Coca-Cola welcomed 2009 with a step towards being more environmentally friendly by implementing compostable paper cups for soft drinks at the University of Washington.
International Paper created the cups for Coca Cola fountain drinks; unlike the other paper cups and containers available, Coca-Cola’s compostable cups are far less damaging to the environment.
The paperboard in standard paper cups is coated with polyethylene, a petrochemical-based plastic that makes the cup liquid-resistant. Coca-Cola cups are also layered with plastic, but the material used is made from plants and other renewable resources. This new coating used is already tested and certified by the Biodegradable Products Institute to pass the standards for composting.
Coca Cola’s project was initiated in accordance to the city of Seattle’s mandate that all packaging must be compostable by the month of July in 2010. University of Washington is the pilot site for the project, since they requested a compostable cup from the company back in 2007.
Compostable Soda Cups
Coca-Cola's Eco-Friendly Fountain Cups Debut at UW
Trend Themes
1. Compostable Packaging - The use of compostable cups in the beverage industry presents an opportunity for companies to adopt compostable packaging as a more environmentally friendly option.
2. Renewable Resources - Utilizing renewable resources in packaging materials, such as the plant-based plastic used in Coca-Cola's compostable cups, can drive innovation and sustainability in various industries.
3. City Mandates - As more cities implement compostable packaging regulations, businesses can explore new opportunities to develop eco-friendly solutions and meet the increasing demand for sustainable products.
Industry Implications
1. Beverage Industry - The introduction of compostable cups can encourage the beverage industry to shift towards more sustainable packaging methods and reduce their environmental impact.
2. Packaging Industry - The development of compostable packaging materials provides the packaging industry with a chance to innovate and create eco-friendly alternatives to traditional packaging options.
3. Sustainability Consulting - With the rise of compostable packaging, there is a growing need for sustainability consulting services to assist businesses in implementing environmentally friendly practices and meeting regulatory requirements.