Frequently Asked Questions
What problem does the LumiCup solve?
500 billion plastic cups are sold each year. We’re helping consumers end single-use plastic.
Why did you choose aluminum?
It’s infinitely recyclable—like dad jokes. Recycling takes just 5% of the energy needed to create it—no other material is that efficient. And 76% of it gets recycled worldwide—top honors.
It’s better than plastic?
Plastic is made almost exclusively from crude oil or methane, a dangerous greenhouse gas. Plastic is only recyclable once or twice, and can only turn into something less valuable. The U.S. recycles just 5% of it.
It’s better than paper?
We love paper. But “food safe” paper products have a plastic lining on them. For a cup, the same layer of polyethylene that makes it leak-proof makes it unrecyclable.
I’ve heard plastic has a lower carbon footprint. Is that true?
I’ve heard the Great Wall of China is visible from space, but neither is true. Virgin plastic has a slightly smaller footprint than 100% virgin aluminum. But beverage container aluminum is almost always a recycled blend – we use 90% recycled content so have a smaller footprint. Plus, you always need to make new, carbon-intensive plastic vs. infinitely recyclable aluminum.
We use plant plastic—why don’t you just make that?
Compostables are the worst choice; not backyard compostable, not biodegradable—it just pretends. In 97% of the country, it goes to the landfill. Unless you have a special bin for it, yours does too.
Isn’t the real solution to have reusables rather than disposables?
Yes, it is. We’d love to live in a world without 500 billion throw away cups. Until then, there’s us.
What if it ends up in the ocean?
We hate the thought of it. But aluminum will break down without creating deadly microplastics.
Is aluminum better for keeping drinks cold?
It disperses heat along its surface rather than transferring it to the drink. Plastic warms it up.
We like aluminum-free personal care products. Why should we drink out of this?
It’s really two different things. Products you apply to your skin all day are entirely separate from something you sip a drink from. LumiCups are the same experience as soda or beer cans.
Can LumiCups be reused?
If by reused you mean refilled, then yes. And then you should drop it in the recycling bin.
