Have you ever considered what happens to the Used Coffee Grounds (UCG) after your coffee is made? Most are thrown in the bin & end up in landfill. This is a major problem because of the amount of Methane used coffee emits when left to decompose. Methane is a powerful greenhouse gas, over 20 times more potent than carbon dioxide, and is created when organic materials break down without the presence of oxygen in landfill. UCG are also an important resource, rich in nutrients and minerals, currently being wasted in landfill.

In 2016, Planet Ark released a feasibility study into the collection and recycling of Used Coffee Grounds. The report showed that 93% are sent to landfill with only 7% being re-purposed or recycled. There are many different uses for UCG being explored around the world, from odour-busting clothing to biodiesel. It’s important to re-purpose UCG firstly, to make use of this fantastic resource and secondly, to avoid the methane produced when it’s sent to landfill. We’re excited to be involved in trialing their new program, Coffee 4 Planet Ark. The aim of the program is to collect UCG from cafes and corporate businesses, divert them from landfill, recycle them into compost and soil fertiliser & research other potential, higher-value end uses. As a founding member, this is something we are really proud to be a part of.