Major UK retailer Decathlon is launching a new initiative this summer, offering customers cash refunds for used tents in a bid to tackle the widespread issue of festival-goers abandoning their camping gear.
New Tent Pledge Programme
The major retailer has updated its "Tent Pledge" programme, allowing individuals to return their own-brand Quechua tents after an event. Depending on the condition of the tent, customers can claim up to 50 per cent of the original purchase price in cash. Alternatively, a gift card equivalent to 100 per cent of the tent's value is available.
This offer is valid until 6 September, with customers required to be a Decathlon member at the point of return.
Environmental Impact of Festival Waste
The move comes as UK festivals reportedly generate approximately 25,800 tonnes of waste annually. A survey commissioned by Decathlon revealed that more than half of festival attendees (52 per cent) view their tents as disposable items, leading to an estimated 250,000 tents being left behind in fields after events.
Edith Bowman is backing a campaign by Decathlon who are offering to buy back used tents to help prevent them being abandoned at music festivals this summer.
The firm said it hoped the pledge would "shift consumer behaviour at scale" and reduce the volume of tents ending up in landfill.
Second Life Programme
Tents returned in good condition will be assessed, cleaned and re-sold through Decathlon’s Second Life programme.
Chris Allen, sustainability leader at Decathlon UK, said: "What started as a small-scale initiative has become an important part of how we approach camping and festivals more broadly – encouraging customers to return used equipment, keep valuable materials in circulation, and give more products a second chapter through our Second Life programme.
"This year, we’re helping customers’ pockets as well as our planet. With our new one-hour bank transfer service, we’re providing the flexibility and value needed to turn unused gear into new adventures."
Broadcaster Support
Broadcaster Edith Bowman, who is supporting the campaign, said: "From festival fields to family camping trips, great gear should be used and enjoyed again and again.
"Decathlon’s Tent Pledge makes it easy for people to pass tents on, give them a second life, and help keep the spirit of adventure going long after the weekend ends."
Upcoming Festivals
Despite Glastonbury Festival having a fallow year, there are plenty of festivals on this year including Download Festival, Isle of Wight Festival, TRNSMT Festival and Camp Bestival.
