Q: What is Vessel Works?

A: Vessel Works is a free reusable stainless steel to-go cup service for cafes and their customers--think bike sharing or a library book but for to-go mugs. You sign up and begin using Vessels instead of paper cups. You take it with you throughout your day and eventually return it at a participating cafe or return kiosks.

Q: Why are we doing this?

A: Contrary to popular thought, paper coffee cups are not recyclable! This is because each cup contains a thin plastic lining that is too expensive to remove. So each time you purchase a beverage to go, that cup eventually finds its way to a landfill. We believe we can do better, making it easy and stylish to take sustainability into our own hands.

Q: Where can I find Vessel participating cafes and drop boxes?

A: We are launching citywide in Boulder, Colorado and Berkeley, California. See our Locations page here for Boulder and here for Berkeley! We have a list and an interactive map of our participating cafes and return kiosks.

Q: Where do I return my Vessel?

A: You can return your Vessel at any participating location or return kiosk here for Boulder and here for Berkeley! 

Q: How much does it cost?

A: Nothing! There is no charge to participate in the program, however if you lose a Vessel we will charge a small fee (this is why we take credit card information).

Q: What happens if I lose a Vessel mug?

A: We will charge a $15 fee for all lost Vessel mugs, and $2 for all lost mug tops.

Q: How long can I keep a Vessel for?

A: When you check out a Vessel you can keep it for up to 5 days before returning it to a participating location or return kiosk.

Q: Can I buy a Vessel?

A: Nope, just like a library book, it’s meant to remain in the commons.

Other questions?