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Runners-up included a gourd cup grown in 3D-printed molds and a compostable cup grown from mushrooms. Among the winners of the NextGen Cup Challenge were a reusable cup rental system, a plant-based and biodegradable single-use cup, and a fiber-based cup and lid. Potential solutions are coming in at all angles, from every corner of the world. In other words, even if consumers conscientiously use the blue bin, the vast majority of paper cups are tossed in landfills. Generally speaking, cup materials are not valuable enough to justify the cost of processing it. However, most paper mills are not yet modified for the purpose.ĭespite proof that it’s technically possible to recycle your typical plastic-lined paper cup, most recyclers lack the incentive to make it happen. Over the last few years, several paper mills have made adjustments to the recycling process to the extent that there are paper mills that can repulp and recycle the polyethylene coated cup. Market Segment Manager for Functional Packaging Instead of working with clogged filters, which are disruptive to productivity, it is easier to send the plastic-lined cups to the landfill. What makes the plastic liner different from other materials is that it breaks up into relatively large flakes that pass through coarse pulping screens but clog the fine screens. During the repulping process, paper mills can easily remove most contaminants and filter out unwanted substances such as dirt, dyes, and other residue. Most recycling facilities are not equipped to mechanically sort the plastic lining from the paper. To really stand a chance at long-term commercial viability, the paper cup must be durable, cost-effective and fully recyclable.Īll that is easier said than done, but BASF has developed a water-based polymer to tackle the obstacles standing in the way. The challenge recently named twelve winners, each with a chance at mainstream adoption - but the opportunities for innovation don’t end there. The NextGen Cup Challenge aims to help them find that game-changing innovation for a truly sustainable cup design. After attempts to incentivize the use of reusable cups, establish in-house recycling programs and incorporate recycled materials into their cups, heavy-hitters like Starbucks and McDonald’s are looking for a more impactful, lasting alternative to the plastic-lined paper cup.