20 million trees died to make that latte

Ray Williamson Posted on: 2014-01-21 12:00 AM FindMeCoffee Blogger

Champions of reducing waste in the Coffee Shop Industry
 
I recently read an article about the fact that we as consumers consume, and dispose of around 58,000,000,000 (billion) coffee cups per year.  And in order to make those 58,000,000,000 coffee cups we had to cut down and process 20,000,000 (million) trees.   While I’m a little surprised at the number and the environmental impact I personally realize that it is only one area that we are affecting the planet.  I could go on a rant about how we are a blight on the planet destroying it for our children…yatta yatta yatta. But I’m a positive person who realizes that no one sets out with the goal of  needing 58,000,000,000 coffee cups. It just happens when a convenient idea like the paper cup takes off.  I’ve chosen to share with you the fact that the people who can reduce the number of coffee cups that we throw away are making great strides to do so. 
 
 
Starbucks
 
Starbucks is probably one of the largest consumers of paper cups in the world, it’s not a fact just a reasonable guess. Starbucks has made the statement that they have set a goal that by 2015 all of their coffee will be served in either reusable or recycled cups.  They are actively supporting and promoting the reduction of cups, the use of reusable cups and the research performed at companies like the Beta Cup.
 
For more information please visit starbucks.com
 
 
Renewables
 
Renewables™ are a company helping to develop and distribute PLA lined Paper Cups Made from 100% renewable resources. Their Paper Cups are compostable under managed composting conditions. They are part of a comprehensive zero waste and low carbon footprint strategy that many smaller coffee shops are interested in.  The great thing about Renewables is that they are available in a variety of printed or custom designs.  Their cups have a stiffer feel than traditional paper cups, but without the added paper weight. Great for anywhere hot/cold beverages are served. Available in 2.5oz, 4oz, 6.5oz, 8oz, 9oz, 10oz, 12oz, 16oz, 20oz and 22oz sizes in Single Wall, Double Wall, and Ripple Wall designs.


For more information click here.
 
One Vessel
 
For those of you like me who have chosen to go the route of a traveller there are so many great options. OneVessel offers a great selection of insulated containers that can accommodate everything from your morning coffee to your afternoon on the road. They offer a great selection of beautiful and fun designs on sturdy well designed products.  I personally how they slim their product just below the lid to make a much more comfortable grip.

 
KeepCup

KeepCup is internationally acclaimed for its considered and sustainable design. It has become known for being lightweight, portable, and unbreakable. It's dishwasher and microwave safe, and fits in most car and bicycle holders. I have a Keep Cup and I love how it fits right under espresso machine’s nozzle.  There is a lot less mess and no repouring required. 

 
There are lots of other companies working towards reducing the amount of waste that is produced from Coffee Shop and Quick Serve Restaurants.  If you know any that you would like to share with us we will gladly write about them.