For 2025, Fringe World partnered with Bettercup to:
Overcome past logistical challenges to implement a seamless reuse system.
Introduce structured washing and collection to maintain efficiency.
Increase education for patrons and staff on reuse, ensuring higher return rates and waste diversion.
To ensure smooth implementation, Fringe World adopted a $1 non-refundable deposit model, designed to encourage returns while covering the operational costs of a reuse system.
Tumblers (425ml) - Used for beer and mixed drinks.
Tasters (285ml) - Replaced stemless wine glasses, offering versatility for both cocktails and wine.
Patrons returned their cups directly when purchasing another drink.
Cleaning teams retrieved misplaced cups.
Strategically placed around the venue for easy drop-off.
To ensure no cups ended up in general waste.
Fringe World achieved an overall return rate of 84.7%. This exceeds the 70 to 80% industry benchmark for similar scale reusable cup systems.
By replacing single-use plastic cups with a structured reuse system, Fringe World saved 372kg of single use waste from landfill, while maintaining a seamless patron experience.
With continued commitment, Fringe World is positioning itself as a leader in sustainability within Australia's festival circuit.
Their Australian-made custom reusable cups have been a smash hit so far this festival. I owe my heart to the Bettercup team, thank you for making the lives of those who focus so intently on cups, so much easier.” — Tim Slack, Fringe Operations Coordinator.
Fringe World is committed to reuse beyond 2025 and has already outlined plans to continue for 2026.
Long-term sustainability goals include eventual ownership of a branded reusable cup fleet, reducing costs and providing additional marketing and communication opportunities.
More staff training touchpoints will be introduced to ensure consistency across the entire festival.
372kg of waste eliminated by increasing the return rates of reusable cups across the festival..
84.7% return rate, proving high engagement.
Logistics and collection systems ran smoothly.
Fringe World’s move toward a self-owned cup fleet will reduce long-term costs.
Fringe World’s commitment to a circular economy through Bettercup’s reusable system demonstrates that large-scale events can operate sustainably — without compromising the festival experience. With further refinements in staff training, communication, and stock distribution, Fringe World is on track to becoming one of Australia’s most sustainable festivals.
