that looks to the future, and our businesses are proud to be leading the way on sustainability. The 2GoCup model makes it simple for customers to choose greener options without any added hassle, and the positive early response has been fantastic to see. We’re excited to build on this momentum in the months ahead, expanding the scheme and encouraging people to explore new coffee shops across the city — boosting trade for our BID businesses while supporting a more sustainable Swansea.”
Kieran Ivett, owner of Wind Street’s Socialdice and Pinatas, added:
“I’m extremely passionate about this scheme. It’s already delivered fantastic results in Ireland, and I’m confident it will not only inspire visitors to make more sustainable choices but also give businesses the chance to connect with new customers. The idea is straightforward, and I believe people coming into the city will embrace it; all while playing their part in protecting the environment.”
Launched in Ireland in 2018, 2GoCup has expanded across the UK and Ireland. The cups are made from durable, BPA‑free materials, designed for multiple uses, and are fully recyclable at the end of their life.
