The National Cup Recycling Scheme has introduced a £45,000 project fund aimed at fostering innovative solutions for capturing and recycling on-the-go paper cups. This initiative is designed to support efforts that enhance acceptance in kerbside schemes, ultimately preventing these cups from ending up in landfill. Note that the competition closes on 31 October, with the winner revealed in December.
Hannah Osman, the manager of the scheme—administered by Valpak by Reconomy—stated: “This new fund is a major investment to encourage innovation in cup recycling infrastructure and reuse. We are hoping to trigger scalable ideas that will make a real difference in the future.”
Organizations, businesses, and communities are invited to apply, including partnerships and collaborations. Applicants may submit proposals in one of three key areas:
- Awareness campaigns – Engaging and creative behavior change initiatives that promote cup recycling in workplaces, events, or public spaces.
- Recycling infrastructure improvements – Groundbreaking innovations that enhance cup collection, return, and sorting in high-footfall locations.
- Research and Evidence Building – High-quality, novel research that addresses critical challenges in paper cup recycling, such as enhancing recyclability, improving recovery rates, and evaluating the potential for household recycling schemes.
Shortlisted candidates will receive financial support and expert guidance to refine their proposals. They will also benefit from networking opportunities and referrals to relevant stakeholders, assisting them in preparing their final pitch. The three finalists will develop comprehensive project proposals, culminating in a final interview with a judging panel comprised of NCRS brands.
The National Cup Recycling Scheme stands as the UK’s largest paper cup recycling initiative. Supported by notable brands such as Costa Coffee, McDonald’s, Pret a Manger, Caffè Nero, Lavazza Professional, Greggs, and Burger King, it aims to unite major retailers, waste management companies, and UK paper mills to increase the collection and recycling of paper cups across the country.
Since its inception, the scheme has successfully recycled 233 million cups into high-quality products, including food and drink packaging, stationery, and even Remembrance Day poppies.
Potential applicants seeking further information can visit the Beyond the Bin Fund | Recycling Paper Cups.