The University of Manchester
Bee Cup Reusable Scheme
Finalist, Campus Health, Food and Drink
About
The Bee Cup is a reusable cup scheme, which is completely free to use unless the cup is not returned within 14 days. The scheme was developed in order to address the 300,oo disposable cups used every day in Manchester. As a University we serve over half a million hot drinks a year so it was a huge area to address. The scheme was developed in a holistic manner incorporating partners on the Oxford Road corridor to create a rounded experience for users. To date the scheme has over 9,000 active users and more than 105,000 checkouts, removing the same number of disposables from the waste stream saving over 9,500kg of CO2. A second stage of The Bee Cup was then created, The Bee Bowl which has had over 1000 uses since launch 6 months ago.
Top 3 learnings
1. The paper cup charge has a significant impact on take up.
2. The system must be really holistic and easily accessible so working with partners in a city is key.
3. No upfront costs is more attractive than a deposit payment.
What would it mean to win
It would be an honour to be recognised at this level for the consistent work we put into operating our campus in the most sustainable way. Sustainability sits at the heart of all we do and we feel this scheme is world leading.
SDGs
11. Sustainable cities and communities
| 2026 | |
| Campus Health, Food and Drink | |
| Finalist, UK and Ireland |
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