Young Activist Launches Cup Challenge to Promote Sustainability

Thirteen-year-old Abby Van Helvoirt from Brentwood Bay is making strides in environmental activism with her innovative reusable coffee cup contest. This initiative, now in its second year, encourages local coffee drinkers to adopt more sustainable habits while enjoying their beverages. The contest runs until the end of December 2023, prompting participants to bring their own mugs to both Politano Cafe and Brentwood Bay Village Empourium. Each participant will receive a punch card, and upon completion, they will be entered into a raffle for local gift cards.

In collaboration with Brentwood Bay Village Empourium, Van Helvoirt has also established an information table designed to educate customers about proper recycling practices for single-use cups. Her efforts are part of a broader mission to reduce waste and promote sustainability within her community. Earlier this year, she received the 2025 National Youth Climate Activism Award, along with a $1,000 prize from the Institute for Sustainability Education and Action. Her award-winning submission included the reusable cup contest alongside other community-focused sustainability projects.

The catalyst for her initiative stemmed from observing improper waste disposal. Van Helvoirt shared her concern with Peninsula News Review, stating that witnessing waste being thrown in the wrong places motivated her to take action. Her passion for environmental responsibility extends beyond coffee shops; she has initiated similar efforts at her school. Noticing that students often discarded plastic lunch containers, she introduced a blue recycling bin to encourage proper disposal practices.

To further her sustainability mission, Van Helvoirt has earmarked part of her prize money to purchase reusable produce bags. She plans to be at Thrifty Foods in Saanichton on November 30, 2023, where she will provide information on her new initiative, reinforcing her commitment to reducing plastic waste.

Looking ahead, Van Helvoirt has ambitious plans for her future. She aspires to secure a position on the city council, aiming to implement more significant changes within her community. “Just a little bit makes a big difference,” she remarked, emphasizing the importance of proper recycling practices at home. As she continues her advocacy, her grassroots efforts highlight the impact that one dedicated individual can have on fostering environmental consciousness among peers.