Network Rail has announced that rail passengers have helped to save three million plastic bottles from landfill thanks to free water fountains at some of the biggest stations in Britain.
Since its launch in 2018, the water fountain initiative has proven popular with passengers. During last year's National Refill Day, Network Rail celebrated saving the equivalent of one million plastic bottles and set a target of reaching two million by the end of 2020.
This success coincides with the final major station, Leeds, installing its water fountain last month.
Free water fountains can now be found at all 20 of Network Rail's managed stations, including London Waterloo, Birmingham New Street and London King's Cross.
What did the officials say?
Steve Hynd, Campaigns Manager at City to Sea, said:
“It's fantastic to have the support of Network Rail, and through our partnership with them we are empowering passengers to avoid single-use plastic. We know that when people are on the go, this is the time they're most likely to buy a plastic bottle of water. Research shows 36% of people who regularly carry a reusable water bottle say they would buy a plastic bottle at a train station.[1] We are here to offer them an easy, cheap and good for the environment alternative. Now that's something to raise a glass to”.
David Biggs, Managing Director Property, Network Rail, said:
“Network Rail has a big role to play in tackling plastic pollution. We know that passengers share our passion for reducing single use plastics, so it's important that we make it as easy as possible for them to refill throughout their journey. It's great that we now have free water fountains in all of our managed stations, and even more so, that they're making a real difference for passengers.”
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps, said:
“Network Rail and City to Sea's campaign has been a massive success, ensuring passengers stay hydrated, save money and we all save the planet one water bottle at a time.
“People across the country start and finish their days on our railways and encouraging water refills both avoids waste and means that, as a nation, we won't be running on empty.”
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I’ve used the water fountains before and I still think it’s a brilliant idea. Including at major stations in London including at London Liverpool Street and Fenchurch Street.
But why aren’t they EVERYWHERE ?
All station owners/operators should be named and shamed into supporting this scheme.
It’s a pity this site only see the good story in this and not the dreadful apathy from all the other station operators.