Top 5 Eco-Friendly Coffee Makers for the Office
Why Choose Eco-Friendly Coffee Makers for the Office?
When you’ve worked in an office for a while, there is a constant issue that occurs when multiple coffee drinkers gather under the same roof. That is watching the office trash can fill up with single-use coffee pods faster than you can brew a second cup. As anyone who has worked in a modern office knows, there is a developing environmental awareness about coffee pod waste so this isn’t just a problem for me, but for the whole office. We’d sit there, sipping our fancy lattes while practically drowning the planet in plastic and aluminium. So, we decided to make the switch to eco-friendly coffee makers and it has made a major difference.
Here’s the deal: regular coffee machines often churn out a lot of waste, whether it’s non-recyclable pods or single-use filters. And don’t even get me started on energy consumption. An eco-friendly coffee maker is a win-win because it’s not just good for the environment but also saves you money in the long run. Plus, it’s pretty satisfying to know that your coffee habits aren’t adding to the mountains of trash out there. Think of it as a small step with a big impact—kind of like using a reusable water bottle but way tastier!
Features to Look for in an Eco-Friendly Coffee Maker
So, when I first started shopping for an eco-friendly coffee maker, I’ll admit it was overwhelming. There are so many choices out there, and the jargon can make your head spin. What helped was breaking it down into features that really mattered. For one, I made sure the machine didn’t use coffee pods. If you ever want to see how much damage those things are doing to the environment watch a couple of YouTube videos about them and how they are manufactured in a way that makes them very difficult to recycle or to compost.
Another must-have? Energy-saving features. Look for machines that shut off automatically or go into a low-power mode when idle. Not only does it save energy, but it’s also perfect for those mornings when you’re rushing and forget to turn it off. Oh, and durable materials are a big deal. Who wants to replace their coffee maker every two years? Not me. It’s better for your wallet and the planet to invest in something that lasts. Pro tip: Check if the machine is compatible with biodegradable pods if you like convenience but hate the waste.
Top 5 Eco-Friendly Coffee Makers for the Office
Here are the top picks that can transform your office coffee game while aiming for that eco-friendly angle. These are tried-and-true options that balance sustainability, performance, and style.
AeroPress
Why choose it? If you’re looking for a lightweight, portable option that doesn’t need electricity, AeroPress is a fantastic pick. It’s great for smaller offices or coffee enthusiasts who value simplicity and quick cleanup.
Current Amazon Price: $32
- Pros: Compact, portable, electricity-free, and affordable. Produces smooth, flavorful coffee with minimal waste.
- Cons: Limited to single servings and requires manual effort.
- Key Features: Uses a small paper filter, easy cleanup, lightweight design, and versatility for brewing styles.
Chemex
Why choose it? For offices that appreciate elegant design and an elevated coffee experience, the Chemex is a great fit. It brews rich, clean coffee and is perfect for those who don’t mind mastering the art of the pour-over.
Current Amazon Price: $340
- Pros: Stylish, brews rich coffee, and uses biodegradable paper filters.
- Cons: Requires precise pour-over technique and is more time-intensive.
- Key Features: Glass construction, classic design, and available in multiple sizes to suit office needs.
Breville Barista Express
Why choose it? If your office loves barista-quality coffee and doesn’t mind a minor amount of DIY coffee, the Breville Barista Express is a standout choice. It offers customization and professional-quality results.
Current Amazon Price $520
- Pros: Customizable brewing, eliminates pod waste, and offers professional-quality coffee.
- Cons: Higher upfront cost and requires regular maintenance.
- Key Features: Bean-to-cup functionality, built-in grinder, and durable stainless steel design.
Jura E8
Why choose it? The Jura E8 might be a bit pricey but this one is for high-capacity offices with diverse coffee preferences. Its automated features make it easy for everyone to enjoy their perfect brew with minimal effort, it has energy saving features and it grinds the beans for you so you don’t have any pods floating around. Just make sure you keep it descaled so the coffee tastes great and the office remains harmonious! 😛
Current Amazon Price $2400
- Pros: High-capacity brewing, energy-efficient, and incredibly user-friendly.
- Cons: Expensive and takes up more counter space.
- Key Features: Fresh bean grinding for every cup, automatic milk frother, and self-cleaning features.
Technivorm Moccamaster
Why choose it? The Technivorm Moccamaster is perfect for offices that value both quality and sustainability. It’s built to last, It looks fantastic! Brews exceptionally smooth coffee, and includes energy-saving features.
Current Amazon Price $314
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Pros: High-quality construction, energy-efficient, and produces consistently smooth coffee.
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Cons: Higher upfront cost compared to standard drip coffee makers.
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Key Features: Durable design, compatible with reusable filters, and features energy-efficient brewing technology.
Special Mentions
While the above machines are our top picks, there are a couple of honorable mentions that deserve a shoutout for their eco-friendliness and ease of use.
French Press
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Pros: Simple, timeless design, and no need for electricity or disposable filters. No filters so used grinds can go straight into compost.
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Cons: Requires coarser grind and careful cleaning to avoid residue. If you are in an office you’ll need to purchase pre-ground beans.
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Key Features: Made from durable materials like glass or stainless steel, and perfect for small batches of coffee.
Moka Pot
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Pros: Stovetop brewing with zero electricity and produces rich, espresso-like coffee. There is no filter so just like the French Press the used grinds can go straight into compost.
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Cons: Limited capacity and requires monitoring during brewing. Requires pre-ground beans and a stove to heat, not exactly an office friendly device
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Key Features: Compact, long-lasting aluminum or stainless-steel construction, and ideal for strong coffee lovers.
How to Maintain an Eco-Friendly Coffee Setup
Alright, so you’ve got your shiny new eco-friendly coffee maker. However, maintenance is key! One mistake I made early on was forgetting to descale the machine. This is a huge no-no! Minerals from the water will build up, mess with the taste of your coffee, and even shorten the machine’s lifespan. Most machines come with instructions for how to descale them, so follow them religiously.
Another tip? Get everyone in the office on board with recycling coffee pods or composting grounds. We set up a little compost bin in our break room, and it’s surprisingly easy to manage. Oh, and reusable cups—make it a thing. Trust me, you’ll feel a little jolt of pride every time you skip the disposable ones.
Additional Accessories to Enhance Sustainability
Here’s where you can really level up. Reusable coffee pods are a no-brainer if your machine uses single-serve options. They’re easy to fill, clean, and save you a ton of money in the long run. And if you’re a fan of grinding your beans fresh, invest in an energy-efficient grinder. Look for one with a burr grinder instead of blades for better consistency. The Breville Barista Express is a great choice for this.
Lastly, don’t overlook little things like a compost bin for coffee grounds or a reusable stirring spoon. It’s amazing how these small changes add up over time. Plus, they make you look super cool and eco-conscious. A win-win!
Once you’ve had the time to look over the article and down a couple of coffees, why not take a look at my article on how to create a sustainable office.
Adopting An Eco-Friendly Coffee Maker
Switching to an eco-friendly coffee maker isn’t just about saving the planet (though that’s a huge plus). It’s about creating a sustainable, feel-good coffee culture in your office. From cutting waste to brewing better coffee, the benefits are endless. So go ahead, explore your options, and make the switch. Got any cool tips or stories about your eco-friendly coffee journey? Send me a message. I’d love to hear them.
