RECOUP ‘scores’ with football-themed world record attempt at Exeter University

As part of its latest initiative to increase plastics recycling, RECOUP recently challenged students at Exeter University to take part in a Guinness World Record attempt involving plastic bottles.

Participants were asked to achieve as many ‘keepie-uppies’ with an empty two-litre plastic bottle as they could in one minute, with the winner achieving nine against Guinness’ target of 60.

The record attempt was part of a two-day visit carried out by RECOUP, which was designed to promote good practice and provide information to encourage positive consumer behaviour relating to plastics recycling ‘on-the-go’.

Students were given the opportunity to both take part in the record attempt, a well as register their interest in interest and commitment to plastics recycling. At the Student Guild, they were able to find out about all aspects of plastics recycling, career opportunities within recycling and resource management.

“We were delighted to have the opportunity to be able to talk directly to University students, staff and visitors and invite them to become plastics recycling champions,” explained Anne Hitch, RECOUP Communications Manager.

“As a society, we eat and drink more than ever ‘on-the-go’ and need to be aware of the opportunities that there are whilst out-and-about to recycle and the benefits that these bring to the world we live in. The world record attempt enables us to inspire and deliver the recycling message in a fun way.”

The RECOUP team said the initiative at Exeter allowed them to engage directly with students, staff and visitors.

Luciana Edwards, from Exeter Students’ Guild, commented: "Student engagement is key to improving recycling practices within the Guild. Not only does it ensure that more waste is recycled, but also makes students aware of wider issues and opportunities surrounding the sustainability of waste. We hope this means Exeter's students will go on to make positive change both in their personal and professional lives after they leave the university"