Tripod Coffee's compostability and Pod-to-Plant™ returns program allow our pods to help local farmers vs. fill landfills.
-
In a world where many pods claim to be "sustainable", here's a helpful guide to be sure you're doing the right thing for the environment.
If you're looking to fill that little space in your Nespresso® machine, there's no shortage of companies who would love to help.
We think that it's great that our industry is growing. But we don't think it's great when that growth comes with a lack of responsibility.
After a shop around Google, you'll notice many companies claiming they're "Compostable and Biodegradable". Unfortunately, those claims do not correlate to a more sustainable, or responsible, purchase.
So how do you know if your coffee pod company is pulling a fast one on your or if you're making a truly sustainable purchase?
Here are 3 telltale hints that a pod is not eco-friendly:
1. Their pods have aluminium lids!
If there is aluminium on the product it is not compostable or biodegradable. Did you know roughly 10% of Australia's electricity goes into making new aluminium? And recycling aluminium requires special waste streams no included in your local council recycling set-up.**
It might look like this:
2. Lack of Australian Certification.
While there are international certifications available (most commonly TUV Okay Compost), they are not accepted by Australian organics recycling facilities. So pods with international composting certifications will not be composted commercially.
3. No mention of a Returns Program.
If the company doesn't clearly outline the proper means of disposal, which in most cases is a Returns Program, that's probably because they don't actually have one.
Wondering about Tripod's responsibility credentials?
Well, here are just a few:
1. 100% plant-based capsules
Our coffee pods are made of 100% plant-based materials, lids and all (aluminium free).
2. Australian Certified Compostable, AS 4736
They also comply with OK biobased and OK compost international certifications for materials quality and sustainable inputs (as seen on our packaging).
Australian Bioplastics Association Certification:
3. Green Bin Disposal
Because our pods are 100% Australian Certified, they can be put in residential Green Bins in some major Australian metro areas such as Adelaide and Hobart.
4. Our Pod-to-Plant™ Returns Program
When you return your pods to us, they're composted in a Sydney-based organic recycling facility. You can opt-in to this program by adding a Paid Post Label and Certified Compostable Mailer to your purchase.
5. Fertiliser is put to good use
The fertiliser created from our composted pods goes directly to local farmers.
Sip Responsibly,
The Tripod Team
External link:
**https://www.suez.com.au/en-au/sustainability-tips/recycling-tips/aluminium-cans
