We all know by now that disposable coffee cups have a detrimental impact on the environment. But it’s easy to forget when we’re out and about craving a caffeinated cuppa– how much damage can one cup do?

• Waste generation: Australians throw out an estimated 2.7 million single-use coffee cups every day, resulting in approximately 1 billion coffee cups discarded each year - 90% of which aren't recycled.
  
  
• Water usage: The production of paper for the global demand of single use coffee cups uses 100 billion litres of water.
  
  
• Deforestation: The production of single-use coffee cups requires the extraction of raw materials, such as paper and wood fibre, leading to resource depletion and deforestation. Paper cup manufacturing uses more than 1 million tonnes of paper each year, which requires 32 million trees.
  
  
• Energy consumption: The manufacturing and transportation of single-use coffee cups consume substantial amounts of energy. The entire lifecycle of these cups, including production and disposal, contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and energy demand. Each cup has an environmental footprint of up to 60.9 grammes of CO2.

• Plastic pollution: Single-use coffee cups often have a plastic lining, which makes them difficult to recycle. The plastic component contributes to plastic pollution and poses a threat to wildlife and ecosystems. In Australia, it is estimated that around 90% of seabirds have ingested plastic, including fragments from disposable cups.
  
  
• Recycling challenges: Standard disposable coffee cups cannot be recycled through regular paper recycling processes due to the plastic lining. Even cups labelled as "compostable" often face challenges with effective composting facilities. This results in a significant burden on waste management services and increases landfill waste.

• Waste reduction: it significantly reduces plastic waste in the environment. By opting for a reusable cup, you can help combat the estimated 12 billion metric tons of plastic waste that could be in landfills or the environment by 2050 if current trends continue.
  
  
• Flavour: Food and beverages tend to taste better when consumed from reusable containers, particularly those made of ceramic and glass - don’t ruin your barista brewed bevy with plastic! Ceramic can also keep your drink hot for longer periods, providing a more enjoyable drinking experience.
  
  
• Health benefits: Single-use coffee cups are often lined with plastic, which can release microplastics and potentially harmful chemicals when exposed to hot liquids. By using a reusable cup, you can minimize your exposure to these chemicals and enjoy a healthier and safer drinking experience.
  
  
• Stylish and customizable: Reusable coffee cups like our Travel Cups come in various designs, colors, and sizes, allowing you to express your personal style. Find one unique and meaningful to you!

• Save the environment: By using a reusable cup every day for a year, you could prevent hundreds of disposable cups from ending up in landfills. One study conducted in 2018 found that over the course of a year, the use of one reusable cup could save up to 500 kg of CO2 emissions and 120 litres of water. The study also found that the production of a single-use cup resulted in 20 times more greenhouse gas emissions compared to the production of a reusable cup.
  
  
• Save on your order: Moreover, you pay for your disposable cups! Cafes and restaurants generally account for the cost of disposable cups in their pricing. Many have begun offering discounts for customers who bring in their own coffee cup! For example, if an Australian purchases a $40 reusable coffee cup and uses it every day for a year, they can save up to $210 by not buying beverages in single-use cups. This can add up to significant cost savings over time.

Making the switch to reusable cups may require some adjustments, but with a few practical tips, it becomes a seamless part of your routine.

• Don’t forget: To ensure you don't forget your cup, consider keeping it in a visible spot, such as near your keys or in your bag.
  
  
• Establishing a habit: it might take time, so start by using your reusable cup for one specific activity, like your morning coffee at home! Gradually expand its use to other occasions.
  
  
• Create accountability: Sharing your enthusiasm for reusable cups with friends and colleagues can help spread the word and inspire others to make the switch.
  
  
• Be heard: Consider asking your favourite local cafe to begin a mug library. These programs (like our Borrow Cups System) provide reusable cups for community members to borrow and return, further reducing the need for single-use cups. take away instead of single use. You make a huge difference by making an individual swap to reusable, just imagine the impact you could have by getting your community on board!

By embracing reusable cups and making them a part of our daily lives, we can significantly contribute to reducing plastic waste and creating a healthier environment. Together, let's make Plastic Free July the start of a long-lasting commitment to a more sustainable lifestyle.

Travel Bowls:

Our Travel Bowls are perfect for going package free with tasty takeaway or as an oh-so aesthetic lunchbox.

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Apparel:

Rep the eco life with these single use statements.

Sustainability Inspiring Style 

 

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All our wares are the result of a love of the planet and art. Browse our collection of Tableware, Teapots, Mugs, Vases and more, all in our beloved glazes.

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