Typically, over 95% of single-use cups are incinerated or end up in landfill. Why? Because the materials they’re made from are incredibly difficult to recycle. It’s not easy to sort polyethylene (PE) lined cups from general waste, nor to remove the liner from the paper. Paper cups with compostable polylactic acid (PLA) liners are more eco-friendly, but they’re also frequently caught up with the curb-side trash. Moreover, there aren’t enough industrial composting facilities to cope with the demand. And even if these recycling streams flowed smoothly, the materials recovered aren’t suitable for use in new paper products, so there’s no way to close the circle. But environmentally conscious coffee-lovers needn’t despair just yet.
There’s a new solution in town. A brand-new type of reusable cup is set to revolutionise sustainability in the takeaway drinks scene. The EcoCore reusable cup is made using Bockatech’s innovative EcoCore technology. Developed in partnership with Borealis, the EcoCore cup is not only reusable, it’s also 100% recyclable because it’s entirely made of polypropylene (PP). This is made possible using injection molding from plasticpackaging professionals Miko Pac, and state-of-the-art in mold labeling (IML) from MCC Verstraete.
"This is the most sustainable coffee cup the world has ever seen," says Philip Knapen, Application Marketing Manager at Borealis. "It’s both reusable and recyclable. It’s also very economical, so everyone is left smiling: manufacturers, retailers and consumers."
EcoCore is an innovative, patented technology that creates insulated packaging with skin-foam walls quickly. It’s strong and lightweight at the same time. And that’s not all; this amazing technology keeps the liquid inside hot while the outside of the cup stays cool. "The unique foaming process we’ve used makes things a lot more comfortable for people who like their drinks piping hot," says Benny Verheyen, Key Account Manager at Miko Pac.
You don’t have to worry about burning your fingers!
Benny Verheyen, Key Account Manager at Miko Pac
With sustainability as the key goal, EcoCore cups were created to ensure ultimate recyclability. Using IML was a no-brainer - and that meant calling in the experts. Both Miko Pac and Borealis have long-standing, successful relationships with MCC Verstraete. IML is a low-cost labelling solution that’s not only sustainable, but visually spectacular. It offers endless options for multi - coloured graphics and a wide variety of surface finishes. With customisable IML, EcoCore cups can be perfectly tailored for any brand with durable designswash them again and again and they’ll always come out looking fresh. Plus, when they do reach the end of their lives, they’re completely recyclable, cup, label and all.
With so many benefits, EcoCore cups are set to shake up the industry in a wonderful way. "This is a completely new type of reusable cup," explains Martin Blacher, Director at Bockatech. "They’re more sustainable, look great and are affordable - we’re talking a fraction of the cost of comparable reusable cups. They’re also strong, with excellent grip, and they don’t easily crumple. Along with a tight-fitting lid, this rigidity helps to prevent spills, even if the cup is dropped or knocked over."
This is a completely new type of reusable cup.
Martin Blacher, Director at Bockatech
EcoCore cups make it easy and costeffective for food-service providers to offer their customers a sustainable alternative to single-use cups. The low cost means more people are able to afford their own reusable cup. They also open the door to initiatives like the Shrewsbury Cup, which enables consumers to purchase a reusable cup and return it to any participating café to be washed and reused.
The result of clever thinking and innovative design, EcoCore cups are a huge step towards a circular economy and a greener planet - all without anybody missing out on their coffee fix!
