Compared with instant coffee, filter coffee has the worst environmental impact, cup for cup, often having leftovers that get thrown away. Recent studies show pod brewing machines are often more efficient in water, bean, and electricity consumption. No matter the material type, all disposable coffee pods create waste and environmental impact. Tens of billions of non-reusable, non-recyclable plastic pods have been made and trashed, and the number continues to grow. These single-use pods end up in landfills, incinerators, and our ocean. The pre-ground coffee inside is questionable in quality and often comes out weak.  

     Luckily there is a waste-free option in reusable coffee pods made of stainless steel. Stainless steel reusable pods start at ~$7 and give you the opportunity to use your favorite Hawaiian grown coffee, to switch between roast flavors, and to control the strength in each cup. Switching to stainless steel reusable pods you’ll enjoy saving water, electricity, and money, all while lowering environmental impacts with each cup of magic bean water (aka coffee).  

     This tip was facilitated by April Bullis, Oahu Service Manager at Pono Home and Eco Rotary Club of Kakaako Foundation Chair. www.ecorotary.org