Hot drinks are an essential part of our daily routines, but many of us don’t realize the hidden environmental and health consequences in every cup. From the expansive carbon footprint of coffee pods, to the staggering waste of countless ‘to-go’ cups’, to the microplastics found in many tea bags; those warm, cozy drinks can have a surprising impact on both the planet and our bodies. 

Fortunately, simple, sustainable swaps make it easy to reduce waste, lower emissions, and minimize the microplastic exposure that comes from these comforting beverages.

The dark side of coffee

Single-serve coffee pods and low-cost coffee makers may be convenient, but they contribute heavily to e-waste, manufacturing emissions, and landfill buildup. Most pods are made from mixed plastic and aluminum that are difficult or impossible for recycling plants to process, while disposable-grade machines break quickly and require constant replacement. 

The environmental impact of tea bags

Although many tea companies claim their bags are ‘compostable’, the truth is that many are made from polypropylene or other plastics used to seal or reinforce the bag, and when placed in boiling water, these materials can release microplastics directly into the beverage. This adds to global plastic pollution and increases our own exposure to tiny synthetic particles that may influence inflammation, hormone balance, and long-term health. 

The problem with 'to-go' cups

You might think that paper cups seem like an excellent eco-friendly option to plastic ones, some may even claim to be made from recycled materials. But did you know that most are lined with a thin plastic coating that sheds microplastics when exposed to heat? With more than 250 billion disposable cups thrown away each year, paper cup pollution creates enormous landfill waste and contributes to deforestation, manufacturing emissions, and plastic contamination. 

Tips to sip sustainably

If you’d like to enjoy those warm, delicious drinks without causing harm to your health or the environment, follow these simple tips: 

• Switch to manual coffee brewing methods like french presses, pour-over cones with reusable filters, or Moka pots to eliminate single-use pods and reduce plastic exposure

• Invest in durable, high-quality equipment to avoid the constant replacement cycle of lower-cost varieties

• Choose loose-leaf teas, and store them in your own glass mason jars, to completely avoid the microplastics found in tea bags

• Use Pura Stainless’ reusable bottles, that are made from food-grade stainless steel, medical grade silicone, for a truly plastic-free drinking experience!
  

At Pura Stainless, we’re on a mission to give families everywhere sustainable products that not only protect our environment, but our health, too. Our line of water bottles, lunch containers, even baby bottles are made from food-grade stainless steel and medical-grade silicone — meaning they’re free from microplastics of any kind. Shop now and sip sustainably!