The Rise & Fall of the Keep Cup

[@SustainablyVegan]

Happy EARTH MONTH!! We are starting the month off with a video essay and an overly dramatic title, The Rise & Fall of the KeepCup! Let me know in the comments anything specific you'd like to see this month. Lots to come xx

[@cass6020]

I went to a water awareness scavenger hunt hosted by my city yesterday! I always want to go to local events but rarely do, hopefully that's changing this year. This channel is really inspiring for making changes and adopting a less consumerist lifestyle, so thank you for creating these videos and being so kind and open about what people are able to do at all times, that level of tolerance is admirable

[@brits.4581]

I remember when everyone was touting the “keep cup”. I couldn’t get behind it because I always thought a glass travel mug was a horrible idea. I stuck with my double insulated mug and I’m glad it did. I would have shattered it within a week.

[@Meinvt]

Agree. I never quite understood it, but I am old. I had had metal “travel mugs” for years. The glass bothered me but also most that I saw were the smaller size and I like my 16 ounce coffees. I also have always been more likely to bring from home rather than get coffee out and bring my own mug.

[@cass6020]

For some reason, I've brokn 3 or 4 glass bottles (all ones with the silicone/rubber casing) and can't seem to learn. I didn't replace the last one I broke a year ago because I was really frustrated, but I still find them really pleasant to look at even if they're not travel friendly or good for heat/cool retention. I don't like double walled bottles much, I use a double walled mug covered in stickers for drinks all the time but it's dented, and has no ability to retain temperature either these days.

[@lilithcarter]

My preferred way of drinking is from glass or ceramic, there’s something more pleasant about the feel on the lips, and more often than not, the look of them is just nicer! Having said that, I actually didn’t purchase a single travel cup made of those materials as they are just not practical at all, so the only travel cups that I’d consider being good on the go would be double walled insulated stainless steel, they are great for hot or cold drinks. Unfortunately at least for me, is that I need to have one just for water, and one for just coffee, one for just soup, because the metallic ones tend to keep flavour even after being washed and cleaned with vinegar, lemon, bicarbonate… If any of you have a great hack to get rid off the smell of coffee or food from those type of flask I’m all ears!

[@alison9189]

Same here

[@mimasweets]

I'm terrible at taking care of my stuff but my keep cup has survived me for 6 years which only has made me fonder of it! I thought the cork would rot and the glass would explode but look at us know...

[@bethanyhartzell5336]

oh my goodness! I loved the mood of this video. The editing tips along the side, the joking about "research" and the dramatic reenactment, the transitions, the music. it's beautiful and funny and informative.

[@SustainablyVegan]

Thank you so much!!

[@jossthomaswright]

agreed! loved the new feel to this vid!

[@alongsideamy]

Haha, as an Australian I can say 'Keep Cups' are certainly still a thing here. Keep Cup is what we call all reusable cups now, a bit like the Brits call vacuum cleaners Hoovers I guess. But as the Keep Cup is Australian, I guess we are more attached to it. I also work in this space, working with the government & the hospitality sector on behaviour change programs to eliminate single-use packaging entirely, so I live and breath this stuff. In my state (WA) we've got bans on many single-use plastic products and in 2021, when the Premier announcement the ban single-use plastic coffee cups he was holding an original Keep Cup. The symbolism was important in that moment. And I believe the original Keep Cup helped paved the way for these policy changes. But yeah 100% agree that sustainability is a lot more than reusable products.

[@lisdexamphetamine]

gday from the other side of the country! when i was in yr 10+ i went to a public art school and one of our teachers was friends with THE Keep Cup lady (or at least an employee) so we all got free mini keepcups cause they were going under. dunno if that ended up happening but i wouldnt be surprised as when i was working in a cafe i saw that the smallest ones we sold were 15 dollars ! ill stick with ones from kmart or savers.

[@hannahbd9]

i love this, my biology teacher brings his little keep cup to every lecture and I love how consistent he is with it.

[@SustainablyVegan]

LOVE this ❤️

[@marycharlebois6627]

Mega-Kuddos to you, Immy, for pulling out the retro footage from your YT channel and using yourself and your Keep Cup as an example. I love the flashback to those YT days of old. You may not have single-handedly “reversed climate change” by using your Keep Cup, but look at the positive impact you have had, not only in your life, but also in the lives of others. You have spread planet-loving, sustainably-minded inspiration and empowerment around the globe to folks from all walks of life. Your content and your efforts have helped to boost the sustainability/green movement into the mainstream here and on your other social media platforms. Can I just say… feel free to be proud of yourself for this!! You are creating amazing change every day and every month… it’s as if each day was April 22 here on your channel. Thank-you for being a change-maker, I appreciate you. Ⓜary💕🌎🌲

[@jemma50]

Hear! Hear! I totally agree, Mary! ♥

[@marycharlebois6627]

@@jemma50 Hear!! Hear, Jemma!! Thanks for being here!! Here!! Ⓜary💕🌎

[@Foxcove]

I love my Keepcup and continue to use it daily. Not just for coffee and tea. They’re great for mocktails/cocktails, I’ve used mine for overnight oats before, storing small snacks for when I’m out and about, also useful if there’s a water refill station, so I don’t need to bring my reusable bottle with me. I’ve got a chip in mine, after dropping it many times on hard surfaces, but never managed to actually break it. I’m amazed when I hear that people actually manage to break theirs. Instead of having mugs or glasses at home, I just use my KeepCup for most drinks (although I do have some old jam jars that I like to use too), which saves on space. It’s by far the most versatile reusable that I have and my favourite item that I own. It’s a daily reminder to care more for the planet and sustainability 💚

[@BusyLizzy_]

I love that the glass does not retain coffee or tea odour. It really does make it more versatile! Small enough to fit under a tap for water refills too, whereas water bottles can be awkwardly tall. The only thing about it is the lack of 'seal' -- I have to carry it empty or be actually holding and drinking from it. I love your idea about using for snacks! I still use mine at home all the time, but may review my on-the-go uses now that you've inspired me! Ha ha! Happy Earth Month!

[@Foxcove]

@@BusyLizzy_ Yes, I agree, the lack of ‘odour’ is definitely more appealing. I find that the newer lids are better, as KeepCup have sealed the middle bit where the plug is inserted, so no more leaks from the lid. I got my partner a KeepCup more recently and he’s able to carry it in his bag without any leaks, which is a big improvement. My complaints about the KeepCup is that the logo and measurement on the bottom of the glass cups fades over time, so you can’t read it - not so helpful for baristas. The metal alternative that they offer is a great alternative for those not wanting the glass cups but the paint degrades quite quickly on the outside of the cup (although the measurement on the bottom in engraved, so at least that remains). I’m mostly concerned about the process behind the scenes at their head quarters. When I bought the last KeepCup for my partner, I was able to visit the HQ where they put the cups together, before packaging them for each customer. I noticed there’s a lot of plastic waste from the production of shipping the individual parts. I asked about it when I was there and they claim it is ‘recycled’ possibly reused but it did appear that the ‘recycling bin’ was just a black in bag in a bin, so you can’t guarantee that other non-recyclables wouldn’t end up in there. I think there’s a lot we don’t see behind the scenes that would give me reason to believe this company might be green-washing but I was only there for 5 mins, so maybe I am missing something there. There are definitely many uses for the KeepCup though, so I will continue to use mine and find more uses for it too hopefully. Happy Earth Month to you too! 🌍🌱

[@mollylikesthings]

Completely agree! I want to second the surprising durability too. I've had my glass keep cup since 2013 and have used it almost daily most of those years. I've also taken it on multiday hikes and while travelling, and I've dropped it on so many hard surfaces (most.recently a cobblestone sidewalk 😬) and don't even have a chip in it. I also wash it in the dishwasher sometimes and the cork ring is still perfect. I love love love the keep cup and it's definitely one of the best sustainable purchases I ever made! I feel a bit like an ad but I just want everyone to know how practical they really can be 😅

[@jo_aspen]

I won't lie, one of my favorite thrift purchases is my 2.99 Keep Cup I got at a Goodwill in 2019, and I only knew about them because I'd watched one of your videos! 😂 I use it all the time, and consistently get compliments on it!

[@SustainablyVegan]

That is awesome!

[@amphoteric]

i never had a keep cup, but i've been using my insulated travel mug for about 10 years now. it's not the prettiest but it keeps my drinks hot for 5 hrs!

[@Autumn1988]

My office canteen has phased out disposable cups. You have to bring a keep cup type cup with a lid. They have some printed loaner cups that can be used for a deposit and dropped back in the canteen 🎉

[@KAMZA.]

Wow that's awesome! Thats the change we need!

[@OftenTense]

I really, really appreciate this video. The move from aesthetic, superficial sustainability has been long overdue. The reality is that a lot of sustainable choices don't make for good 'content' - wearing the same clothes for a long time, not flying to far-flung places, and becoming more self-reliant are all utterly boring... in the best way. Essays like this make that process make a lot more sense and I really liked how you set out different phases/eras in the modern sustainability movement. Always love your videos, thanks!

[@marycharlebois6627]

As it is with individual people, social movements also experience growth and change as they endeavour to keep up with the times. I applaud this discussion which shifts the focus from purchasing trendy sustainable items to not buying stuff (unless, of course, there is a need). We all know the mantra: the most sustainable item is the one you already have. Thank-you for broaching this subject, Immy, and for shedding such intelligent light on it. We could use coffee, camping, home baking, fitness, gardening or a multitude of other examples, but with each and every one of these, it’s all about enjoying the experience itself instead of using it as a reason to purchase accessories, gear, or gadgets. Second hand, thrifting, repurposing, and conscious consuming are the way to go, whenever possible. I hope more people adopt this mindset… our planet depends on it. Thanks for this great video today, Immy, and for stirring our thoughts. I look forward to reading the comments and seeing what other planet-kind, earth-loving folks have to say. PS - It’s so nice to see you here on a Sunday morning once again… I have missed this chill routine. Ⓜary💕🌎🌲

[@jemma50]

VERY well said, Mary!! ♥ I love it when you comment, because you say everything I think, but way more eloquently than I ever could. Thank you for your intelligent contributions to all Immy's videos. Happy Sunday! ♥♥♥

[@marycharlebois6627]

@@jemma50 Hey Jemma, thanks for your always positive and very kind words. I seem to have a lot to say when I write a comment, it thrills me that you are always here reading them. It’s still wintery on this side of the country, but Earth Month brings the hope and optimism of Spring. Thanks for saying Hi, and have a great week ahead. Ⓜary🌎💕

[@jemma50]

@@marycharlebois6627 We are getting lots of rain, so I'm hopeful Spring is really here. You have a great week, too, Mary. ♥

[@klairer9427]

This was one of my favorite videos of yours - such a fun style and I love hearing your longer/reflective videos. Happy Earth month Immy!

[@marycharlebois6627]

Yes Klare… I, too, love Immy’s long-form, reflective videos! Happy Earth month to you as well. Ⓜary🌎

[@SustainablyVegan]

Yay, thank you!

[@anna_reads862]

Former Starbucks barista here to offer some insight on why people may not actually use their reusable cups: the lines on the plastic cups are how we measure certain ingredients like syrup and milk. Even before I was a barista I noticed that the baristas would make my drink in a disposable cup and then pour it into my resuable cup. At that point, the cup is still going in the trash and now I have to do dishes. So that's why I stopped. But overall, I have greatly reduced my Starbucks & Dunkin runs for coffee and use my ceramic french press nearly every day. So I agree with your last point that we've shifted from buying the most eco-friendly products to just buying less overall.

[@crowgrl13]

I didn't get a Keep Cup because I was afraid of breaking it. But I *did* get a reusable insulated cup, that I still use to this day. We, of course, stopped getting coffee during the pandemic. When things started to open, we went again, even though we couldn't use our reusable, as we wanted to support our local coffee place. I still remember the day we went in, and the barista told us, "We're allowing reusable cups again!" So yep, we use them again regularly. :)

[@mollypatterson542]

so fun to see old Immy content!! throwing back to when I first starting following you!

[@sarahhansen762]

This is a great video. I love the look back. I can honestly say that using keep cups may not be the answer, but your channel has been the answer for me. I have made many big and small changes over the years I’ve been watching you. Because you consistently support imperfect progress, it made me feel braver to try things. I could never get straight answers to questions (cloth diapers or disposable-disposable fills landfills, cloth puts pollutants into our water), I had just quit trying. Your channel made it manageable. I’m composting and growing more of my food. I also had solar installed. I’m doing what I can do. It gets easier over time because you have shifted how I think about sustainability. Thank you for the inspiration.

[@nousersnamesleft]

The best sustainable travel mug is the one you keep forever. I bought a 2 pack of metal contigo travel mugs from Target and I’ve had them for 5 years. I don’t expect them to fail anytime soon. Keep things warm for hours and are spill proof.

[@amyharriet5368]

“Most people understandably do not want to live off grid wearing only a loin cloth.” 😂 that line took me by surprise but yeah totally true

[@jamesstytle5258]

I bought my Keep Cup (small, glass) in October 2019, based on your videos. Last year, I had to replace the cork. It is the cup I use the most.

[@SustainablyVegan]

That is awesome!

[@marystestkitchen]

i love this format for you and your edits are *chefs kiss*

[@SustainablyVegan]

Ah Mary thank you so much !

[@JoshClare]

I keep mine on my office desk and use it every time I go in when walk to the coffee shop, drinking it on the walk back. Lasted me…6 years or so to date!

[@SustainablyVegan]

That’s awesome! Thanks so much for taking the time to share

[@rebekahgonzalez1103]

watching this... I look to my left and there it sits on my nightstand. my keep cup has lasted since 2019? it was an anniversary gift and I still love it. No it doesn't insulate well but I drink my beverages quickly. I also never use the lid. I don't often buy take away coffee so it mostly stays home. But it does get daily use.

[@Nasalkeihpos]

I have about five different keep cups. The first one I melted in the microwave a couple of days after I got it and I remember the company being so mean about it! It totally put me off until about 2021, when I bought new ones in various sizes and various and use them essentially every day.

[@Lil-ut4ky]

Thank you for this video, Immy. I feel you've succinctly summarized what I've been noticing lately about the sustainability/zero-waste movement. It really is all about consuming less, and you constantly remind us with your videos that it isn't about finding the most eco-friendly water bottle out there or, like you said, only producing trash that can fit into a mason jar; it's about using what we already own and not feeding into the consumerist cycle.

[@weislang]

Thank you for this video; I love this kind of content. I think everyone now owns so many water bottles and portable cups that it's just not really a novelty any more--but as someone who always uses mine, I'm always surprised by how few people don't bring their own cups--or don't use them when they do. The "order online and pick up later" approach to coffee buying means that a lot of people who might have brought a cup now aren't. And certainly reusable coffee cups aren't going to save the planet, but they are an opportunity to think about waste . . .in the Spring of 2020, we hosted a good-bye party for a colleague outdoors, and everyone brought their own plate, cup, and cutlery--and it was great. But no one does any more . . .so I think the emphasis on the reusable item shouldn't be lost, but it isn't the main thing either . . .and maybe the emphasis should be on looking in our cabinets, seeing what we have, and making use of it instead of what's chic or fancy at the moment. Anyway, loved the video! More content like this (and your food history) please! Watching you make bread is beautiful, but I just get jealous because I don't have a life where I can do that myself 😊

[@melissamidgley818]

Brilliant video Immy. Loved the editing, the editing tips, your delivery of the information!

[@robinnorth1809]

Hi, what an absolutely lovely video. Thank you. I bought an insulated "keep cup" with a screw on lid with a plastic washer in the lid, about 5 years ago. It now looks battered and most of the outside pattern has washed off over the years, it's dented and I use it every day. I no longer go to coffee shops as I make my coffee fresh in it every morning before work and the reason I love this cup so is that it has never ever leaked in my backpack. This is the biggest reason I still have it. I bought it from a coffee shop I was obsessed with all those years ago. It keeps my coffee hot until about 2pm, which is useful as I'm a nurse and don't always get time to finish drinking it before work. The other advantage is that it looks so bad no one will want to take it ;) It has saved me so much money (and time) as I no longer buy coffee every morning, Euston Station is pretty busy every morning and I feel that I'm also contributing to saving the environment by not throwing away cups every day and it is also part of my effort to consume less by purchasing less ;)

[@Anne_Ada]

Just watched today, and... 👌 ! Amazing video. So well written ! It brings matter to think about. Very very positively impacted :) Thank you for the work you are doing :) !

[@czarmorte2930]

The dramatic recreation is A+

[@rockinstrawberries]

I bought mine back in 2017 and since then I’ve used it as either a primary cup st home or a travel one, and now it’s the mug i use at work every day for tea! It’s actually one of the first internet purchases I’ve ever made, as a young adult in uni! It’s kind of sentimental that way

[@hameley12]

I think I may have heard about the keep cup, a content creator on YT talked about it before I found your channel. As with everything else, I see a trend and I run the opposite way 'cause I know it's not the right investment or the right solution for my lifestyle. I have always been the type of 'put it in the shopping bag, leave it there for a week or two, and come back if I still need it otherwise just don't buy it. Everyone has different lifestyles and some of us don't have cars [car coffee holder], and some of us drive our bicycles to work/school/meetings [cup cover] in backpack. Some people prefer cold drinks all year-round, while others prefer cold or hot drinks year-round. Do what works for your own life and needs. Thanks so much for this fun video Immy! 💚❤🌎

[@sah_son6169]

No hands down!! I love your new editing style because I'm laughing my socks off!!!

[@patrick_f567]

This was such a thought-provoking video to watch. My mindset is also evolving/maturing in recent years when I think of sustainability and I hope that will continue to be the case for me and everybody going forward. Greenwashing is a very clever tactic to misguide us from getting to the root issues here. Thanks so much for putting out such consistently great content! I really enjoy your channel.

[@sunflowercynthia9519]

I found my first keep cup in a second hand store, I still have it and use it all the time 😊 I bought my husband one (new) as a gift. He doesn't use it as often but it's great as a new mum. I want to drink my coffee on site, but if my baby starts to cry, I can finish it "to go" without needing a takeaway cup or throwing out my drink.

[@jemma50]

Well, I don't drink anything but water (and I have my reusable water bottle), but I found this video interesting, anyway. It's really about more than the title and good information, Immy. I'm just so glad you have a new video! I've missed them. Not a fan of the 'shorts', me. I like me a good full video with your usual great content. 😊Happy Sunday! ♥♥♥

[@SustainablyVegan]

Thanks so much for sticking around for the long form videos - I totally get it about the Shorts! I’m not the biggest fan either, but unfortunately it’s become ‘part of the job.’ Lots of long form content to come for this Earth month though - I’ve been preparing for a few weeks so hopefully you like them all!

[@jemma50]

@@SustainablyVegan Yay! ♥

[@marycharlebois6627]

I’m with ya all the way on this one Jemma. I watch “shorts” from many of my favourite YT creators, and I always comment, but they don’t really do it for me either. It’s a shame that this is the way our society has become… everything must be so quick, simple, direct, convenient, and not take up too much (of the viewer’s) time. Does it surprise you that I’m a die-hard fan of long form content? Have a great week ahead, my friend. Happy Earth Month to you. Ⓜary💕🌎

[@jemma50]

@@SustainablyVegan ♥♥♥

[@jemma50]

@@marycharlebois6627 Happy Earth Month, Mary! ♥

[@laurynw.5864]

Immy, this style of video is SO COOL and so thoughtful. I jumped on the KeepCup bandwagon in 2018 via a gift (that I asked for) and still use mine! It def leaks but honestly most containers I own leak so it's not a big deal. The only reason I don't use it as often is because it's smaller than the size of coffee I'm usually drinking lol so I either order to stay or I bring just like a 20 oz jar w a lid and a straw

[@h4r13qu1n]

So true about the practicality. I'm too lazy/bag is too heavy to bring a cup for everything now, so everything goes in the one insulate flask. No spills and cold tea now baby!

[@violetsparks12es]

I remember Keep Cup. I bought one a year or so before the pandemic started because my college allowed us to bring in our own cups for coffee. I really liked it except for the leaking part. I never realized just how much the pandemic and everything afterward had affected it. I really enjoyed this video and would like more like this!! ❤

[@roseelise]

loved this video! Having reusable cups may be a small act of sustainability, but I like that you pointed out that no one really bats an eye if you bring one to a café anymore - it's normal - and that genuinely makes me feel more hopeful that we can continue to make these small changes the norm, which will add up to bigger more impactful changes.

[@an_birb]

It took me until this video to realize keep cups were a brand and/or specific type of cup and not just... a travel mug. My family always had travel mugs and thermoses tossed in the back of the cabinet, so I just swiped one of those back in the day. My bigger issue was the rise of tiffins and the like - I didn't buy a steel one, but I did buy collapsible containers specifically for restaurant leftovers, rather than just using what I already had. Similar vibes, just a different trend.

[@comfort-and-joy]

For me, the keep cup will always be the iconique Olsen twin item! I was so proud to see them switch to keep cups instead of disposable cups every day.

[@KeepCup2008]

Hey @sustainablyvegan Great story. We feel it. We LOVE that every person on the thread is NOT using single-use cups, and of course, we especially love the KeepCup users. Thank you! KeepCup was created in 2007 to outperform the disposable and provide a great drinking experience, with the sole purpose of driving reuse and a more sustainable outcome. Unlike other lifestyle brands you mention, KeepCup has been a steadfast challenger to the single-use packaging industry. In the early days packaging companies lobbied that the “washing” of KeepCup meant disposable cups had a lower carbon impact. We got a peer-reviewed LCA, and created an Impact Calculator that shows for example, that our breakeven in glass is 24 uses. You are right that KeepCup has gone from being a symbol of positive behaviour change to claims of “virtue signalling” often by the very community that helped drive the change in the first place. And we won't lie, it hurts. We could not use "single-use" back in 2007 because no one knew what it meant. By 2018 it was The Guardian word of the year. Symbolism matters. Signalling matters. It drives cultural change. And cultural change delivers legislation that levels the playing field for everyone. You are right, coffee habits have changed and more people are aware we can’t purchase our way out of the problem. But take a bow, your actions and those of your audience helped get single-use bags, straws, and generally unbranded packaging these items banned. Why not single-use cups? Globally we continue to produce 380M metric tonnes of plastic annually - including 500 billion single-use cups. Big plastic = fossil fuels has spent the last three years undermining the reuse movement. Unsurprisingly, the survey you quote was sponsored by Starbucks - a company with a huge, vested interest in preserving convenience and pumping out more reusable merch a year than we have probably made in our existence. One of BP’s strategic pillars for the next decade is convenience; equating single-use with hygiene, challenging product quality, loan and wash schemes, biodegradables and compostables that are the same problem reskinned. System change is desperately needed. We totally get the individual responsibility fatigue - but whatever reusable you use, let’s keep demanding change. That’s what we at KeepCup are going to do.

[@iStacieN]

This was really interesting! I still use my keep cup 6 years on, but I definitely won't be buying a new keep cup when it eventually breaks

[@SustainablyVegan]

Thanks for sharing! I am loving reading everyone’s experiences and opinions in the comments !

[@knitterinspace]

I still use my OG plastic Keep Cup from 2018... but mostly for cold drinks, because if I pour hot drinks into it, I can def taste the plastic. Iced latte only.

[@thechroniclesofkweencoth]

I had that same problem too!! I ended up getting a small glass keep cup a couple of years ago to replace the plastic keep cup (which I passed on to a friend who didn't have a reuseable cup anyway). I still use my glass keep cup when I do treat myself to a london priced coffee, the short keep cups are the perfect size for it. 😅 and the spare ecoffee I got from my ex stays in my work locker for when I get a coffee from the downstairs cafe!

[@rebeccat1828]

I got one after I saw a coworker use hers and loved the look of it, back in 2015. I think I’ve used it every day since then. I didn’t know it was a whole thing, I mused used it because I liked it

[@bluerivercountry]

I used my Keep Cup this morning 👍🏻

[@9melissal]

This is precisely why I love my swell bottle with it's commuter lid. It's way more versatile and functional than the keep cup was. It's leakproof and keeps hot drinks hot for many hours and keeps cold drinks cold for the whole day even in very high heat,. I've even left it in a hot car in the sun for many hours only to come back to a drink with whole ice cubes still in it. Not to mention I'm clumsy and have dropped it in my driveway and it didn't even dent, just scuffed the paint a tiny bit.

[@rebeccakreusel8687]

I really appreciated it the concept of this video and all the things you had to say. It made me think about not getting rid of the stuff. I already have to replace it with "more sustainable objects". Something that I'd love to hear your thoughts about is sustainability when basic needs are not being met. In particular, I'm thinking about parenthood. As a parent I am often missing meals, sleep deprived, and/or dealing with sick screaming children. I've heard you mentioned before that often sustainability goes out the window when you're not feeling well or feeling sick. I feel like that effect is amplified when you are scared or worried for little ones who are not feeling sick or whose needs seem emergent like they must be addressed instantly. For instance, if they're overwrought, late for bedtime, and need food now, you often find yourself stopping for takeout. It's one thing to cause yourself some discomfort in order to go with a more sustainable option. I feel like sustainability got infinitely harder when I had kids. Not only because when they are particularly young, their needs often need to be met immediately. Fed every 2 hours. Change the diaper before diaper rash that's in. Make sure they get enough to eat when they are awake enough to drink it and their tummy is settled enough to hold it down while sick. But then there are things such as diapers, wipes, car seats. The list goes on and on. Ensure you tell yourself you'll take the time to find these items used or do cloth diapering or what not. But then you find yourself exhausted sleep deprived and needing to address basic needs cleaning your home, having clean laundry exc. Often, I feel that sustainability involves a huge luxury of time. Even if you don't have kids, say you work two jobs and most of your downtime goes to bathing, eating, sleeping and repeating. These are some things that I think about when I see your videos and would love to hear your thoughts. But to be clear I find your videos so inspiring and therapeutic in a way. I love watching you calmly and methodically go through the motions of making a dish you enjoy or making a space, your home or even caring for your body. Thank you so much for the time and energy you put into the content you create, it is an absolute delight to me!!!!!💛💛💛💛💛💛

[@rebeccakreusel8687]

P.S. sorry all for the errors. This was speech to text while I was holding my son who was crying #naptime

[@CorrineVictoria]

I love how you put this video together

[@dalekmad96]

Immy, this video is incredible! I love the style and the chat GPT Q&As over the B-roll, as if they're production easter eggs 🤩 I'm still using my KeepCups now that we can again, but wish family and friends would stop gifting random reuseable mugs 🙃

[@dididaah]

LOVED this video! Super funny and engaging, but I learned so much too. It's great that the conversation has shifted from individual's waste and 'carbon footprint' to the bigger picture and corporate responsibility more.

[@SustainablyVegan]

SO glad you enjoyed it! Really appreciate your feedback and hearing your thoughts!

[@louisjackson2798]

because I started my sustainability journey when I was still living with my parents, I didn't even bother asking for a keep cup. I'm an extremely clumsy person, so it would be a miracle if it didn't break in the first 30 seconds of me having it. Also, my main pitch for getting a reusable mug was so I could make coffee at home, and it would stay warm throughout the day so I wouldn't be tempted to go buy more coffee later on. Come to think of it, economics was one of the main ways I convinced my parents to make a lot of lower waste swaps. For example, we used to buy boxes of single-use ziploc bags for lunches and stuff, so I sat down and calculated that 4 stasher bags would cost the same as a year's supply of single use bags for us.

[@briannaaslanian2484]

I was always tempt e by the keep cup because it looked nice and I wanted to, like you, show off to the world that I was trying to save the world. But I already have a few travel mugs that I use for my take away coffee. It keeps my coffee warm for a long time and it won't break like glass 😅

[@blisles7626]

I got my glass long play one as a freebie for some competition or something in uni? Don’t recall. Managed it for 2 years before it broke. I have a plastic one at the back of the cupboard but now have 2 metal klean kaneteens I rotate between for tea and coffee as they hold flavour a bit and I’m likely to drop them. Work really well for keeping my drink hot on my desk as well for long shifts

[@xnastasi]

New video format is so cool and engaging!

[@anyawilding]

Love this style of video so much, as someone who has followed you since even prior the keep cup days, it has really been a joy to watch your content mature too. I love how informative and well researched these videos are! I too had a keep cup, and to this day still have it (after one glass replacement from eBay) I still love it for the summer, but find myself reaching for a jam jar to take my smoothie in more often 😂 (horrah for sealable lids). My Kinto flask has been my true love for nearly two years now though, and I have to say it is definitely an essential as someone who swims in the sea almost daily through winter. Nonetheless, love opening up this discussion for re evaluation of 'sustainable history'!

[@pollystye3270]

"He was actually in charge... So was he" made me snort

[@ana-morgana]

I don't really use my keepcup much anymore because I stopped commuting but I have kept it and have found it's the perfect size to keep a cupcake in if I'm going out with a packed lunch for the day XD

[@staceyhabergham1709]

I love this vid - so good to see your personality and humour come out even more!

[@martahrabcova2401]

Exactly, I used to have a Keepcup, sooo cute, but the leaking was so annoying… now I use an insulated leakproof one filled with coffee made at home and it feels like the best option for me! ❤

[@saharansnowman95]

I had no idea what I keep cup was before this video, and now I feel silly. I have a 30 oz Yeti Rambler that I have had since 2018. I also have a 40 oz Iron Flask that I got in 2020. I only use them for water cause I live in Texas

[@doloressanchez3891]

But, are any durable and insulated flask or plastic cup a “keep cup”? I’ve been using mine (I got more than one as gifts) since 2017. Ok, so after seeing the video ‘til the end. , I loved how you turned it around. Totally agree, reduce is part of the solution. Congratulations.

[@rachaelpinker3413]

Very well said & beautiful video. Hoping to see much more video essays from you like this - though I enjoy every video!

[@SustainablyVegan]

Thank you! Will do!

[@cathfisher7]

I've had the same Keep Cup for 15 years. It was a corporate gift from my employer. I have several in the household now for each family member. I use it every day and it's been going strong.

[@mrsbrittanylouu7518]

I’m dying at this video! You’re hilarious and I love this! I just looked at a keep cup on Amazon 😂

[@karenborden6032]

When I first saw your Keep cup I was all about it. I never bought one but it was always in the back of my mind. Then one day whilst pouring myself a cup I grabbed my fave vessel for drinking water- a mason jar. I got to thinking about how to use this ordinary jar as my new Keep cup. I cut up an old bandana into strips and sewed a collar for my mason jar. I have been happily using my version of the Keep cup now for over a year and luv it. The lid is virtually leak proof and does well in my back pack.

[@florielambrey1218]

Amazing video, Immy! I still have my keepcup, but honestly I use my second hand knock-off thermos more bc it is leak proof. Just as you said! I must admit though that I bought my keepcup back in the day after seeing one of your videos haha and now I completely agree with your point of view. It is hard to fight against internalised consumerism.

[@hollandvandekrol8355]

I saw keep cups for the first time while vacationing in Australia. However, they were all plastic cups, so no concern about breakage. That was my souvenir for the trip (with a printed Great Ocean Road pic) and I still use it frequently.

[@KellyS_77]

I think this a problem more with social media than with minimalism or environmentalism through the lens of “sustainability”. I will once again recommend “Confessions of a recovering Environmentalist” by Paul Kingsnorth. He touches on the sustainability movement and how it is actually in contradiction to true environmentalism.

[@alexandratracey8252]

I love this video! You’re dramatic human is perfection! 😂❤😊

[@emmam3255]

The editing in this video is TOO GOOD. Nicely done👏

[@PrincessSakuno]

Thank you for opening this discourse, I did need to hear someone’s holistic take on this

[@oddzendz4933]

Thoughtful and well-researched/edited video, Immy! Your content always delivers : ) I've never owned a KeepCup, but I've gone through many, many reusable cups through the years in an attempt to - rather selfishly, I admit - save on having to run to my condo building's recycle bin so often through the week XD; It sounds terrible when I read it, but we had just had a baby and I was making multiple trips to our condo's trash bins per day, up and down a huge flight of stairs, and I just got lazy. And hey, the plus side is I got to see an actual reduction in the number of things to recycle the more I used my disposable cup! After years of trying this and that, I've settled for a Yeti for the time being and I have to say, Swell bottles are 100% leakproof so I love them for travel. (I just don't love them for coffee and tea and I usually use them for water.)

[@mckenzierasmussen]

I’ve been using the same reusable coffee cup for 8 years! It’s metal and dented and looks terrible but it doesn’t leak and keeps my drink hot :) I find that the best move for me is to not buy coffee out because I am guilty of forgetting my cup

[@paigeaustin]

You did such a great job with this video! Love it. 👏🏽

[@orangeandcalico]

I broke my keepcup not too long ago and I decided not to buy another one. Instead, I got a travel mug from a second-hand store, and I love it the same as my keepcup. I have been using it every single day.

[@rachaelharrison1257]

I lost mine and I was going to replace it then I realised it is a miracle it lasted so long, being glass; it isn't dishwasherable (cork band); it wasn't leakproof and most importantly...I had other take away cups where I had literally bought in to other popular reusables. Now my most used reusable is the stojo cup - folds up nice and small so I throw it in my bag on the off chance.

[@HannahWagner-w9h]

I got my keepcup back in 2018 when I started uni, as it was the only container, that we were allowed to use for drinks that weren’t water. I was never the coffee shop person, but I love sipping my hot chocolate or tea whilst studying. So the keepcup remained my loyal companion to the library until I graduated. I haven’t touched it since.

[@thechroniclesofkweencoth]

I still think the most sustainable consumer behaviour is using what you already have (and finding other ways to fit a new need based on what you already have), consuming less and only buying things as 'replacement investment'. I think the keepcup trend could be akin to the stasher bags, trendy insulated flasks (which, let's be honest, you can find secondhand or even vintage ones that are just as good), cloth 'paper towels' and the other trendy zero waste items. I want to see more brands and companies being transparent on how to properly dispose of their product / product materials, offering more accessibility to disabled communities (products use wise) and having a circular waste system implemented into their product design. Btw loving the editing notes. (I know these editing tricks tbf but still fun to see them!) 🤣

[@21earlthepearl]

I still have my original Keep Cup from years ago and use it every time I bring coffee with me.

[@sashawilkinson6978]

I’ve still got mine and still use it ❤ loved this video though, your editing skills are top notch 😊

[@sanne8210]

wow, i loved this! i never watch these type of videos but i enjoyed watching yours. thank you!

[@colourlessbluethings]

Roughly 5 years after buying it, I still have my cork band (small) Keep Cup, use it regularly and love it. It looks great and it's actually nice to drink from. I'll sometimes even make coffee in an insulated flask to take to work or wherever and, when it's time to drink it, pour it into my keep cup.

[@Courtney6]

I loved my keep cup. My husband smashed it though. He’s broken so many water bottles as well. It’s actually quite bizarre. Lol. Now I use a stainless steel travel mug he can’t break (and an indestructible nalgene). I use my travel mug every morning at home for coffee and for tea all day because I like my drink to stay hot. They cool off too fast in mugs.

[@terrimossgrove4820]

Still enjoy using my 3 Keep Cups. Mostly fill the glass ones at home and enjoy as I work from home because it is less likely to spill on my desk or take with me in my car. The plastic one I got on clearance at a TJMAXX store is mid sized, and I travel with it. Got it filled at a coffee shop in Portland during a conference. Thanks for the thoughtful video.

[@BusyLizzy_]

I was never really on board with Keep Cup due to the cost, (and I had another coffee cup already, that I liked) but could not resist the urge to purchase one when I found it for $0.50 in a Thrift shop. (SCORE!!!) It is not (as you, and others mentioned) particularly useful as a travel mug but it's a great bedside table water cup. For me, it's the perfect size, I can grip easily in the dark, and has a drinking spout cover (I am a bit odd about having dust or a bug crawl in my water overnight, so this appeals to me -- ha ha). If it tips, the lid contains MOST of the spill, so much better than an ordinary glass. So, in the spirit of 'use what you have' (which has always been a technique of mine since the start of 'zero waste' in my life) I am repurposing the cup daily. I also sometimes use it if I'm going to an event where there is wine or beverages that I suspect will be served in plastic cups -- the Keep Cup is a bit more classy than using my coffee cup or water bottle for an adult beverage! :) Shine on.. I love seeing your evolving content!

[@leahaf808]

I never bought one, purely because I can't be trusted with anything glass😅. I always think fondly of the 2015/16 zero waste trend, because it got so many of us engaged and interested in deeper sustainability issues. Here we are 7-8 years later, still trying our best to help save the planet, even though we've clocked that it takes more than canvas bags and reusable coffee cups.

[@Giggleypuff1]

Funny enough, my city brought in a tax on disposable cups while not all places were even allowing reusable cups.

[@Huggible11]

Funny enough I was recently looking into possibly getting a Keep Cup after my old coffee cup wasn't usable anymore. I had a specific size (12oz) in mind and was researching between Yeti, Hydro Flask, Keep Cup and Kleen Kanteen. Keep Cup seemed great, but since I live in Canada I couldn't get replacement parts if needed and the price to ship ($60) was ridiculous. I ended up buying a Klean Kanteen coffee mug for a few reasons, but mainly because I had access to replaceable parts/interchangeable lids AND it would fit in my car cupholder. No more coffee spills in the car!

[@badger9156]

Had my first keepcup back in 2011/2012, maybe earlier. They were plastic in those days. Had it for a while but got stolen from the office. Got another one, smaller size, stolen again from my next workplace. Our workplace bought loads for staff, eventually all went missing. Is there a black market for them? I’m now on my 3rd glass version. Used it all through the pandemic (things were pretty relaxed and open here in New a Zealand). My latest one I’ve had since 2018, and I buy coffees most days, including the last 2.5 years caravanning around NZ. . Never thought it was cool or thought to post about it (who did that 10 years ago?) Just super practical and less waste 🎉. Also, love drinking from glass (but never bought the cork version, icky for cleaning), and never use the lid for drinking. I imagine I’ve saved 10 years of almost daily disposable cups, plus my husband has one too. So guess I’m in the 17%

[@Ray-pt5bi]

Never Had a keep Cup, I used a regular thermos bottle, a Mason jar for tea or things I drink quickly (chocolate milk, smoothie, herbal tea) and a Starbucks insulated tumbler with a straw for work. Still use those three After 10 years. Don't go much into coffee shops to get takeaway bevs as I don't live in a city anymore.

[@ItsAllLifesJourney]

I never bought a keep cup. I never understood it at the time. I just used my regular thermos and gave that to the baristas.

[@persephone213]

I love my insulated stainless steel 50/50 reusable coffee cups-they haven’t broken so far and I’ve taken them all over the place, plus they keep my drinks warm. My favorite water bottle, though, has to be my Klean Kanteen!

[@user-ge2es2bp2x]

Interesting video! i never used one because i thought it would take up too much space in my bag and was worried it would smash - though i did use a collapsable silicone one which I loved but lost. I need to get another one sometime because i've found that now even if you get a drink to have in, most places still give you a single use cup over a mug.

[@WhisperedEternity]

I still have mine but mostly use it at home and very local. I so rarely drink coffee out post pandemic, and when I do I usually sit in. I drink a lot more when working in London because everything is so much further away from each other and I need time to rest, but I use other options like my cupple (it’s a water bottle with a reusable cup in) or Stojo because I need something compact.

[@justinebanszky]

I've had mine since 2016 (two of them, big and small) and I still use them most days.

[@dokehannah]

I have a stainless steel portable coffee cup that I've had for about a decade. It keeps my coffee warm for 4 hours. The paint on the outside is chipping, but it still works really well. Unfortunately, I fell out of the habit of bringing it because they didn't fill reusable mugs during covid. I've got to get back on track now. No excuses.

[@simini1837]

I bought two KeepCups after you mentioned them in your videos. Really liked how they look and the idea of a sustainable coffee mug. Unfortunately they are not functional in my opinion, the lids are really hard to get of the mug and every time I spill coffee. It wasn't a good purchase so I am very curious about this video and can't wait to watch it!

[@bridgettbirminingham]

I have mine and still love it. I have the glass one but I mostly use it at home and in my office.

[@bec9696]

My original KeepCup, a plastic version, is 9 years old and still going. It would have had over 6500 coffees go through it. I did buy a glass one in a moment of stupidity as I'm clumsy, and of course, that broke pretty quickly. Yeah, it dribbles sometimes, but i think the disposable ones do too... During Covid, in Melbourne, I found a lot of cafes worked in a system of filling the cup without touching it, you put it down, they fill and you put the lid on yourself - and it's now a habit I have unconsciously kept.