
“The truth is, the natural world is changing. And we are totally dependent on that world. It provides our food, water, and air. It is the most precious thing we have and we need to defend it.” – David Attenborough
Every day, countless people in Toronto grab a coffee to go, but the environmental cost of this convenience is staggering. Disposable coffee cups have become a visible symbol of urban waste, contributing to pollution, overflowing landfills, and rising greenhouse gas emissions in cities like Toronto. The COVID-19 pandemic intensified these challenges, with disposable cup waste increasing sharply since 2020, indicating that Toronto, like many cities around the world, faces an urgent need to address this environmental problem. With public health concerns dominating the agenda, waste reduction policies took a back seat during the pandemic. Many coffee shops halted the use of reusable cups, and governmental initiatives to regulate cup waste were postponed. However, as society continues to adapt, it is crucial that we seize this moment to rethink how we consume coffee. Solving this issue means looking at the big picture, including how consumers, businesses, and governments all play a role.
My master’s research, “Towards a Sustainable Coffee Cup Culture: A Comprehensive Framework for Preventing Paper Cup Waste in Toronto, Ontario,” examines this pressing issue in detail. The research aimed to explore the reasons behind the persistence of unsustainable coffee consumption habits and identify practical solutions to catalyze change within the city. Using a mixed-methods approach, I conducted a study that involved surveying 258 coffee drinkers, interviewing coffee retailers, and consulting with a city official. This analysis of consumer behaviours, business practices, and policy frameworks informed a comprehensive strategy for reducing paper cup waste effectively.

From the data, it is clear that convenience heavily influences consumer choices, often overshadowing sustainability intentions. Many individuals are reluctant to carry reusable cups throughout the day, especially when coffee shops lack supportive infrastructure. This infrastructure is essential to ensure that the effort required to use a reusable cup does not outweigh the convenience of disposable options. To make reusable cups a more convenient choice, coffee shops can implement simple yet effective measures, such as establishing cup-sharing programs, providing clear signage about the benefits of using reusable cups, and training staff to promote sustainable behaviours. These initiatives address barriers to reusable cup usage—an approach consumers value more than financial incentives—and can significantly reduce cup waste. Coffee shops can lead the way by implementing these practices and encouraging sustainable habits, while governments can reinforce these efforts with the regulatory framework necessary to create lasting change.
Toronto can position itself as a leader in sustainability for cities worldwide. By fostering collaboration and prioritizing convenient, accessible, and sustainable practices, cities can reduce waste and be better prepared for future challenges, including global pandemics that may affect consumption habits. Shifting to a sustainable coffee culture is not just a matter of cutting waste—it is an opportunity to rethink consumption for the benefit of the environment, public health, and the economy.
Daniela Palma is an environmentalist, advisor, and educator. She holds a Master’s degree in Environmental Studies from York University’s Faculty of Environmental and Urban Change, supervised by Dr. Calvin Lakhan (Circular Innovation Hub & Waste Wiki). Daniela’s research encompasses environmental risk assessment, waste management, environmental policy, environmental resource management, urban environmental design, business strategy, and environmental education, with a focus on balancing sustainability with practical, actionable solutions. A recipient of several prestigious awards, including the TRCA B. Harper Bull Scholarship and The Pat Placzek Award in Indigenous Urban Studies, Daniela has a strong track record of contributing to sustainability initiatives. In her current role as a Senior Sustainability Specialist of Government and Strategic Partnerships, she plays a key role in advocating for environmental and social responsibility, driving sustainability initiatives, and fostering partnerships that promote positive change.