4 Reasons to Opt for Reusable vs. Single-use
In our fast-paced world, convenience often takes precedence over sustainability. However, it's high time we reconsider our choices, especially when it comes to plastics. Single-use plastics have long been a convenient choice, but their detrimental impact on our environment cannot be ignored. 79% of plastic that has ever been made still sits in landfills or the natural environment (with the exception of the small amount that has been incinerated or recycled) [1]. In this article, we'll explore the benefits of choosing reusable alternatives and why it's a decision worth making.
1. You can reduce the size of the single-use market
The reusable cup market is growing rapidly as consumers become more environmentally conscious. The United Kingdom has a staggering consumption of disposable cups, with millions ending up in landfills each year. If reusable cups replaced single-use cups, carbon emissions could fall by 69%. In UK terms, a switch from disposable cups to reusable cups could save 52,000 t CO2e each year [2].
In the UK 7.7 billion plastic water bottles are used each year, with the average person in the UK now using 150 plastic water bottles every year – that’s more than 3 a week. Many are discarded, and end up polluting our rivers and seas. Staggeringly if just 1 in 10 Brits Refilled just once a week, we’d save around 340 million plastic bottles a year [3].
The numbers are astonishing, highlighting the urgent need for a shift towards reusable alternatives. While single-use plastics for beverages have been the norm for years, there is a growing shift towards reusable options. By choosing reusable cups and bottles, you can actively contribute to reducing this waste.
A significant percentage of people now prefer carrying their reusable cups and bottles for coffee, tea, water or other beverages. This trend not only reduces plastic waste but also encourages businesses to adopt more sustainable practices.
2. You can save money
One compelling reason to opt for reusable cups is the potential for significant cost savings. When you bring your own reusable cup to your favourite coffee shop, you often receive a discount on your beverage. Over time, these savings can add up, making your eco-friendly choice not only environmentally responsible but also financially savvy.
Here are the discounts from the biggest national chains [4]:
- Pret will take 50p off your drink
- Starbucks offer 25p off any hot drink, though it’s actually 30p off as there’s a 5p charge for paper cups
- Costa discount by 25p
- Caffe Nero gives double stamps (nine stamps = a free drink)
- Greggs reduce by 20p
- Paul take off 25p
3. You can still enjoy convenience
Ever found yourself parched and desperate for a drink somewhere you can't buy a drink? Summertime on the tube immediately springs to mind! The convenience of having a reusable mug or bottle filled with your favourite thirst-quencher whenever you need it, cannot be overlooked. Water refill stations now widely available too, which is great for topping up your travel drink ware for free.
Reusable cups and bottles are durable, often insulated to keep your drinks hot or cold, and are designed for long-term use. Some may find them bulkier than disposable bottles, but the environmental benefits far outweigh this minor inconvenience.
4. You can do it all with style!
Show off your personality with your reusables! Companies like Neonimo offer a wide range of reusable thermal travel drinkware that keep your drinks hot or cold. Choose our stylish and eco-friendly range of reusable Thermal Travel Mugs and Thermal Bottles help you stay hydrated on the go.
There you have it!
Reusable mugs and water bottles are great for several reasons. They reduce plastic waste, promote sustainability, help conserve resources and save you money. By choosing a high-quality reusable drink ware, you can enjoy the convenience of carrying your beverages while actively contributing to a cleaner, greener planet. The choice between reusable and single-use plastics is clear. Embracing reusable options not only benefits the environment but also your wallet. Visit refill.org.uk to and check our their app that helps make reusing and refilling easy.
So, make the switch today and join the growing movement towards a more sustainable future.
Stay colourful!
Namalee at Neonimo xx
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