Lendable reusable cup scheme

Lendable has replaced disposable cups in six locations across Frenchay Campus.

About the scheme

UWE Bristol has launched the Lendable reusable cup scheme across Frenchay Campus, taking a practical step to reduce single-use cup waste and advance circular economy principles.

Single-use paper cups are typically non-recyclable due to their mixed materials. By switching to a reusable cup system, UWE Bristol is moving beyond recycling towards true circularity.

The scheme is simple: borrow a purple cup for your takeaway drink, use it, and return it to a purple bin. No deposits, no sign-ups, and no apps required. 

Find out more about Lendable

Barista in X Block making a coffee using the Lendable purple cups.

Where to get a Lendable cup

Lendable cups are available at the following outlets on Frenchay Campus:

  • Atrium Cafe (X-block)
  • OneZone food services (E-block)
  • The Grill (B-block)
  • Costa Coffee (R-Block)
  • Subway (Q-Block)
  • Student Union Bar and Cafe (Level 1, Union Block).

Lendable purple bin map

How it works

Cups are collected, cleaned and returned to campus, ready to be used again.

Two students enjoying a hot drink together using Lendable purple cups.

After use, return your cup to one of the purple bins located across campus. Please empty any unfinished drinks before placing your cup in the bin, to help our cleaning and waste teams.

Find your nearest drop-off point on the map.

Lendable purple bin map
Barista making drinks with Lendable purple cups in X Block.

Cups are collected by our waste collection contractor and sent to Re-Uz for professional cleaning before being returned for reuse.

This closed-loop system can reduce carbon emissions by up to 30% compared to single-use paper cups after just two uses.

Our partners

The Lendable scheme is made possible through collaboration between UWE Bristol's Sustainability, Hospitality, Cleaning and Environment teams, the Students' Union, and the following external partners.

Ecosurety

A Bristol-based, B Corp-certified company supporting businesses with packaging legislation and sustainable waste management innovation.

SUEZ Recycling and Recovery UK

UWE Bristol's waste contractor, responsible for waste collection, recycling, and supporting the transition to a circular, low-carbon economy.

Hubbub

An environmental charity, helping to make sustainability second-nature by designing effective behaviour change campaigns and delivering the communications for Lendable at UWE Bristol.

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