Single Use Cups in Scotland
Single-use and disposable cups are used frequently in businesses and homes throughout Scotland, however they are having a harmful impact on our environment.
Impact of single-use cups
Disposable cups can be seen in cafés, supermarkets and even staff rooms around Scotland, delivering the people of Scotland lattes, tea and even cold drinks every day. But just how many are we using?
388.7 million single-use cups are used in Scotland every year, a higher rate than many countries in the European Union. This equates to over 70 cups per person, per year. While many cups are recyclable, many are sent to landfill or even littered.
The amount of single-use cups we’re using and disposing of simply isn’t sustainable. Even despite the growing usage of recyclable material in the manufacturing process, switching to reusable products is still the best course of action.
What's being done about single-use cups?
More than half of people in Scotland (56%) think more needs to be done to tackle single-use items and back additional measures such as bans or charges to reduce the amount of single-use cups we use, according to our survey.
Zero Waste Scotland has been working with organisations and businesses to pilot schemes supporting the transition away from single use products, including cups.
One of the most significant moves in recent years however has been the proposal to introduce a 25p charge on disposable cups, similar to the legislation introduced for plastic carrier bags in 2010. The consultation for this went live on 22nd August 2024 and closed on 14th November 2024.
How can businesses move away from single use
Many businesses are already leading the way – moving from single-use items to reusable alternatives. Read more about some of the examples of projects Zero Waste Scotland has been involved in, along with examples of other projects around the world that have demonstrated different approaches.
How citizens can move away from single use
Single-use items are damaging to the planet; they consume limited resources, contribute to Scotland's carbon emissions, and are still disposed of after just one use. Instead, the priority should be to reduce all single-use items, regardless of the material. Use our resources to find out how you can reduce single-use.
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