The average adult throws away 150 single-use coffee cups every year. Less than 1% of takeaway coffee cups are recycled because it's tricky to separate the mixture of plastic, paper and leftover coffee dregs.
Did you know that if every adult in Essex stopped using disposable cups, we'd save 1.48 million cups going to waste each year (and that's if we only bought one coffee each!)
Below we have compiled some easy changes you can make to reduce the number of single-use coffee cups you throw away.
There are many reusable coffee cups to choose from. Whether you are looking for something to keep your drink hotter for longer or something compact for your daily commute there is something for everyone. A reusable coffee cup could reduce your greenhouse gas emissions by up to 92% compared to single-use coffee cups!
Many coffee shops will be happy to use your reusable cup, and you may even get a discount or loyalty points for doing so.
If you’re worried that you will struggle to remember your reusable coffee cup, then try setting a daily reminder. It may also help to make sure you have a reusable cup in places where you spend most of your time, from your work place to even the car.
We often pop out for a coffee or hot drink to take a break. Why not savour the moment and give yourself a proper break by enjoying your hot drink in-store, where a mug or cup is often available giving you that feel-good feeling.
We’ve all had one of those days where nothing seems to go to plan. There may be occasions where you forget your reusable coffee cup and don't have time to enjoy a drink in-store. Did you know that some High Street Coffee chains offer a coffee cup recycling service? Find your nearest paper cup recycling location at Recycle Now.
Ideas to help reduce your plastic
Tips to improve your recycling
What's the difference between biodegradable, compostable and eco?