ASU Supply Chain Management leads reusable K-Cup® transition

The ASU Supply Chain Management team found a sustainable alternative for single-use plastic K-Cups to reduce operating expenses and waste sent to ASU’s landfill.

From July through December 2023, University Services Building staff used 4,660 K-Cups®. The ASU Zero Waste department subsequently spent $1,289 to recycle the K-Cups via the Blue Bag Program.

The Supply Chain Management team believed offering reusable K-Cups® and disposing of used grounds in a nearby compost bin using the Office Compost Program would save money and reduce waste.

To implement their idea, a few SCM employees applied for a Sustainability Initiatives Revolving Fund grant to cover the cost of purchasing reusable K-Cups and coffee bean grinders to replace single-use K-Cups in the USB break area.

After receiving SIRF grant funding, SCM staff distributed a survey to gauge the interest in reusable K-Cups and coffee. They also held two events in April 2024 to build excitement about the transition, distribute reusable K-Cups and provide locally sourced and Fair Trade coffee. Approximately 250 K-Cups were distributed to USB employees.

The reusable K-Cup initiative is part of a larger effort by ASU Facilities Development and ManagementSupply Chain ManagementUniversity Sustainability Practices and Zero Waste to reduce waste recycling costs and increase sustainability efforts in ASU office spaces. Reducing single-waste plastic and food waste will help ASU create a circular resource system and reach its 30% aversion and 90% diversion goals by 2025.

Refer to the sustainable purchasing webpage for more information and training on purchasing items that help meet ASU's sustainability goals. View the Reusable K-Cup Transition Quick Guide or email USP for details on transitioning your break areas and kitchenettes to reusable K-Cups.

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