If you're like me and are wondering this, why not just skip that single-use plastic coated paper cup? No human being should go a day without their cup o' java right? First off, why not skip the whole nonsense of recycling and try to reduce the pollution being created in the first place and order your hot cup of coffee in a mug. The energy and water expended on making these cups is ridiculous (and don't forget about all the other single-use utensils and dishes).
It's questionable to say if these cups get recycled or not. There are efforts to track if these cups actually end up at the recycling facility, even so - consumers do not know if there are efforts in recycling them at the facility itself. Although some recycling facilities claim they accept these coffee cups, experts indicate that coffee cups in fact cannot be recycled due to the plastic lining inside the cup.
While the ever so popular Starbucks and Tim Horton's coffee chain has recently reviewed their recycling programs across the country, there is no transparency whatsoever. So the point is, consumer practices must change if we want to counter the waste issue. Tim Horton's needs to do a better job as they are promoting waste with their roll-up-the-rim-to-win marketing tactic.
If we can find ways to avoid waste generation without expending more energy and resources, that would be a perfect world, no? Humans are inventive and innovative - so when problems arise we can ultimately use our creativity and try to fix issues (and almost 100% cause more consequential issues). In hindsight, we can only learn if mistakes are being made.
If the costs don't exceed the benefits in both the short- and long-term then perhaps the environment is okay (for now anyways). Yes the convenience is nice for you on-the-go busy bees, BUT when do we say enough is enough?
Remember fellow consumers, always stay informed and skeptical!
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