About this workshop

This workshop will focus on the Scottish Government’s public consultation on introducing a charge on single-use cups, which are one of the most common items found on UK beaches. Our Beachwatch volunteers have found cups on over half of beaches surveyed! After the success of the plastic bag charge, which led to an 80% drop in bags washing up on beaches, we know that charges like this can really work.

Public consultations are your chance to share your thoughts directly with the government on issues that matter to you. Responding to consultations is a great way to have your voice heard and influence real change. Whether you're new to public consultations or you've taken part before, this workshop is for you!

Led by Catherine Gemmell, Policy and Advocacy Manager at the Marine Conservation Society, you'll get expert tips on how to write responses that can make a difference. Catherine has over ten years of experience working on marine litter and the circular economy and will be sharing her top advice. The event includes a presentation, practical writing tips, and plenty of time for questions.

Who is this talk for?

All Marine Conservation Society Sea Champions & Members are are welcome!

To become a Sea Champion volunteer, you can register on our website by clicking on the person icon in the top right-hand corner.

Or you can visit our website to join our community of marine lovers and become a member today.

Tickets are free, but spaces are limited, so make sure to sign up and secure your spot!

While the cup charge consultation is only open to people living in Scotland, the tips you'll learn in this workshop will help with other consultations in Scotland, England, and Wales.

Accessibility information

We want to make sure everyone can participate, so we’ll have closed captions during the call and will check that everyone can see and hear clearly before we start. If you're more comfortable with your camera off, that's totally fine!

We’ll also be recording the event so you can revisit it later. By signing up, you’re agreeing to be part of the recording, which will be shared on the Marine Conservation Society website.

If you need any adjustments to enjoy the event, please email us at seachampions@mcsuk.org.

Note: If you're under 16, please attend with an adult.

Organised by the Marine Conservation Society

The Marine Conservation Society campaigns for clean seas and beaches, sustainable fisheries, and protection of marine life. Through education, community involvement and collaboration, we raise awareness of the many threats that face our seas and promote individual, industry and government action to protect the marine environment.

Advocacy Workshop: Scotland’s single-use cup charge consultation