Impacts of the eco-mug program at the University of Waterloo
The eco-mug program at the University of Waterloo has a long history, beginning in 2004 with the Lug-a-Mug campaign. This initiative offers a discount on hot beverages for customers who bring a clean, reusable mug to any UW Food Services location (20 cents at all Food Services-owned locations and 10 cents at franchise locations). The eco-mug program aims to reduce waste from single-use coffee cups while encouraging more sustainable habits on campus.
In 2024, Food Services partnered with the Sustainability Action Fund (SAF) to further promote the eco-mug program. From September 23 to 27, customers received free Fairtrade coffee or tea at all UW Food Services–operated cafés and eateries (non-franchise locations) when they used an eco-mug. The initiative was designed to decrease waste production by reducing the use of disposable cups, sleeves, and lids, while also raising awareness of Fairtrade options on campus.
Over the course of the week, Food Services locations gave out 1,628 cups of free coffee across residences and campus eateries. Data showed that more than 50% of regular customers at UW cafés and eateries used an eco-mug during the campaign, though adoption was lower at residence locations.
To measure longer-term impact, eco-mug use was tracked again from October 21 to 25, one month after the campaign ended. During that week, 187 eco-mugs were used across all non-franchise locations, demonstrating that participation continued beyond the promotional period.
The eco-mug program has remained impactful over the past year and a half. Since the start of the Fall 2025 term, 3,341 eco-mug refills have been recorded across Food Services locations, a number that would be even higher if franchise and student-run cafés were included. The highest number of eco-mug refills has been at Browser’s Café in the Dana Porter Library, followed closely by Liquid Assets Café in Hagey Hall. These 3,341 disposable coffee cups have been diverted from landfill thanks to individuals across campus choosing to bring a reusable mug.
While there is still room to grow the program’s reach, its impact is already meaningful and continues to build. With steady participation and increasing awareness, the eco-mug program is helping to normalize waste-conscious habits and create lasting sustainable behaviours. As more students and staff get involved, the potential for impact will only increase. Bringing an eco-mug is a simple, everyday action that not only reduces waste but also saves money, making it an easy win for both the environment and the campus community.
If you want to learn more about the eco-mug program, visit the Food Services website.
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