Reusable packaging: the battle to get companies to ditch single-use plastics

A US report argues that to move away from a disposable culture, businesses need robust, efficient reuse systems For several months last year, patrons of a Seattle coffee shop called Tailwind Cafe had the option of ordering their Americanos and lattes in a returnable metal to-go cup; they could simply borrow one from Tailwind, go on their way, and then at some point - perhaps a few hours later, perhaps on another day that week - return it to the shop, which would clean it and refill it for the next person. If the cup wasn't returned within 14 days, the customer would be charged a $15 deposit, although even that was ultimately refundable if the cup was returned by the end of 45 days.But the system quickly ran into trouble. It was "overwhelming" to explain the return system to every interested customer, said Tailwind's head chef, Kayla Tekautz. Many were hesitant to participate after learning that they could only return the cups to Tailwind or the other drop-off location, 6 miles away. Plus, Tailwind's QR code reader kept malfunctioning, requiring repeated visits from a mechanic. At the end of last summer, Tailwind quietly ended the return program. "It just didn't work."This story was originally published by Grist and is reproduced here as part of the Climate Desk collaboration. Continue reading...