A new children’s book is making waves in the publishing world by using an innovative approach to sustainability. Little Coffee Cup and the Big Surprise is the debut title from author and sustainability advocate Hayley Slack. Uniquely, the book is printed on paper made from recycled coffee cups.
“As a mother of two and a professional in the waste industry, I wanted to create a meaningful story that encourages children and parents to rethink what we throw away,” Slack said. “Books can shape how kids see the world. Why not use them to show how the world could be better?”
Key highlights of this sustainable storybook include:
Innovative Publishing: The book’s paper is made from recycled coffee cups, demonstrating a creative way to reduce waste and support a circular economy in publishing.
Educational Message: Through the adventures of Little Coffee Cup, the story teaches children and their parents about waste reduction, reuse, and sustainability.
Supporting Local Recycling: Each copy uses 13 recycled coffee cups collected across the U.K. These cups are processed at James Cropper’s Burneside Mill, turning local waste into valuable products while supporting domestic recycling efforts.
Addressing Environmental Challenges: The book’s release comes amid ongoing debates in the U.K. about disposable cup waste, especially after the government canceled a planned cup takeback scheme. It highlights the need for community involvement and innovative recycling initiatives like CupCycling.
By combining storytelling with environmental action, Little Coffee Cup and the Big Surprise offers a fresh way to engage young readers and families in the fight against waste.
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