Sadly, most single-use capsules aren't recyclable. And for the capsules that can be recycled, unless they make it a commercial recycling facility, almost all end up incinerated, or in places like landfill and our oceans. Half the plastic used in the world today, is used in single-use items. The issues around renewable and non-renewable resources are complex, however the sustainability hierarchy is incontrovertible – reduce, reuse, recycle – recycling is the last resort. It is less about material than it is about volume.
Bluecup capsules and its components are ISO certified, BPA free, and have been tested for food safety and durability. The capsule itself is made from polypropylene. This is because polypropylene #5 is the safest food-grade plastic.
Why plastic? It's fully recyclable, stable and widely recycled globally. It's stackable and lightweight, reducing freight requirements and carbon footprint. It's fit for purpose - heat resistant, lightweight, unbreakable. It provides low embodied energy manufacturing capabilities. Bluecup capsules utilise polypropylene, as it is the most widely recycled plastic in the world, so they can be recycled when the eventually reach the end of their use.
While there are alternative materials on the market, such as PLA (plant based) plastics, that are now used extensively as ‘biodegradable’, ‘compostable’ or ‘recyclable’ alternatives to typical polymers, the specialised recycling services and industrial composting facilities required are not readily available or accessible to consumers.
Bluecup is not made from recycled plastics. The use of recycled plastic for multiple use items is not currently recommended for food-contact articles. This is mainly due to the threat of contaminates from non-food safe chemicals throughout the recycling process. To ensure the safety of our consumers, long product life, and safety for use when heating, Bluecup capsules are created from polypropylene.
As a business, amongst other sustainability practices, we are committed to a responsible supply chain. But all this amounts to nothing, if the reusable you choose, sits dusty in the cupboard, or breaks after a few uses. At Crema Joe, we believe that the best reusable is the one you use, and whilst sustainable supply and manufacture are crucial, quality and enjoyment play a role in adopting new behaviours.