Today’s Global Toaster Award goes to the ubiquitous K-Cup, which has made coffee a whole lot more convenient, but more much wasteful as well.
In fairness, Keurig has posted a statement: http://www.keurig.com/environmental_policy.asp
There is a reusable adapter, so you can use the machine without wasteful cups, a nice compromise:
http://www.coffeehabitat.com/2007/10/keurig-reusable.html
Green Mountain Cafe posted an interesting perspective:
http://www.greenmountaincafe.com/2008/10/how-should-the-next-k-cup-be/
Another interesting post:
http://www.carbondiet.ca/green_advice/food/k-cup_coffee_maker_garbage_an_environmental_issue.html
And … http://www.my-kap.com/MYK/
If you’re still reading, I’ve chosen to purchase instant coffee and just add hot water. I’m pretty sure the ratio of plastic in the jar is far less than the 180 K-Cups I would use to produce the same hot brown liquid that warms and wakes me every day.