Tanvi Pankaj Kumar, MDes Service Design
CRUSH CUP - THE REVIVAL OF TERRACOTTA
Introduction: The UK faces a pressing issue with over 2.5 billion disposable coffee cups discarded annually, with limited recycling. These cups, made from paper and plastic, are challenging to recycle due to their waterproof coating. Their disposal contributes to landfill waste, emitting potent greenhouse gas methane. This situation offers research opportunities in areas like public perception, coffee consumption practices, and the takeaway coffee culture.
The concept: The concept revolves around introducing terracotta cups as an environmentally conscious substitute for disposable coffee cups. Drawing inspiration from India's traditional tea culture, specifically the kullads and Bhar cups, this proposal aims to establish a sustainable service paradigm for daily coffee consumers. The use of terracotta cups as an alternative to disposable coffee cups.
Inspiration from India: In stark contrast to the ubiquity of plastic-laden counterparts, these meticulously handcrafted terracotta clay cups, reminiscent of their historical prominence at India's bustling railway stations and vibrant street corners, emerge as a formidable and biodegradable contender.
Renowned for their ability to accumulate the nuanced flavours of the tea, these cups embrace a ceremonial closure to each libation, a finality encapsulated by the concluding of each beverage ceremoniously, with a customary crushing post-use, a subtle yet profound ritual.
Why in the UK? In a departure from a well-established tapestry of generational pottery craftsmanship that graces the Indian landscape, the United Kingdom finds itself at a juncture where technology assumes a pivotal role. Clay 3D printing technology emerges as a potent force, seamlessly bridging the gap between tradition and innovation. The cutting-edge production techniques empower the creation of customisable cups that adhere to the most discerning industry standards and measurements. Each cup caters adeptly to the myriad preferences of coffee consumers- be it the embrace of piping hot espresso or the cool iced latte.
Personal take and putting value to the project: I feel that this is a hidden issue that I identified. As a coffee lover, I know how convenient it is to get a takeaway coffee but I also realise it is a major source of waste. Design can help materialise hidden facts and less recognised problem areas of a system. Small progress is still progress. Though the impact is hard to put a value on, the aim of the project is very ambitious, its impact would be a ground-breaking innovation revolutionising the way of coffee completely. It might seem like 'one cup' to you, but we also must look beyond the physical value and take the responsibilities we all carry with a tinge of seriousness.
