If you’ve bought a coffee on campus recently, you’ve probably noticed something a little different—your usual takeaway cup and plastic lid are gone, replaced by The Good Cup.
Why the Change?
This new shift is part of King’s wider sustainability efforts. Did you know that a standard 12oz takeaway coffee cup contains:
· Plastic lid: 3.5g of plastic
· Plastic coating inside the cup: 0.825g of plastic
· A total plastic per cup: 4.325g
In 2024 alone, Kings used 208,626 cups, generating over 902kg of plastic waste, that's nearly a tonne in just one year!
Despite recycling efforts, much of this plastic still ends up in landfill or as pollution. And according to different research, some plastics from the coating could even end up in your drink.
The Good Cup: A sustainable alternative
Some students and staff have raised concerns about practicality and ease of use, preferring the old design. However, The Good Cup isn’t just a replacement—it’s an award-winning innovation designed to eliminate plastic waste.
Recognised for its sustainability and ingenuity, The Good Cup has won multiple awards, including accolades for eco-friendly design and waste reduction. By removing the need for plastic lids and coating, it offers a fully compostable solution that helps reduce the environmental impact of single use cups.
Want a more sustainable choice? Bring your own cup
If The Good Cup isn’t for you, bringing your own reusable cup is an even better alternative. It’s the most sustainable option, helping to cut waste entirely—and you’ll also save money by avoiding the disposable levy.
As the first London university to adopt The Good Cup, King’s is taking a step towards reducing plastic waste, particularly during Zero Waste Month. The university is also exploring a deposit cup system as part of a long-term effort to phase out disposables altogether.
Sustainability isn’t about a one-size-fits-all approach; it’s about making mindful choices that benefit both you and the planet.
For more info on King's Food and how they're making a difference through sustainability check out their page here.
A three-panel image highlighting The Good Cup’s sustainability: "Biodegradable in Nature," "Compostable at Home," and "Recyclable with Paper."