Brooklyn Roasting Company to Reduce Use of Disposable Cups

Brooklyn Roasting Company announced an initiative that aims to cut the number of paper cups it uses in cafes by half in 2020. Beginning March 15, the company will levy a 10-cent charge for all paper cups while rewarding customers who bring reusable containers to refill with a 25-cent discount. 

Brooklyn Roasting Company's new program goes into effect just as New York City is banning the use of plastic bags in an effort to reduce waste.

The National Coffee Association estimates that Americans consume 400 million cups of coffee daily, much of it in paper cups. Brooklyn Roasting Company prides itself in taking a leadership position among New York City cafes in its advocacy for a progressive environmental agenda.

"For the past decade, Brooklyn Roasting Company has been focused on sustainability and fair trade," said the company in a statement. "We actively supported the Greta Thunberg-led climate strike in New York City. Beyond our backyard, it's important to come together to respond to our shared ecological crisis. Let's not forget the toll being taken on global coffee farming communities. With the help of our customers, we know we can do what's right for the planet and people."

This is not the first time Brooklyn Roasting Company has set its sights on addressing environmental concerns. The coffee company said it has been devoted to being globally conscious from the start, including by: