Why an Ice Cream Cone is an Easy Environmental Win

by

As a total movie buff, I always feel like summer really begins when the first blockbuster hits theaters, but it also brings up a different kind of debate – one that’s surprisingly important! I’m talking about ice cream, of course, and whether you prefer it in a cup or a cone. Honestly, I’ve always thought a cone tasted better, and it turns out, it might actually be the better choice for the environment too!

What is the environmental impact of a cup of ice cream?

Plastic is everywhere in modern life, and it’s hard to escape. A recent study in the journal One Earth found that plastic packaging – things like food wrappers and disposable cups – is the most common type of trash found on beaches around the globe. We currently produce over 300 million tons of plastic each year, and about half of that is only used once before being thrown away.

While a paper cup might seem harmless, it’s more damaging than you might think. 

As a movie lover who grabs a drink at the cinema often, I recently learned something pretty unsettling. Erica Cirino, who works with the Plastic Pollution Coalition and wrote a book about the plastic crisis, explained that those seemingly harmless paper cups aren’t as eco-friendly as you might think. She said they’re usually lined with plastic to make them waterproof – so they’re not actually recyclable with regular paper!

The coating on the paper won’t break down naturally. According to Cirino, while the paper itself will eventually decay over months or years, the plastic film will simply fragment into tiny plastic particles called microplastics.

What are other ways to avoid single-use products this summer?

You can also make a few simple changes to cut down on single-use plastic this summer.

According to Cirino, items designed for one-time use are worse for the environment than reusable ones, simply because they automatically generate trash.

I always make sure to bring my own reusable water bottle when I’m heading out, especially when it’s hot, so I don’t end up buying plastic ones. I also carry a thermos for iced coffee – it keeps it colder longer and cuts down on plastic waste. Plus, I pack my own reusable utensils so I don’t have to use plastic cutlery with takeout. It’s a small change that makes a big difference!

How can you reduce the climate impact of your ice cream cone this summer?

If you’re looking for a more eco-friendly ice cream experience, consider visiting a local shop. They often source ingredients from nearby farms, reducing transportation and refrigeration needs and lowering emissions. You could also choose a dairy-free option! Plant-based ice creams have a significantly smaller environmental impact than traditional dairy, producing less greenhouse gas and using much less water.

Next time you’re getting ice cream, why not treat yourself to a cone? As Cirino points out, it’s a perfectly good reason to enjoy a little indulgence.

Read More

2026-05-27 18:06