Kertakäyttökuppien

Kertakäyttökuppien, commonly referred to as disposable cups, are designed for single use and are then discarded. They are manufactured from a variety of materials, including paper, plastic, and foam. Paper cups are often coated with a thin layer of plastic or wax to prevent leakage and maintain structural integrity. Plastic cups are typically made from polypropylene (PP) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET), while foam cups are usually made from expanded polystyrene (EPS).

The primary purpose of kertakäyttökuppien is convenience and hygiene, particularly in settings such as cafes, restaurants, events, and offices where washing reusable cups is impractical or undesirable. They eliminate the need for washing, drying, and storage, saving time and resources. This also contributes to preventing the spread of germs and diseases.

However, the widespread use of disposable cups raises significant environmental concerns. Their production consumes natural resources and energy. Furthermore, many disposable cups are not readily recyclable or biodegradable, leading to substantial waste accumulation in landfills and pollution in natural environments, especially oceans. Efforts to mitigate these impacts include promoting reusable alternatives, improving recycling infrastructure, and developing more sustainable materials for disposable cup production. Some jurisdictions have implemented bans or taxes on certain types of disposable cups to encourage a shift towards more environmentally friendly options.