Paper cups have long been a point of confusion in recycling programs. They look like paper and feel like paper, so they should be recyclable like paper, right? Not exactly. Because of other materials used in the cups, many recycling programs didn’t accept them.
Now, that has changed.
Manitobans can recycle empty paper cups
Empty paper cups are now accepted for recycling across Manitoba. You can recycle your empty coffee cups, fountain drink cups, Slurpee cups, and other paper cups.
Hopefully this update makes recycling a bit simpler for you. Next time you have a paper cup to recycle, here’s what to do.
How to recycle paper cups
Remove the lid, empty the cup, put the cup in your recycling bin. You can leave paper sleeves on coffee cups.
Emptying cups is important. Food, liquid, and non-recyclable items can affect paper quality and hurt the recycling process.
Do NOT recycle:
- Plastic lids for coffee cups
- Straws, stir sticks, or spoons
- Cups with liquid or other content inside
Why are paper cups now accepted?
Recycling programs can only accept paper items if available paper mills can recycle them. Paper cups have a thin coating that allows them to hold liquids and often use strong dyes. These make processing more difficult and limits what paper mills can recycle cups into compared to plain paper and cardboard.
Because of this, many programs historically didn’t accept paper cups.
Our team worked with recycling partners to review processing requirements, paper market conditions, and local recycling data. We determined paper cups can be responsibly managed across Manitoba’s residential recycling system.
Reducing is still the best option
The best way to reduce waste is to use less. Most coffee shops let customers use their own travel mugs. You can ask takeout restaurants and convenience stores about using your own cups for other drinks. Bring your own cup if you plan to get a drink on the go.
If you forget your mug one morning, or spontaneously stop for a soda this summer, please recycle your cup.
➡️Share the good news with your friends. Check our guides page and our social media links below for graphics.
