Coffee Grounds Tray _ From Waste to Wonder

What if I told you that coffee grounds, discarded bread crusts, and even "ugly" rice are being transformed into valuable new products? In South Korea, upcycling has become a powerful movement, pushing boundaries beyond mere recycling. It's an essential part of a sustainable future. Here are three remarkable upcycling projects you need to know about.

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1. Starbucks Coffee Grounds Tray: The Journey of a Cup of Coffee

Starbucks in South Korea is turning leftover coffee grounds into reusable trays. This effort reduces waste and helps minimize the production of methane, a potent greenhouse gas 34 times stronger than CO₂.

* Why Is This Important?

• Methane Reduction: By reusing coffee grounds, Starbucks prevents the release of methane, a harmful gas produced when coffee grounds decompose in landfills.
• Recycling Certification: The coffee grounds tray has received the first-ever certification for recycled materials from South Korea’s Ministry of Environment, a major step in promoting circular economy practices.

* When Did It Start?

This upcycling project began in 2020, as part of Starbucks' broader initiative to minimize waste and promote sustainability.

* How Has It Evolved?

As of June 2024, Starbucks' coffee grounds tray has become a national symbol of upcycling success, with widespread recognition. The project was officially labeled as a certified Circular Resource Product, meaning over 10% of the materials used come from recycled resources. In Starbucks' case, 20% of the trays are made from reused coffee grounds, equivalent to the grounds from 12 "tall" cups of coffee.

 

Starbucks is expanding this project, exploring additional ways to recycle coffee grounds, including creating flower pots and even bricks​.

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2. Bread Crust Beer: A Drink with a Cause

Yes, bread crust can be turned into beer! Crust Beer, launched in June 2024 by 7-Eleven, in collaboration with Samlip and Sevenbroi Brewery, is a remarkable example of how food waste can be transformed into a delicious new product.

* Why Is It Significant?

• Reducing Food Waste: Every day, thousands of bread crusts are thrown away. Crust Beer gives these otherwise wasted crusts a new purpose, lowering food waste significantly.
• Unique Taste: The beer’s flavor is unlike any traditional beer, offering a sustainable, distinct taste that appeals to consumers looking for eco-friendly beverage options.

* When Did It Start?

Crust Beer was introduced in June 2024, focusing on recycling sandwich crusts from Samlip’s production line.

* How Has It Progressed?

Initially seen as a novelty, Crust Beer quickly gained attention for its bold flavor and green credentials. More bakeries have partnered with the project, which has expanded to other upcycled bread-based products. It has also been recognized with environmental awards​.

* 2024 Sales

Crust Beer is now available nationwide in 7-Eleven stores for ₩4500 per can or ₩12,000 for four cans. The beer is particularly popular during the summer months, pairing well with spicy food and cheese​.

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3. Ugly Rice to Snacks: A Delicious Transformation

In South Korea, rice that doesn’t meet aesthetic standards usually goes to waste. But with CJ CheilJedang’s Excycle Crispy Chips, this "ugly" rice has found new life in the form of healthy snacks.

Image Source : Homeplus

Why Does It Matter?

• Support for Farmers: Farmers can now sell rice that otherwise wouldn’t make it to market, providing them with additional revenue.
• Ethical Consumption: These chips have become a favorite among consumers who are keen on ethical, sustainable products.

When Did It Launch?

Excycle Crispy Chips were first launched in April 2022 under CJ’s venture program INNO 100, and have since expanded to multiple retailers​.

 

By 2024, the snack has gained a significant following for its high protein and fiber content, all made with 30% upcycled ingredients. It is now available in convenience stores and is set for global expansion, starting in Hong Kong and the U.S.​.

Consumer Feedback

Consumers love Excycle Crispy Chips not only for their light, crispy texture, but also because they represent a meaningful step toward reducing food waste. The snack comes in flavors like Original, Hot Spicy, and Truffle, and pairs well with everything from snacks to drinks​.

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The Future of Sustainability

These are just a few examples of how South Korean companies are turning waste into wonder. By focusing on sustainable production, reduced waste, and innovative uses of discarded materials, they are helping to create a more circular economy. What can you upcycle in your daily life to contribute to a greener planet?