Student launches reusable cup initiative at local coffee shops

Written By Peter Allan

Abby selling Girl Guide cookies at a community market showcasing local farmers, artists and clubs. Photo by: Sara Van Helvoirt

 

By Patricia Lane & Abby Van Helvoirt

Abby Van Helvoirt thinks globally and acts locally. This 13-year-old, Grade 8 student from Brentwood Bay, British Columbia, builds networks, relationships and partnerships to reduce waste. She is a recipient of a 2025 I-SEA National Youth Climate Activism Award.

Tell us about your project.

My mom and I asked two local coffee shops if they would punch cards for customers who brought their own cups. After every five punches, the card was entered to win gift cards that I persuaded other businesses, such as a local seafood shop, butcher and restaurant, to offer. I made a flyer and after two months, we had 200 cards and eight winners. The coffee shop saved money on cups. The other businesses promoted their brands. The customers felt good about reducing waste, and my mom and I had fun on a joint project.

I talked to my teacher about recycling, and she encouraged me to bring it into her classroom. All the other kids in my school throw their plastic containers into the garbage, but we throw our containers in the blue bins.

Our teacher ordered a new composting device called the “Lomi.” A video I made to introduce it was shown to my whole school and now composting is common.

This fall, with two friends, I will spend some time on Saturdays in the produce department at Thrifty Foods, offering customers a low-cost, attractive cloth bag as an alternative. The manager is very supportive. It will be fun!

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Peter Allan
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