B.C. Place Launches Reusable Cup Program Ahead of FIFA World Cup

UPDATE: B.C. Place is making urgent strides in waste reduction as it launches a new reusable cup program ahead of its role in hosting the FIFA World Cup next year. Last weekend, the venue successfully implemented the initiative during a Vancouver Whitecaps game attended by 54,000 fans, marking a significant milestone in the fight against environmental waste.

Cody Irwin, founder and CEO of ShareWares, expressed excitement over the event’s success, stating, “We’re proving that this is totally possible.” The program aims to significantly reduce the 47,500 kilograms of waste generated when the stadium is at full capacity, with smaller events producing around 5,300 kilograms of refuse.

Jenna Visram, assistant general manager at B.C. Place, emphasized the importance of waste management as the stadium prepares to welcome guests from around the globe. “We’re going to have guests here from all over the world who have different levels of understanding of waste management and recycling and sorting,” she noted, highlighting the stadium’s commitment to sustainability.

Since 2020, B.C. Place has transitioned to using wooden cutlery and compostable food containers, with the latest innovation being the ShareWares reusable cup system. Visram revealed that the venue aims to divert 90% of its waste from landfills by the end of 2026, which would help classify it as a zero-waste facility.

The push for sustainability is echoed by other hospitality providers in the region. During the recent Zero Waste conference in Vancouver, Stephanie Couture, a caterer at the Vancouver Convention Centre, shared that aligning food supply with demand has been instrumental in avoiding food waste. The convention center does not sell plastic water bottles and uses cloth napkins, promoting a circular economy.

Julia Canton, sustainability manager at Huntingdon Manor Hotel and Pendray Inn and Tea House in Victoria, discussed how her properties have benefited from sustainable practices. After investing a few thousand dollars in a food waste audit and operational changes, they are now saving $64,000 annually—translating to a 26% reduction in food costs. “It’s definitely worth it,” Canton stated, emphasizing the long-term benefits of sustainability for both the environment and businesses.

As B.C. Place leads the charge in reducing waste, other businesses are encouraged to follow suit. The hospitality sector, which often grapples with tight profit margins, can still adopt sustainable practices without burdening customers. “Usually people, once they understand where the cost goes, they’re more likely to spend a little bit more and help the business get there,” Canton explained.

With the FIFA World Cup on the horizon, B.C. Place is setting a powerful example for waste management in the hospitality industry. This initiative not only serves to inspire local businesses but also highlights the growing demand for sustainable practices among consumers.

As the stadium prepares for its upcoming events, including the highly anticipated World Cup matches, the focus on waste reduction will undoubtedly remain at the forefront. B.C. Place is not just aiming for operational efficiency; they are striving to foster a culture of sustainability that resonates with fans and visitors alike.

Stay tuned for further developments as B.C. Place pushes ahead with its environmental initiatives, proving that significant change is not only possible but essential.