(GUF) THE REUSABLE EVENT CUP

The biggest challenge isn't the cup - it's the system supporting it. Gigs and events desperately need to find the solution to the problematic issue of waste cups and tableware if they're really going to crack the sustainability issue.

Let's be honest, there is no 'good' recyclable cup. Forget the composting myths surrounding PLA and it's EN13432 credentials - if an IVC manager thinks it threatens their PAS100 accreditation, the item's not going to get composted.

Recycling, likewise is far from being a potential silver bullet. Logic would suggest a PP cup; reality will tell you that unless you can wash them post use, and then package them in a way making them viable for minimum transport and the polymer reprocessors, they're not particularly liked by the recycling industry.

So this leaves reusables as are being tried, tested, experimented with by Glastonbury, kambe events, rubbish ideas and Massive Attack to name but a few.

Best Material for Reusable Cups & Tableware

The best material depends on balancing durability, recyclability, energy use, and practicality.

Polypropylene (PP) – A durable and relatively lightweight plastic. It can be washed and reused hundreds of times but its recyclability is challenging unless part of a well-managed closed-loop system

Polycarbonate (PC) – Tougher than PP, scratch-resistant, and longer-lasting. However, it’s heavier, more expensive, and doesn’t always sit well with recyclers.

Stainless Steel – Highly durable, fully recyclable, and premium-looking, but expensive, heavy, and not always practical at large-scale events

Bioplastics (PLA/PHA) – Great on paper but largely a waste nightmare; unless an In-Vessel Composter (IVC) is specifically set up to accept them (most aren’t), they’re about as compostable as a tennis racket.

Silicone – Flexible, long-lasting, but expensive and not widely recycled.

Best Operating Structure: Deposit Return vs. Other Models

Several models are being trialed, but none have emerged as the undisputed king.

Deposit Return Scheme (DRS)

Customers pay a deposit (£1 - £5) and get it back when they return the cup. Works well in controlled environments (e.g., sports stadiums) but needs strong logistics.

Risk: People walk off with cups, and events need to factor in lost inventory.

Token-Based Systems

Customers get a token with their first drink purchase and swap it for a clean cup each time. Reduces hoarding but can be confusing and still needs collection/washing infrastructure.

Cup Rental Subscription

Some events offer a reusable cup service where customers "rent" cups for a small fee (e.g., £1). Works if people accept paying for reuse rather than expecting a free cup.

Branded Souvenir Cups

Higher-quality cups that people are encouraged to keep. Risk: They still get binned at the end of the night.

Best Pricing Structure

Pricing is key to adoption and behavior change. 

• Low Deposit (£1- £2): Encourages return but doesn’t sting if forgotten.
• Higher Deposit (£3 - £5): More incentive to return but risks complaints.
• Built into Drink Price: Simplifies the process but means all customers pay even if they return.

Subscription Model: If events share a cup scheme (like reusable transport cards), customers don’t need to pay every time.

The Real Challenge: Logistics & Washing

Without proper washing infrastructure near events, reusables don’t reach their full potential.

Systems like CupClub (which partners with city-wide washing stations) could be the way forward, but only if event organisers are willing to invest.

Reusables are the future, but the success will depend on logistics, consumer behaviour, and financial incentives. Back to where I started - the biggest challenge isn't the cup; it's the system supporting it. More like this (GUFF) - link - more like this (reusables) - link