We are setting the new norm, with reusables, together.
Artist: Cristina Rodriguez
We believe reuse is the way forward.
Single-use cups are rarely recycled. Compostable cups use more energy over their lifecycle than reusable cups (stainless steel, ceramics, or glass), and by the way, they aren’t accepted at composting facilities. Disposable coffee cups have a polyethylene layer that degrades when hot liquids are in the cups, meaning microplastics can get into your drink.
Our network has brought together a unique group of cafes through the borrowing and returning of OKAPI cups. Our consumers are committed to continuously choosing more sustainable options. We are proud to work with cafe staff as well as consumers to adopt reuse solutions.
Photo by Rebecca Altman, PhD
Meet the team
Emily (she/her), Margot (they/them), Deb (she/her)
OKAPI Reusables is women-owned and led by Emily Chueh and Deb Gray to make it easier and affordable for cafe owners to start reusable systems. We were inspired by reusable cup startups making a big impact in faraway places (700+ cafes in Australia) and by industry leaders who took the initiative to stock mason jars for cold drinks to go to cut down on plastic.
Our team is spread out across our network areas, supporting reusable growth; Christina Riley (SF Bay Area Network Lead), Margot Chirayath (PNW Program Lead), Karin Bloomquist and Kira Telgen (Seattle Community Ambassadors), and Sierra Jickling (Reno/Tahoe Community Ambassador),
Past team members included Martine Freiberger (UI/UX and branding), Stephanie Spaid (graphic design), and Gwen Bartholomay (Seattle Lead).
Why the okapi?
We’re inspired by the okapi’s beauty and longevity - it’s one of the oldest mammals on Earth, living in the dense rainforests of the Democratic Republic of the Congo in central Africa.
Borrowing this striking creature’s name as a nod to it’s resilience, OKAPI Reusables strives to ensure sustainable solutions for baristas, owners, and cafe goers.