Starbucks is piloting fully compostable cups in five cities
Starbucks is piloting cups that are just like the company’s normal cups, but the plastic lining has been replaced with a compostable liner, making the cups recyclable and compostable.
Circular economy & zero waste
This archive tracks real progress in circular economy design and zero-waste systems — from industrial material loops and packaging innovation to municipal composting and repair-culture movements. These stories show how waste is being redesigned out of the economy, not just managed after the fact.
Landmark French law will stop unsold goods being thrown away
France is to ban designer clothes and luxury goods companies from destroying unsold or returned items under a wide-ranging anti-waste law passed by parliament.
Malaysia begins refusing shipments of plastic waste from rich countries
Malaysia has sent back 150 containers of plastic waste to 13 countries since the Q3 2019, with the environment minster warning that those who want to make the country a rubbish bin of the world can “dream on.”
E.U. Commission passes new laws to make large appliances easier to repair
The so-called “Right to Repair” law says spare parts should remain available for at least seven to ten years after the appliance has been sold.
Thailand to ban imports of high-tech trash, plastic waste
Southeast Asia nations fear they are the new dumping ground for the world’s trash after China banned the entry of several types of waste as part of a campaign against foreign garbage.
Guatemala to ban plastic bags, straws, cups beginning 2021
The measure gives merchants two years to phase out bags, straws, plates, cups and containers made from plastic or plastic foam, and replace them with compostable items.
India bans six single-use plastic products
India is set to impose a nationwide ban on plastic bags, cups and straws on Oct. 2, in its most sweeping measure yet to stamp out single-use plastics.
New York City begins enforcing Styrofoam ban
The city banned Styrofoam because the material can’t be “recycled in a manner that is economically feasible” or “environmentally effective.”
G20 agree to reduce marine plastic
The agreement promised to “promote a comprehensive life-cycle approach to urgently and effectively prevent and reduce plastic litter discharge to the oceans.”
Costa Rica bans use of Styrofoam containers
Costa Rican legislators approved the law that prohibits the import, marketing, and distribution of polystyrene containers.