The answer might surprise you- find out whether or not drink carriers are compostable and how to properly dispose of them.
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Introduction
It’s safe to say that most of us have used a drink carrier at some point in our lives. Whether it’s a paper coffee cup with a cardboard sleeve or a plastic to-go cup with a lid and straw, these carriers are convenient for on-the-go drinks. But what happens to them after we’re done with them? Are they recyclable? Compostable?
The answer is: it depends.
What are drink carriers?
Drink carriers are the paper or plastic cups that your coffee or other beverage comes in from the café or drive-thru. They’re also called cup sleeves, cup jackets, cup holders, and a variety of other names. You’ve probably seen them made of cardboard, plastic, or Styrofoam. But are they compostable?
The answer is that it depends on the material the drink carrier is made from. Paper and cardboard cup carriers are usually compostable, but plastic and Styrofoam ones are not. If you’re not sure what material your drink carrier is made from, check with the café or restaurant where you got your drink.
Compostable means that the material can be broken down by microorganisms into organic matter that can be used as fertilizer for plants. This process happens in a compost bin or pile, where there is enough airflow and moisture for microorganisms to thrive.
In contrast, plastic and Styrofoam do not break down in a compost bin or pile. They will eventually break down into smaller pieces over time, but they will never completely decompose. This means that they are not good for the environment because they will end up in landfill sites where they will take up space and release harmful chemicals into the ground..
Are drink carriers compostable?
Yes, drink carriers are compostable. They are made from a material called PLA, which stands for Polylactic Acid. PLA is a plant-based plastic that is made from renewable resources like corn or sugar cane. It is not made from fossil fuels like traditional plastics, so it is a much more environmentally-friendly option.
How can I compost my drink carrier?
There are several ways to compost your drink carrier. You can bury it in your backyard, put it in a compost bin, or take it to a commercial composting facility. If you bury it in your backyard, be sure to bury it deep enough so that animals cannot dig it up. You can also put it in a compost bin with other organic materials, such as kitchen scraps and yard waste. If you take it to a commercial composting facility, be sure to check with the facility before you drop off your drink carrier to make sure they accept this type of material.
Conclusion
The bottom line is that drink carriers are not compostable. However, they are recyclable, so if you can’t find a way to reuse them, be sure to recycle them instead of throwing them away.
