#OneLess has worked with pioneering organisations that are leading the way in eliminating single-use plastic and tackling ocean pollution at source.

Over 90 organisations came together to form the #OneLess pioneer network and take action to eliminate single-use plastic water bottles, switching to ‘refill and reuse’ options for the sake of the ocean.

Members included corporates, councils and local authorities, academic institutions and schools, emerging innovators, landmark London events and venues, small and medium-sized enterprises, community groups, and grass-roots campaigns – along with many others.

These businesses demonstrated that it is possible to continue to thrive while eliminating plastic bottles and staying true to Corporate Social Responsibility objectives. Many #OneLess pioneers used eliminating bottled water as a steppingstone to tackling other single-use plastics within their organisations.

Our latest research has revealed achievable and exciting opportunities that will enable London to continue along the road to becoming a more ocean-friendly city.

Here’s how businesses can further the movement and play their part:

Support others in making necessary changes by sharing their journeys and best practices
Hold accountable those businesses that are not willing to change.
Join together to demand more support from government to support and incentivise change.
Coordinate pressure on industry to alter their business models and respond to the potential danger of greenwashing or stalling tactics.
Reach out to #OneLess pioneers and collaborate for change.

The case studies

Find out how London is moving away from single-use plastic water bottles, and what actions your organisation can take. These case studies showcase the efforts taken by diverse and innovative #OneLess pioneer network members, all seeking to reduce their plastic use, for the sake of the ocean.

Frank Water
Natural History Museum
#OneLess Cambridge
Canary Wharf Group
Tideway
Lord's Cricket Ground
LSE
Eden Caterers
Sustain
Sotheby's
MIW Water Cooler Experts
DP World: London Gateway
Lewisham Council
Refill London
Foreign and Commonwealth Office

Changing the way we drink water

The #OneLess pioneers are spearheading London’s transition to a ‘refill society’ and rethinking the way that we hydrate the city.

Making changes in the workplace, and at venues, events, shops, restaurants and London attractions

Making changes in public spaces such as streets, parks, and other places where people gather

Changing behaviour, social norms, mindsets and perceptions

Designing new solutions and business models that keep our city hydrated without single-use plastic

Redesigning London’s drinking water infrastructure to support refilling

Informing and influencing others to think and act differently

Testimonials

“

It seems like a lonely battle sometimes, bringing a concept to market; this collection of people showed me that lots of people across the spectrum of public and private sectors are applying themselves to solving the problem of single use plastics. It was very motivating. Good job #OneLess.

Anthony NewmanApe2o
“

It was my first opportunity to meet the wider #OneLess community. Therefore it was extremely useful to see the bridges that have already been built and realise the potential to connect much more than before.

Dr. Arturo CastilloImperial College London
“

Meeting other like minded people and the discussion that follows has been inspirational and hugely encouraging to realise that this objective might really be possible.

Hugh WalkerEden Caterers
“

Joining the #OneLess Network was an obvious choice for King’s College London, as it mirrors our own vision to make the world a better place through our teaching and research. It’s exciting to work with #OneLess to develop concepts and help solve part of this systemic single-use plastic problem. Our challenge is to make it as easy as possible for our staff, students and visitors to find water refill points within our campuses, and to address negative perceptions around tap water such as taste, health and hygiene.

Oliva PrestonKing's College London