Combining conjoint analysis and life cycle assessment to design a business model for rental reusable cups in Taiwan
Journal
Resources, Conservation and Recycling
Journal Volume
232
Start Page
108961
ISSN
09213449
Date Issued
2026-06-10
Author(s)
Abstract
Single-use beverage cups contribute significantly to plastic pollution and unsustainable resource use. While reusable cup programs have been introduced, rental-based systems face low consumer adoption. This research aims to promote the adoption of reusable cups in Taiwan by understanding consumer preferences for different attributes of rental reusable cup systems and their associated environmental impacts. Choice-based conjoint analysis shows that discount incentives and return distance strongly influence participation. Users prefer longer return periods and shorter travel distances, which may reduce system efficiency. Life cycle assessment results indicate that reusable cups still outperform single-use cups despite these trade-offs. The preferred service design includes a NT$5 discount with reward points, app-based membership, a 7-day return period, return locations within 400 meters, and return to any branch. These insights provide actionable guidance for designing user-centered, environmentally sustainable reusable cup systems and promoting circular consumption in Taiwan and similar contexts.
Subjects
Choice-based conjoint analysis (CBCA)
Circular economy
Life cycle assessment (LCA)
Reusable cup
Publisher
Elsevier B.V.
Type
journal article