Donegal's new party plan aims to put a lid on plastic waste
Reusable party kits for up to 25 people are now available to borrow from libraries across the county
Donegal County Council has launched its ‘Borrow, Use, Return’ party pack Initiative to help communities across Donegal celebrate in a more environmentally friendly way.
The initiative aims to reduce single-use plastics at community events and encourage everyday circular living.
The Council's Climate Action Unit, in partnership with the Library Service, is introducing reusable party kits to help reduce waste and promote more sustainable celebrations across the county.
Available to borrow through Central Library, Letterkenny and Buncrana Community Library, the kits will provide families, community groups and organisations with a practical alternative to single-use tableware.
Each party kit will contain durable, food-safe reusable plates, bowls, cups, cutlery sets, trays and jugs, suitable for events of up to 25 people.
Designed for repeated use, the kits will help reduce reliance on disposable items while supporting waste prevention, resource efficiency and climate action objectives.
Rosita Mahony, DCC Environmental Awareness Officer, explained: “This initiative encourages communities to embrace sustainable event practices while continuing to enjoy convenient and attractive catering options for birthdays, family gatherings, community events and celebrations.”
“By making reusable tableware easily accessible through the Library Service, Donegal County Council is supporting the transition to a circular economy and helping residents reduce their environmental impact, one celebration at a time.”
Bunting using upcycled textiles is also included. The bunting was created under the programme ‘Inishowen is Ours ’, a collaborative ECO project aimed at promoting environmental regeneration and social inclusion and delivered by Inishowen Development Partnership (IDP).
Denise McCool, Team Lead at IDP said: “This work links in well with the ECO Buncrana plan developed in consultation with the local community, schools, organisations and agencies in the area. The library service has been very supportive and engaged in this work from the start, so it’s great to see them leading on this initiative for the county.”
“Beautiful festive bunting was designed with upcycled materials by local women, repurposing and adding life to waste clothing. The ‘Sewing for Good’ workshops were delivered under our PEACEPLUS programme, which is aimed at community-based activities focused on climate action, biodiversity, and wellbeing, bringing people together to make a difference and inspire lasting contributions to a more peaceful and sustainable Inishowen.”
When a celebration or event is planned, library users can reserve and borrow a reusable party pack from any library in Donegal. After the event, the items are cleaned and returned, ready for the next occasion.
This cycle of borrowing, using and returning reduces reliance on single-use plastics, and gives people a practical, low-cost way to reduce waste while still enjoying special occasions.
Speaking about the initiative, Senior Executive Librarian Donna Cavanagh said: “Public libraries are much more than books; they provide access to energy awareness and green lifestyle resources as well as playing a significant role in promoting a circular economy. We are delighted to have partnered with Inishowen Development Partnership and the Council’s Environment Section on this project. The benefit of this collaboration will be celebrated in communities across the county.”
For more information on the party packs, please contact Buncrana Library on 07493 61941 or check the library website www.donegallibrary.ie. Party Packs can be borrowed from any library in the county.