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When you're groggy early in the morning and have a million things to get done, popping in a K-Cup is a super-convenient way to get the caffeine jolt you need. But the man who invented the coffee pods says it might not be the best idea.
"I don't have [a Keurig coffee maker]. They're kind of expensive to use," John Sylvan told The Atlantic. "It's not like drip coffee is tough to make."
Sylvan sold his share of the company in 1997 for $50,000, but he struck it rich later by purchasing stock in Green Mountain, the coffee company that ended up buying Keurig. But looking back, he told the magazine that he regrets ever coming up with the idea.
One reason is the cost: If you do the math, K-Cup coffee costs about $40 per pound. But another reason is the effect these cups have on the environment, because they're not easily recyclable or biodegradable. Technically you can recycle them, but only after breaking each one down into several different components. (Or if you're crafty, you can upcycle them. But a cup a day will add up.)
CBS Washington notes that Keurig's commercial brewers feature recyclable packs, and the Vue and K-Carafe pods are recyclable as well. But the original K-Cups, which are used by the most people, most often fill up landfills.
Last year, the company pledged to create a fully recyclable version of the K-Cup by 2020. In a press release last month, the company reaffirmed that recyclable cups are a top priority; they're focusing on creating new designs and using new materials.
Looking to go green, but can't give up your Keurig? Some outside brands sell reusable pods for filling with your own coffee — but make sure it's compatible with Keurig's 2.0 brewers before you buy.
Related:
7 Reasons Not to Throw Away K-Cups
The Best Single-Serve Coffeemakers
Our Take on the New Keurig 2.0
