Boston Tea Party (BTP) is rallying the hospitality industry to eliminate single-use coffee cups through its Hey, Big Coffee Chain campaign. Since banning these cups in 2018, BTP has saved over one million cups from landfills and is encouraging larger chains to follow suit. CEO Sam Roberts emphasizes the urgent need for change, highlighting the significant environmental impact of disposable cups. With the UK discarding 2.5 billion cups annually and recycling rates below 0.25%, the call for action is critical.
• BTP's campaign promotes three options for customers: bringing their own cups, borrowing a reusable cup for a small fee, or purchasing eco-friendly cups.
• The café donates 10p from each takeaway drink to the Boston Foundation, supporting local youth employment.
• BTP believes that if they can make this change, larger chains with more resources can too.
This initiative matters because it sets a precedent for the entire industry, showing that collective action can lead to substantial environmental benefits. The movement aims to inspire consumers and businesses alike, fostering a culture of sustainability.
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