A NETWORK of hi-tech public water taps in Loch Lomond has helped save the equivalent of five million plastic bottles.

Scottish Water recently installed its landmark 100th Top Up Tap since launching the initiative in 2018.

The aim was to put the distinctive blue Top Up Taps in key locations all over the country – with three in Loch Lomond and the surrounding area.

The Top Up Taps are in convenient locations across our towns and cities, including parks, promenades, busy shopping streets, railway stations, tourist spots – and even outside the Scottish Parliament.

Where to find Loch Lomond's Top Up Taps

  • Visit Scotland Centre on Balloch Road (Balloch)
  • Footpath opposite Balmaha Lodge on Main Street (Balmaha)
  • The Waterfront Pier (Helensburgh)

The initiative has inspired a 19 per cent increase in people carrying a refillable bottle. 

Kes Juskowiak, general manager of Customer Water Services, said: “It’s brilliant that so many locals and visitors alike are using our Top Up Taps in such numbers.

“But nothing would make us happier than seeing them used even more.

"There couldn’t be many better reasons for carrying a refillable water bottle and topping up regularly – it’s good for your health, good for your pocket and good for the planet.”

Scottish Water has even created a dedicated website featuring an interactive map where customers can find the Top Up Taps closest to them, or where to fill up their water bottles during day trips across the country.

For more information or to search for Top Up Taps across Scotland visit their website here.