Are Starbucks cups recyclable?

When it comes to Starbucks cold beverage cups made from polypropylene plastic, the answer is increasingly yes in many parts of the United States.

In 2026, Starbucks announced that its clear cold cups earned a “Widely Recyclable” designation from the How2Recycle program. This update reflects a significant shift in recycling access for polypropylene, also known as #5 plastic.

Here is what that actually means for consumers and facilities.

What does “Widely Recyclable” Mean

The Widely Recyclable label indicates that at least 60 percent of households in the U.S. have access to recycling programs that accept a material, either through curbside collection or drop-off facilities.

For Starbucks cold cups, this means:

Many communities now accept these cups in curbside recycling bins

Material recovery facilities can effectively sort and process polypropylene

Clear labeling helps consumers make informed disposal choices

This is important because recyclability depends not only on the material but also on whether local programs can actually collect and process it.

Why Polypropylene Matters

Polypropylene is a durable plastic commonly used in food packaging. It is lightweight, strong, and increasingly in demand in secondary markets.

As more recovery facilities invest in sorting technology capable of capturing #5 plastics, the material becomes more viable within single stream systems. Expanded acceptance improves the likelihood that these cups will be diverted from landfill when properly disposed.

However, access still varies by region. Not every municipality accepts polypropylene.

How to Recycle Starbucks Cold Cups Properly

If your local recycling program accepts #5 plastic:

Empty the cup completely

Remove straw if used

Rinse if necessary

Place it loose in your recycling bin

If your program does not accept polypropylene, placing the cup in the recycling bin can create contamination and processing challenges.

The most effective recycling behavior always aligns with local program rules.

Frequently Asked Questions

What plastic are Starbucks cold cups made from?
Starbucks cold beverage cups are made from polypropylene, also called #5 plastic.

Can I put Starbucks cold cups in my curbside recycling bin?
In many U.S. communities, yes. The Widely Recyclable designation reflects broad access but always confirm with your local recycling provider.

What does Widely Recyclable mean?
The designation from How2Recycle means at least 60 percent of households have access to recycling programs that accept the material.

The Bottom Line

Starbucks cold beverage cups made from polypropylene are now widely recyclable in much of the U.S. This represents meaningful progress in packaging design, infrastructure, and consumer education.

Recycling works when access exists and materials are disposed of correctly. By following local guidelines, consumers can help ensure these cups are recovered and diverted from landfill.