If you’re someone who grabs a to-go coffee before school or on weekends, you’re not alone. But have you ever thought about what happens to those single-use cups after you toss them? Spoiler: most of them end up in landfills, contributing to a massive waste problem. Let’s break down why your daily coffee habit might be impacting the environment and how easy changes can make a difference.
The Truth About Single-Use Cups
Most disposable coffee cups aren’t just paper; they have a plastic lining to prevent leaks. This lining makes them tough to recycle, meaning billions of cups get thrown away each year, ending up in landfills or even oceans. There, they can take hundreds of years to decompose, harming wildlife and polluting ecosystems.
What Can You Do?
Switching to reusable cups is one of the easiest eco-friendly changes you can make. Not only do many coffee shops offer discounts when you bring your own cup, but it also reduces your environmental footprint in a major way. Even swapping out single-use for reusable a couple of times a week adds up!
Why It Matters
Making a small effort to use a reusable cup shows that you’re serious about protecting the planet. It’s an easy habit to build that can inspire others to think more sustainably too. So next time you’re grabbing a latte, think about the impact of that cup—and consider bringing one you can use over and over. 🌱💪
