In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the environmental impact of single-use items, leading individuals and businesses to seek sustainable alternatives. The paper cup is used by many people each day, whether that be for coffee or soft drinks, and provides us with a convenient and safe way to enjoy refreshing drinks wherever we are and while being ‘on-the-go’. However in the UK, it is estimated that 2.5 billion paper cups are thrown away every year and only under 1% of these are recycled.
Paper cups must be recycled separately to other dry mixed materials (like paper, plastic) as they require a specialist process to strip their inner plastic lining (which allows the cups to retain heat and provide a barrier to liquids) before the high quality fibre can then be recycled. Paper cup recycling is available for businesses across the UK, and below we explore the numerous benefits of recycling these popular single-use items and the positive impact it can have on the environment.
- Reduction in Landfill/Incinerated Waste: One of the primary advantages of recycling paper cups is the significant reduction in waste thrown away as part of ‘general waste’. Paper cups, when disposed of improperly, contribute CO2 emissions associated with landfill sites and incineration facilities. By recycling, we divert these cups away from general waste and minimise the environmental harm it causes.
- Conservation of Resources: The production of paper cups involves the use of valuable natural resources such as trees and water. Recycling paper cups helps conserve these resources by reducing the demand for raw materials. As the UK promotes a circular economy, recycling paper cups aligns with sustainable practices, ensuring that resources are used efficiently and responsibly.
- Supporting the Circular Economy: Recycling paper cups contributes to a circular economy, whereby materials can be recycled and reused in ‘second life’ products, reducing the need for continuous extraction of new resources. Moving away from a linear approach (take, make, waste), to a more circular approach, is essential for creating a sustainable and resilient system that minimises waste, encourages recycling, and fosters environmental responsibility.
- Job Creation and Economic Benefits: The recycling industry plays a vital role in job creation and economic development. By supporting the recycling of paper cups, the UK promotes the growth of this industry, creating employment opportunities and stimulating economic activity. This positive cycle enhances the overall well-being of communities while contributing to a greener future.
- Promotion of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): Businesses in the UK are increasingly recognising the importance of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). By adopting recycling initiatives, companies demonstrate their commitment to sustainability, fostering positive public relations and consumer loyalty. Consumers can be more likely to support businesses that prioritise environmental responsibility, creating a win-win situation for both the business and the planet.
- Educational and Behavioural Impact: Recycling paper cups in the UK also has educational benefits. It raises awareness about waste management and encourages individuals to adopt responsible disposal practices. The more people understand the positive impact of recycling, the more likely they are to actively participate in sustainable behaviours.
If you are interested in recycling paper cups in your business (no matter how big or small), then find more information on co-cre8’s nationwide Paper Cup Recycling Scheme HERE, or get in touch with us enquiries@co-cre8.earth / 03330 165088.
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Keshari joined the co-cre8 team in 2022 and is responsible for the daily management of the business finances including financial reporting, purchase ledger, sales ledger and building relationships with customers and suppliers.
Wayne joined the co-cre8 team in 2022 and brings more than two decade’s worth of operational and commercial experience in the food service packaging and waste management sectors. With co-cre8’s portfolio of three business divisions, Wayne spreads his unrivalled skillset across multiple activities including for our Honest brand, internal Waste and Recycling Stations and System Design partnership projects. Wayne plays a key role in ensuring co-cre8’s operations are commercially viable, building and maintaining great relationships with suppliers, ensuring the smooth success of projects and keeping a smile on everyone’s face!
We welcomed Hannah to the team in January 2022 to grow and develop our Built Environment business division. Hannah brings a wealth of skills to the team including her fantastic communication and eye for detail.
Katie joined the team in December 2021, and plays a key role in supporting the Sales and Marketing Manager with all sales and marketing activity across the co-cre8 and Honest brands. Katie’s main responsibilities include pro-actively developing and reactively managing business-to-business sales opportunities, processing orders, general customer service and supporting with the creation and delivery of marketing campaigns.
Prior to co-founding co-cre8 in 2019, Peter spent 10 years as a UK Director of Closed Loop Environmental Solutions. With a passion for recycling and, as one of the UK’s leading exponents of promoting more circular solutions, Peter created and delivered many pioneering industry projects, most notably the Simply Cups scheme.
James has over 20 years’ experience in the waste and recycling industry. Starting with just one second hand truck, he founded and developed Simply Waste Solutions into a thriving, profitable business with a £35m turnover. In 2020, James decided that he was ready for new challenges and took Simply Waste to a successful exit, selling to Biffa plc for £40m.
Natalie joins the co-cre8 team with extensive knowledge and experience in waste, recycling, and circular business models, with her speciality in Finance. For the last 17 years, Natalie has worked, and was a shareholder, in a start-up, high growth to exit waste and recycling business, with 15 years spent at board level.
Georgia joined the team at co-cre8 in 2020 and is responsible for developing the business through creative thinking and effective communication via sales and marketing channels.
Rachel originally joined the co-cre8 team in 2019 as Customer Service Specialist for Simply Cups. Her role has since evolved, following the launch of the Built Environment range, where she now heads up all logistics including supplier liaising, order processing and general operations of the business.