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Newry, Mourne and Down District Council has partnered with the Street Dreams Project to raise awareness about the impact of single-use plastics within the district. This initiative, a collaboration between the Council’s Newry DEA Forum and Amplified Arts NI, is transforming ordinary utility boxes in Newry city centre into striking works of art.
One of these transformed utility boxes, located near the Five Ways roundabout on Armagh Road in Newry City, carries a strong environmental message: “Can’t Reuse, Refuse,” chosen by the Council’s Sustainability Department. The vibrant and visually arresting design was created by Anafish Art.
Councillor Pete Byrne, Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, remarked, “Many single-use items end up as litter on our streets. Simple actions like using a reusable drinks bottle or cup, avoiding over-packaged products when shopping, and bringing reusable shopping bags can significantly reduce the amount of litter, especially plastic waste, that harms our district.”
Councillor Byrne continued, “I always try to carry a reusable bag, coffee cup, or drinks bottle when I’m out and about. It’s a small step, but it helps lessen the impact of unnecessary plastics on the environment. If an item is designed for single use, like a plastic coffee cup, why not refuse it and choose a reusable option instead?”
This innovative arts project aims to remind residents and visitors alike to minimise plastic waste where possible when shopping and going about their daily lives. Since the introduction of the Carrier Bag Levy in 2013, plastic bag usage has dropped by 82.9%, according to data from the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs. This demonstrates the positive impact of small changes. With a bit more effort and by adopting the mindset of “Can’t Reuse? Refuse,” we can all contribute to further reducing the amount of plastic waste that pollutes our environment.
