Parkside Pools and Gym Embraces Reverse Vending to Boost Recycling in Cambridge 

Parkside Pools and Gym, a key community hub in the heart of Cambridge, has taken a significant step towards a greener future with the installation of a new reverse vending machine, joining a growing initiative to encourage recycling and reduce litter in leisure and fitness centres across the region. 

This move follows the success of a similar scheme in West Suffolk, where a six-month trial led to more than 12,000 bottles and cans being recycled through reverse vending machines. Inspired by that momentum, Cambridge City Council, in collaboration with GLL (Better), the operator of Parkside Pools and Gym, and recycling tech company Trovr, has brought the innovative solution to Cambridge for the first time. 

The machine, now available in the lobby area of Parkside Pools and Gym, allows users to return their empty plastic bottles and cans and earn reward points via the Trovr smartphone app. These points can be redeemed at local and national retailers, offering an incentive to recycle and support sustainable habits among gym-goers, swimmers, and the wider community. 

This project is part of Cambridge City Council’s wider commitment to tackle climate change, reduce waste, and engage residents in more sustainable behaviours. The council is actively working on several fronts - from improving public recycling infrastructure to supporting community-led green initiatives - and the Parkside reverse vending machine marks a practical, high-visibility step forward. 
The initiative has been supported by local ward councillors and environmental champions, and it reflects a strong political and community will to make recycling more accessible and effective across Cambridge. 

The goal is to increase the recycling rate of single-use drinks containers and reduce litter in public spaces - especially in high-footfall areas like leisure centres. With thousands of visitors each week, Parkside is ideally placed to make a major impact. 

The initiative also aligns with the UK Government’s plan to launch a Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) in 2027, aimed at reducing waste and increasing recycling of single-use containers across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. By introducing this scheme early, Cambridge is helping residents familiarise themselves with how the DRS will work - and contributing to environmental goals ahead of schedule.