Disposable cups present a growing environmental issue, including the cup and lid litter reported by
Coastwatch surveyors on the shores around Ireland. The use is associated with a change of life style
in urban areas, with ‘coffee on the go’ as visible sign and a new coffee culture at the seashore and
events.
Coastwatchers therefore decided to gather some factual data in a pilot survey on cup use. A project
team was formed and volunteers5 observed 4290 passers-by and the various drinks containers they
were carrying, at entrances to Trinity College Dublin and in O’Connell street.