John Lawrie Group has increasingly become focused on the future of the circular economy. So, when we were offered the chance to get involved with The Swan Trust and partner with the #LitterCUBES project we jumped at the chance.

Fronted by artist, Julia Barton, and assisted by Shetland’s Youth Ambassadors, the project launched its Shetland leg at the beginning of September. The aim of #LitterCUBES is to illustrate the impact that our waste, especially our plastic litter, has on our oceans and educate young people on how we can support a better future.

John Lawrie Group Environmental Director Ray Grant said: “Our focus on decommissioning and indeed on the circular economy has been a growth area for the business. It’s vital that businesses and individuals confront wasteful habits and adopt a positive attitude to reuse, repurposing and recycling. The #LitterCUBES project was a perfect opportunity to connect with the thriving environmental culture of the communities in Shetland and the surrounding islands. The Swan Trust has been invaluable in helping to unite John Lawrie Group with the young people of Shetland whose continuing involvement in projects such as this demonstrates their irrepressible appetite for driving a cleaner future.”

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Alongside Julia’s unique cubic artworks, there were a number of workshops delivered in partnership with The Swan Trust and Shetland’s Youth Ambassadors on marine litter sources and how individuals can reduce their plastic waste contribution and tackle the wider issues. A total of four #LitterCUBES were created in Shetland, each from a different type of plastic litter commonly found in the waters around the isles. John Lawrie Group sponsored the creation of two of these cubes which will go on display at the Edinburgh Science Festival in April 2020, along with #LitterCUBES made in other parts of Scotland as part of the wider project.

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