How to dispose your product
Compostable Coffee Cups
As environmental concerns grow, correctly disposing of single-use packaging is vital to reducing landfill waste. Compostable coffee cups and lids offer a more eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastic or Styrofoam, but only if disposed of properly. These products are designed for commercial composting facilities, and many cafés and restaurants in Australia provide designated bins for compostable waste. Most councils do not accept compostable cups in FOGO (Food Organics Garden Organics) bins, so it’s important to check local guidelines.
To identify compostable cups, look for certifications such as AS 4736 or AS 5810, which ensure they will break down under the right conditions. While home composting may work if cups are broken into small pieces and balanced with green and brown materials, commercial composting is preferred. Avoid disposing of compostable cups in regular garbage bins, as they may not decompose properly in landfill conditions. Proper disposal ensures these products fulfill their environmental purpose.
PET Cups
Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) cold cups are commonly used for beverages like iced tea, soft drinks, and smoothies due to their clarity and strength. Proper disposal and recycling of these cups are essential to reduce environmental impact.
PET cups can usually be recycled through curbside programs if they are clean and free of food or drink residues. Before recycling, rinse the cups and remove any straws, lids, or components made from different materials, as these may contaminate the recycling process. If curbside recycling isn’t available, local drop-off centers often accept PET plastics for proper processing.
To further reduce waste, consider using reusable cups or bottles, as many cafés provide incentives for bringing your own. Recycling PET cups responsibly and opting for reusable alternatives helps minimize single-use plastic waste, lower your environmental footprint, and promote sustainable habits.
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Why This Matters
Doing right by the planet doesn’t have to be complicated. With so much greenwashing, finding what’s truly sustainable can be tricky. At ONEarth, we cut through the noise—evaluating every product against clear, fact-based criteria and tailoring solutions to your needs. Truth over trends, always.
