Why is reuse the next big thing?

Recycling reduces a product’s end-of-life impact by keeping its material in circulation. While this is not a bad thing, the majority of a product’s environmental footprint occurs during production and use. That’s why it is better to minimize the number of cups produced in the fist place. Check out this report from Upstream to find out why reuse beats single-use every time!

Why are you using a plastic cup?

Whether we like it or not, every time we use a single-use paper cup, we are enjoying our beverage in plastic. That’s because most paper cups have a petroleum-based liner.

When we began the development of our reuse system, we briefly considered using other materials. However, we learned that the environmental break-even point for more durable materials (e.g. stainless steel) is as high as 800 uses. Sadly, no open reuse system achieves a return rate that will allow a cup to be in circulation that long.

In the end, we opted for recycled polypropylene cups made by the good people at Circular & Co. Because this material is heat and stain-resistant, it’s the perfect material for hot beverage cups. Because it requires no additives like BPA or melamine, it’s an ideal material for people. And because its environmental benefits accrue after just a couple uses, it’s the ideal material for the planet as well.

Have these cups been used anywhere else?

Circular & Co. cups are widely used across England and throughout northern Europe. Our technology partner, kleen hub, was founded by a German and two Italians in Denmark. So you could say our system has been around the block. ;)

How do you get the cups back if there is no deposit or app?

Customers check out cups free of charge by tapping their credit card at the point of sale. If the cups are returned to any participating location within a week, no fee will be charged. If a cup is not returned, a $5 charge will be assessed. This way, we encourage customers to keep our cups in circulation.

How can I tell when I have to return my cup?

Simply scan the QR code on the side of your cup and you will be taken to a website that let’s you know exactly when it is due. You can even set yourself an email reminder if desired!

How are the cups washed?

Businesses that have the ability to wash our cups on-site will save money by doing so. Those that don’t have a dishwasher can install one or use an outside washing service. Both SF and Alameda counties currently provide grants to support food service establishments with the cost of adding dishwashers to their stores.

Do you sell branded cups?

No. Because CupCycle wishes to maximize the environmental benefits of our reusable cup system, our cups are shared between participating restaurants. That way, we don’t end up with multiple reuse systems and customers can return cups at any participating location.