Question 1

What if my container or cup is broken?

Accepted Answer

Scan and return it anyways! We will make sure it gets properly recycled.

Question 2

Do I have to wash my container or cup before returning it?

Accepted Answer

No! But please empty all leftover food or liquids before returning.

Question 3

Is it safe to use reusable containers?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we take sanitation seriously! Our high-temperature dishwasher is rated to kill 99.999% of bacteria and viruses.

Question 4

How long does it take to get my deposit back?

Accepted Answer

It takes 1-2 weeks after scanning and returning your container for your deposit to appear in your account. If it's been more than 3 weeks, contact us at info@friendlier.com(mailto:info@friendlier.com)

Question 5

What if I don't have a phone?

Accepted Answer

You can input the QR alphanumeric code on your container or cup and get your deposit back by logging into your account on app.friendlier.com.(https://app.friendlier.com/)

Question 6

Is reuse better than using compostable packaging?

Accepted Answer

There is a lot of miscommunication around compostable and biodegradable products however compostable packaging is single-use packaging. It is estimated that 95% of the environmental impact of packaging occurs before it is used, meaning that the end of life only accounts for less than 5% of the environmental impact. Reuse means that containers only need to be manufactured once, and the impact can be driven down with each reuse.

Additionally:

1. Compostable packaging often can not be composted in municipal composting programs, and therefore contaminates the compost stream. 
2. Compostable packaging often contains harmful chemicals like PFAs which help repel moisture. These can leach out into the food you are consuming or into the environment if they break down. 
3. Compostable products can not be recycled at the end of life and when mixed into recycling streams can ruin recycling streams.

For more resources about the environmental impact of packaging, check out https://environmentalpaper.org/solving-packaging/

Question 7

Why not just recycle?

Accepted Answer

We love recycling! But.. reuse is better!

Reuse is better than recycling for several reasons:
1. Energy conservation: Reusing a product or material requires much less energy than recycling it. Recycling requires processing and transportation to a recycling facility, which can be energy-intensive. Reusing an item does not require any additional energy beyond its initial production and transportation.
2. Reduced waste: Reusing a product or material can help reduce waste by extending its life cycle. Recycling, on the other hand, still produces waste in the form of processing by-products and often cannot achieve a 100% recovery rate.
3. Environmental impact: Reusing products or materials reduces the environmental impact of the production process because it avoids the need to extract new raw materials or energy sources. Recycling still requires the consumption of energy and raw materials, which can contribute to environmental damage.

Overall, reuse is better than recycling because it conserves energy, reduces waste, and has a lower environmental impact. However, recycling is still an important practice for reducing waste and conserving resources, and we make sure that every container gets recycled at its end of life.

Question 8

Is reuse clean?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we take sanitation seriously! Our high-temperature dishwasher is rated to kill 99.999% of bacteria and viruses. Plus our containers are BPA free!

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