The Tall Ships Races Tallinn 2024, the world's largest international sailing training regatta, will take place from 11 to 14 July at the Old City Harbour cruise area, Seaplane Harbour and Noblessner Marina. The organisers of this grand maritime celebration have set out to make it as environmentally friendly as possible. For example, throughout the event only reusable dishes will be used in the trading and dining areas of the harbours.
“Reducing impact on the environment has already become a common way of thinking and acting when planning cultural events,” says Marje Tõemäe, the project manager of Tall Ships Races Tallinn 2024. “With large events we can set ambitious goals and test innovative solutions.”
Ringo, the reusable package collaborator for the maritime celebration, ensures that all food and drink containers are recycled. When purchasing food or beverages in the harbour areas, the buyer pays an additional one euro per container. This euro is refunded once the container is returned to a Ringo collection point, which is a specific tent located in each harbour. Another option is to return the container by scanning the QR code on the package with a smartphone. The deposit is then credited to the returner's bank account.
Visitors are welcome to bring their own reusable water bottles, cups and food containers. Each harbour has free tap water stations where guests can fill their bottles with drinking water. All catering companies at the event will provide at least one vegan option on their menus. Sorting and collecting waste separately is critical for an environmentally conscious event.
“We also closely monitor the environmental impact of our festival marketing,” adds Tõemäe. “We print as few advertising materials on paper as possible and use only organic and/or recycled materials for everything from sail flag bases to the crew’s clothing. For merchandise, we use branded products that are produced on-site, to avoid ordering too many and just having them sit in a warehouse.”
The most comfortable and environmentally friendly ways to get to the event is by bicycle, walking or taking public transportation. Each harbour has bicycle parking for those who arrive by bike. During the event, a Sea Taxi service will also be available between the harbours.
Please see the Tall Ships Races Tallinn 2024 programme, which is both exceptional and environmentally friendly. Attend an event that celebrates maritime heritage while also protecting nature and encouraging sustainability!