If you look up the definition of environmental sustainability, google will explain it as a state in which the demands placed on the environment can be met without reducing it's capacity to allow all people to live well, now and in the future.
This is a bit of an elusive definition because it doesn't really explain what it takes to be environmentally sustainable. There is a lot of information out there explaining how we pollute the environment but not a lot of solutions. For example The Huffington Post recently commented on five factors that have a major impact on carbon footprint. They include where you live, what you eat, how you commute, how you invest, and who you vote for, however, some of this commentary is still abstract and doesn't really offer a daily solution to sustainability. According to the EPA (United Stated Environmental Protection Agency) there are five steps to sustainability to which Cupture would like to offer a daily solution.
First Step: Avoid
There is a lot of waste that can be avoided by taking simple steps that require just a little bit of planning. This might seem obvious but it is a simple fact that often becomes an afterthought. For example, bringing reusable bags to the grocery store eliminates the need to use plastic bags. Another simple step is making coffee at home and taking it on the go with our crystal sip and shake tumbler. Without stopping for your daily caffeine fix on the way to work, you reduce your carbon footprint by decreasing gas emissions and lower waste management by not using a disposable cup.
Second Step: Reduce
Similar to avoiding, this is a simple step that just takes a little planning. One benefit of disposable items is the convenience of clean up. This is an enticing incentive for people constantly on the go or those who are trying to plan an event. However, reducing doesn't necessarily cost the consumer convenience. For example, when planning a party, Cupture's party packs are a great substitute for disposable cups. The hello name tags make it easy for people to hold onto their cup and the durable lid and straw means less spills! For those on the go, having a pack of cups allows a different cup for everyday so there's no need to be constantly cleaning the same cup day in and day out.
Third Step: Reuse
This is a huge step. Global Stewards says that replacing disposables is one of the biggest steps in environmental sustainability. “Wherever possible, replace disposable products with reusable ones.” They encourage consumers to “simplify your life as much as possible. Only keep belongings that you use/enjoy on a regular basis. By making the effort to reduce what you own, you will naturally purchase less/create less waste in the future”. This is major advice! Furthermore Missouri State encourages to “opt for Tupperware instead of zip-lock bags, reusable bags instead of disposable ones, reusable bottles, or a reusable cup for beverages instead of buying them in a bottle, can, or glass jar”. Need to look for some new reusable gear, we got you covered.
The EPA illustrates the following as the biggest benefits of Reducing and Reusing:
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Decreases the amount of pollution as the demand to harvest new raw materials decreases.
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Saves energy!
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Creates a healthier global climate by reducing the amount of greenhouse gas emissions.
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Major factor in maintaining environmental sustainability.
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Saves money!
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Reduces the amount of waste that needs to be sent to landfills, incinerators, or recycled.
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Creates satisfied consumers as products are used to their fullest extent.
Fourth Step: Recycle
Unlike a few years ago, this is actually a less desirable action. In order to maintain environmental sustainability the demand to recycle products needs to go down. The energy and materials it takes to recycle is actually contradictory to the purpose of sustainability. It is not all together bad and actually does help eliminate landfill waste. Cupture as a conscious company is aware of this environmental issue which is why a percentage of our products are made from recycled materials. All of our products are FDA approved and BPA free.
Fifth Step: Disposable
This is obviously the last and final step. It is undesirable but at times unavoidable. The key is to dispose responsibly. Looking out for local e-waste events and recycling whenever possible is a great way to help reduce landfill waste.
Cupture's Conscious Approach Toward Environmental Responsibility:
Using any of our reusable cups is the perfect daily solution to satisfy the first three steps in sustainability. Make our cups a daily part of your routine to not only add convenience to your life but also reduce the production demand of disposable products and avoid creating more waste. Browse now to take a step toward stylish sustainability.
