The British Library implements returnable cup scheme with Circular&Co

The British Library has introduced a reusable cup initiative in partnership with Circular&Co, aimed at reducing reliance on single-use beverage packaging.

The system, known as Tap&Reuse, operates at the Upper Ground Café, which is run by catering provider Graysons. Visitors can purchase drinks in reusable cups and return them to designated collection points within the venue.

The Tap&Reuse model replaces disposable cups with durable alternatives designed for repeated use. According to the companies involved, each cup can be washed and reused up to 1,000 times. At the end of its usable life, the material is recycled, often into new cups, with the aim of maintaining a closed material loop.

The scheme has reported a return rate of 97%, and it is estimated to have reduced the use of around 5,000 single-use cups and lids at the site so far.

This was a big change for both our customers and the café team. After just five weeks, we are delighted with the way it is going. The café team worked hard to make the transition pain-free; our customers are completely on board and together we are making a difference. Circular&Co. has been very supportive throughout, and, best of all, we have already removed 5,000 disposable cups from our waste stream.

Trefor Pollard, general manager of Graysons at the British Library.

Each cup is marked with a QR code that allows users to track return deadlines and locate nearby return points. Customers are given a seven-day period to return the cup. If it is not returned within this timeframe, a charge of £3 is applied, after which the cup becomes the property of the user.