Paper cups can be recycled in the UK
Many retailers use a polyethylene lined cup, which is made from 95% sustainably sourced virgin fibre paper and 5% polyethylene plastic lining which keeps the cup waterproof.
The National Cup Recycling Scheme identified that these PE lined paper cups can be recycled in the UK. There are currently five recycling facilities in the UK that accept paper cups: James Cropper, D S Smith, ACE UK, Essity and through Circular & Co.
In the UK the main challenge lies in collecting paper cups as they must be collected as a separate waste stream.
There are many other types of cups available such as biodegradable, compostable or aqueous lined. Whichever the cup type, the National Cup Recycling Scheme can assist to ensure the cups make it to the correct re-processor for recycling or composting.
About
The National Cup Recycling Scheme sees major retailers working together to create a system for collecting and recycling hot and cold paper cups – this includes everything from coffee cups to milkshake cups.
Launched in April 2018, the National Cup Recycling Scheme was setup by Costa Coffee and is now co-funded by seven other major brands including McDonald’s, Caffè Nero, Pret A Manger, Greggs, Burger King, Pure and Lavazza Professional.