Most people do not realize that Starbucks hot cups are not just paper. They are lined with plastic, which means every hot drink sits inside a plastic barrier.

Millions of people drink from these cups every day without knowing what they are made of.

As awareness grows around materials and daily exposure, customers are starting to question why plastic-lined cups are still the standard for hot drinks.

Better options exist. Fully compostable, plastic-free cups are already being developed and tested.

Starbucks has the scale and influence to lead this shift.

It is time for the cup to match the standard people expect.