Teaism launches reusable cup program

Now, you can get your Teaism drinks to go, without the single use cup.

The teahouse-restaurant, which has three locations in Washington, D.C., recently started selling drinks in reusable “KeepCups.” 

To participate in the program, you must first purchase a cup for $18.50. Then, you simply bring it with–dirty or clean–when you next order a drink at any Teaism location, and you’ll get your drink served in a fresh cup. KeepCup users get a 40 cent discount on their drinks. 

While disposable cups and food packaging are convenient and cost-effective for diners and restaurants, they generate massive amounts of waste. Reusable alternatives, like the new Teaism cups, can involve more coordination and effort by both the restaurant and diner, but can also help lighten everyone’s environmental footprints. In a 2018 life cycle assessment, the KeepCup company found that their products have a lower impact than compostable cups after 10 days of use, and a lower impact than paper cups after 24 days of use. 

“We appreciate you and how so many of you care about your environmental impact!” Teaism wrote on its website. “While we know that we are imperfect small-business operators, we have strived over the years to do right, model possibilities, and adapt our offerings accordingly. The success or failure of this initiative depends on YOU.”

Teaism is trialing the cup program with grant support from the DC Department of Energy and Environment and the Chesapeake Bay Trust. Data on the use of the cups might inform future DOEE programs. 

“Funds raised from the KeepCup exchange program will allow us to replace these cups over the long term and help us pay for other sustainability-related efforts such as composting at our restaurants,” Teaism writes on its website. 

Teaism, which first opened in Dupont Circle in 1996, has a history of pursuing sustainable practices and engaging with the local community. It was one of the first restaurants in the region to promote root-to-leaf and nose-to-tail cooking with a special corner of its menu dubbed, “Trash or Treasure.” Teaism was also one of the first restaurants to participate in RescueDish.

Learn more about their new cup program here.