As an architecture student this is a problem that I am VERY concerned about. This is a surprising article that points out incredible waste that our world produces. I'm not focusing on this article inparticular but it's a good eye opener for people who may overlook the way that we create products. "53 gallons. For every single little latte that gets drank in a to-go cup. For every single latte-sipping person in the world." For more case studies like this I highly recommend the book "cradle to cradle". The documentary "The End Of Suburbia" is also very informative. http://planetgreen.discovery.com/tv/go-for-the-green/green-brain-latte.html
Blah. Not to invalidate you or your posting a news article, but the larger issue is the unwillingness of the manufacturers to make a biodegradable cup - because the end users don't demand it. I would happily pay a nickel more if I knew the cup was going to degrade into compost within a couple years. Also, it's the fault of gutless and callous local governments, who for the most part don't require businesses to recycle. EVERY paper-based cup is recyclable - you just have to put it in the right ****ing container. So are the lids. Every single cup I get while I'm out and about? It comes home with me and goes in the recycling bin. Responsibility begins at home.
