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 an ideal material for our planet.

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 cups in circulation.

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

That’s an easy one! 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 your return in due.

How are the cups washed?

Other reuse systems distribute and collect cups in large trucks and drive them to a sanitation facility. We don’t think that’s very sustainable. For this reason, we work with cafes that have the ability to wash our cups on-site.

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.