A recent national YouGov survey reveals that 76% of diners believe hospitality businesses should prioritise certified plastic removal practices, making plastic the top sustainability concern in the hospitality industry. In response to this, SKOOT is partnering with Plastic Bank to prevent and remove plastic bottles from our oceans.

This initiative builds on SKOOT's existing achievements, which include planting nearly 900,000 trees and eliminating over 4,500 tonnes of CO2. SKOOT's eco-contribution model has already gained industry and consumer support, with three-quarters of adults willing to visit a restaurant the same amount or more if a 50p eco-contribution was offered to counter the carbon footprint of their dining experience.

The innovation enables hospitality businesses to use SKOOT’s frictionless solution to stop ocean plastic, for every drink or meal served.  Additionally, individuals can purchase plastic bottle reduction credits through the SKOOT impact shop.

By joining forces with Plastic Bank, SKOOT takes significant action to safeguard marine life and tackle the pressing issue of plastics impacting carbon emissions. Plastic waste is collected from within 50 kilometres of ocean-bound areas, directly supporting the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the recently signed UN High Seas Treaty.

Commenting on the findings, Co-Founder and CMO, Mark Stringer, said “The recent YouGov study showed just how important it is for hospitality businesses to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability to their customers. Through our virtual impact dashboards, businesses can transparently showcase their sustainability journey, fostering stronger customer connections, driving positive engagement and empowering them to take more responsibility for their carbon footprint.”

Greg Gormley, Co-Founder and CEO of SKOOT emphasised the impact of plastic on the environment, stating: “Ocean life sustains us, providing over 50% of Earth's oxygen. Alarming scientific findings show that plastics prohibit the capacity of the ocean to act as a natural carbon sink, having a huge impact on both carbon absorption and climate balance.”

“SKOOT invites consumers, businesses, and communities worldwide to join in the pursuit of a plastic-free future. Plastic Free July is a great catalyst but we need to help provide solutions that enable all our small actions to have a huge positive impact. Our measures align with the critical UN Sustainable Development Goals. We have made it our mission to create a cleaner, greener and healthier planet.”