The Natural History Museum (NHM) is to become the first British outlet to sell Life Water’s new zero-plastic canned spring water in its cafés.
The new packaging – made from 70% recycled aluminium – will be available on 1 May, with the iconic museum offering it to visitors shortly after. The partnership follows the NHM’s announcement of its intention to stop selling water in disposable plastic bottles at its Annual Science Lecture late last year.
Our marine biologists know only too well the destruction plastics can cause
This confirmation of the NHM’s commitment comes amid significant developments within government, as new policies are confirmed by environment secretary Michael Gove to tackle the deluge of single-use plastic waste impacting our countryside and oceans, labelled as ‘one of the great environmental scourges of our time’ by the Prime Minister.
Ian Owen, director of science at the NHM says: “Our marine biologists know only too well the destruction plastics can cause and the critical need to halt the tide of plastic entering our oceans and endangering fragile marine ecosystems. As a world-leading research institution and visitor attraction, we need to lead by example, and this marks an important milestone in our efforts to build a more sustainable future.
“We are delighted to be pioneering the first zero-plastic water cans from Life Water, which is just one of the actions we are taking at the museum to be more sustainable. We want to encourage visitors to join the refill revolution by bringing their own reusable bottles to top up at our water fountains, and recycle more on site. All small steps in our ongoing commitment to reduce plastic waste and empower everyone we interact with to make better decisions to sustain and improve life on Earth.”
As a world-leading research institution and visitor attraction, we need to lead by example, and this marks an important milestone
The move has been met by praise from Greenpeace UK, which says other venues and attractions are ‘set to switch’ as the demand for plastic-free drinks grows. Louise Edge, senior oceans campaigner, says: “Since the NHM is such an iconic attraction, its strong commitment to reduce single-use plastic will have far-reaching influence. Having already removed straws for those who don’t need them, the NHM is showing the way forward by phasing out throwaway plastic bottles, selling reusable drinks containers, and improving access to water fountains.”
Every Life Water can sold will contribute towards community clean water projects through the brand’s charity partner Drop 4 Drop; to enquire about stocking the product contact [email protected] or visit www.life-water.co.uk.
