Coffee pods

To minimise single-use packaging Monash Sustainability recommends coffee machines that use coffee beans, rather than individual pods. Fully serviced and maintained coffee machine services are available such as MyCup.   All costs are included in the price per cup and in most cases are cheaper than pods.  Spent coffee grounds can be placed  in food waste bins and diverted from landfill,  where available. 

Used pods cannot be placed in mixed recycling bins however some brands can be recycled through specialist recycling services.

If your department chooses pods there are a few recycling options depending on the brand and capsule type. Ask your supplier for more information.  Departments are responsible for organising the collection and any associated costs.

Nespresso recycling program

Nespresso offers a service to customers seeking to recycle used aluminium capsules at their workplace. Order the recycling satchels or bulk recycling boxes through your online account. Return the satchels via the Monash mail system or at any Australia Post branch.

The bulk recycling boxes hold 1500 pods and are collected by the Nespresso courier free of charge. Book a collection

Please note drivers will not collect boxes unless the plastic liner is sealed with the cable tie, and the box lid and bottom is secured with tape. You must be present for pick-up.

Recycling coffee pods with TerraCycle

Speciality recycler, TerraCycle, offers the following recycling programs for coffee pods.   Download the return label through your TerraCycle online account. Return your box via the Monash mail system or for departments off campus at any Australia Post branch.

Prepaid service to recycle any brand of capsule which includes return postage. The box can hold up to 600 capsules charges apply. View more information on the TerraCycle website.

TerraCycle and Lavazza have partnered to create a free recycling program for used Lavazza coffee capsules.  Go to the TerraCycle web site for more information.

TerraCycle and Nescafe have partnered to create a free recycling program for used NESCAFÉ® Dolce Gusto® capsules.  Go to the TerraCycle web site for more information.