The concept behind the Betacup Project was simple—issue an open challenge to come up with a solution to the billions of non-recyclable coffee cups that are disposed of every year. Starbucks, perhaps one of the most obvious transgressors, was the most notable sponsor of the contest.
During the contest we were able to view the progress of the Betacup challenge and get a glimpse at some of the more promising solutions, most of which were alternative cups. In the end, after over 400 submissions, the winner of the $10,000 grand prize was… A chalkboard. Huh?