EY Cup System: a customised solution to tackle coffee cup waste in the workplace

Overview

Returnr partnered with EY to implement a cup reuse system in their Melbourne office. This includes organising stations, cup return points, signage, and cup sets available in 3 sizes to cater for a variety of beverages.

By making it simple & intuitive for staff to borrow & return reusable cups, the system is a practical way to eliminate single-use packaging waste in the workplace.

Every element of the system is tailored to EY’s space, needs and workplace size. We worked closely with the client to translate the brand into physical experience.

My key responsibilities as a Product Designer include overseeing the CAD development process and technical documentation. I collaborated with suppliers and engineers to refine the designs (eg. reducing weight and complexity of the cup return point), review prototypes and perform product QC.

The system is estimated to help prevent 7.6kg of landfill waste every month.

My contribution
  • CAD development
  • Technical documentation
  • Supplier liaison
  • Product QC
Team
  • 1 x Product Manager
  • 1 x Business Development Manager
  • 2 x Product Designers
  • 2 x Suppliers
Duration
  • 8 months
Installation at EY Melbourne office

Cup station development

Made from folded sheet metal with a matte powder coated finish, this organising station is robust, sleek and recyclable.

I worked with the client to create a strong brand presentation across the product suite, while balancing functional requirements (eg. fitting into cabinet space; holding a product mix that accommodates staff takeaway drink needs).

Cup return point development

This unit is a one-stop collection point for both cups and lids. Being a freestanding unit in public areas requires it to be stable & robust. With multiple return points installed across EY office, it’s easy for staff to return their cups from anywhere.

We designed the central pod with thicker steel & a heavy base to give it stability. Coarser powder coated finish protects it from obvious scratching, wear and tear.

The removable inner tube collects up to 18 cups. When the tube is full, cleaning staff removes it, empties out the collected cups for washing, and loads the pod with a clean tube.

Next step

We are working on further refinement, focusing on reducing weight and improving packaging.

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