If you run a café, food service business, or manage sourcing for a chain, you’ve probably heard that paper cups are the eco-friendly choice. Here’s the truth: most aren’t as green as they seem. Let’s examine what’s really inside that “paper” cup.
The Coating You Can’t See
Look inside any disposable paper cup and you’ll notice a smooth, glossy lining. This layer is typically polyethylene (PE), the world’s most commonly used plastic.
While PE prevents leaks and keeps cups stable in heat or moisture, it has serious drawbacks:
- It makes the cup nearly impossible to recycle
- It doesn’t break down in composting systems
- It sheds microplastics into the environment
- It can leach chemicals into hot drinks within minutes
Research shows that drinking just three hot beverages daily from PE-lined cups could lead to ingesting 75,000 microplastic particles per year. This isn’t just a minor concern—it’s a hidden threat with lasting consequences.
Bioplastics Like PLA: Better, But Not Ideal
Polylactic acid (PLA) is marketed as a sustainable alternative. Though made from corn starch and technically compostable, it only breaks down in specialized industrial facilities.
PLA coatings linger for years in landfills and need specific conditions that most waste facilities can’t provide. They also raise concerns about agricultural resources.
While PLA may seem better than PE, it falls short of being a true solution.
Aqueous Coating: The Smarter Alternative
Water-based (aqueous) coatings are revolutionizing cup production. These coatings integrate directly into paper fibers, creating a moisture barrier without harmful plastics.
Why it matters:
- They are fully compostable and recyclable
- They don’t create microplastics
- They don’t leach toxins into beverages
- They meet strict environmental and safety standards
How to Choose Better Cups
When upgrading your cups, ask these key questions:
- Is it PE-free and PLA-free?
- Is the coating aqueous or water-based?
- Is it BPI certified compostable?
- Does the product meet ISO, FSC, or other recognized certifications?
- Can your supplier provide full transparency on materials?
If you receive vague answers to any of these questions, dig deeper—or look elsewhere.
Why This Matters for Business
Switching to truly compostable cups isn’t just environmentally responsible—it’s smart business:
- Aligns with growing consumer demand for sustainability
- Reduces landfill costs and streamlines recycling
- Future-proofs your operation against incoming regulations
- Strengthens your brand reputation
This goes beyond an environmental checkbox—it’s about protecting against hidden costs, reputation risks, and lasting environmental damage.
What We Offer
SoGreenPack provides thick, high-quality biodegradable cups lined with options to include aqueous coatings. They handle heat, cold, and transport without failing—and leave no environmental trace when they break down.
Ready to make the switch?
We’ll show you options that work better and cost less—without the hidden impact.