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Why Reusables Are The Most Sustainable Solution

by Ella Smith on May 16, 2023



We use 1 billion disposable cups in Australia and globally 78 million metric tonnes of plastic packaging (including takeaway containers) annually. That's a staggering amount of unnecessary, planet polluting waste! Thankfully, single-use plastics are increasingly being phased out of use across Australia by government policies and cultural shifts, but what are the alternatives? There are a few, and in this blog, we’ll break down the pros and cons of each so you can make informed, mother-nature minded and science-backed decisions about your sustainable swaps.

 

Recyclable

Cardboard and paper cups may seem like an ideal option as they are derived from a renewable resource that many assume may be compostable/decomposable. Unfortunately, this isn’t the case. These kinds of containers are resource and emissions-intensive and an unnecessary source of waste that perpetuates single-use culture!

 

pros and cons of recyclable coffee cups

 


Compostable Single-Use Plastics

Compostable single-use plastic containers are a popular alternative to regular plastic takeaway containers. They are made of plant-based materials, which can be broken down and degraded. This swap means the containers can be safely returned to the biosphere instead of ending up in the environment, thus reducing plastic pollution

 

pros and cons of compostable coffee cups

 

Reusables

Reusables (like these!) come in a vast variety of shapes, sizes, colours and materials and, while not all are created equal (we love our handmade ceramics, what can we say!), they are a step in the right direction for a brighter, greener future for our planet.

 

Pros and cons of reusable coffee cups


 

While coffee cups and food containers made from compostable plastics or cardboard are better for the environment than the common PET plastic or styrofoam options, they still have drawbacks. They can leech toxins, still over-burden waste management systems and require virgin resources/energy inputs.

Ultimately, the most people and planet-friendly choice is to reduce single-use and switch to a more circular economy with consciously-made reusables.

We’re biassed, but we love our Travel Cups and Travel Bowls as a safe to use and sustainably made alternative to compostables and cardboard. Not to mention, they come in a range of glazes that we think you’ll agree, make them way cooler!

Check them out and join us on our mission to protect our beautiful planet and its inhabitants, one Cup, one Bowl, one step at a time.