Are Penningtons Tea and Coffee Sustainable? How to Recycle Used Tea Leaves

In today’s world, more people are asking the big question: Can my daily brew be better for the planet? At Penningtons Tea & Coffee, the answer is a resounding yes.

Known for our artisan tea and freshly  hand roasted coffee, Penningtons is proudly committed to sustainability — from ethically sourcing ingredients to reducing waste. But what about the used tea leaves after you’ve enjoyed your favourite cuppa? Can they be recycled?

Let’s dive into how Penningtons is doing its part for the environment, and how you can give your tea leaves a second life.

Sustainability at Penningtons Tea & Coffee

As a family-run business based in the Lake District, sustainability is close to our heart. Here’s how we make sure our tea and coffee are as kind to the planet as they are to your taste buds:

✅ Ethically Sourced

We carefully select teas and coffees from trusted, ethical producers. This ensures fair treatment of workers and environmentally responsible farming methods.

✅ Plastic-Free Packaging

Our loose-leaf teas and whole bean coffees come in eco-conscious, recyclable packaging, helping to cut down on single-use plastics.

✅ Small-Batch Roasting

By hand roasting and blending in small batches, we reduce energy waste and maintain the highest quality — all while keeping our carbon footprint low.

✅ Local Impact, Global Thinking

We may be based in the UK, but our values reach far beyond. Every cup of Penningtons supports a chain of sustainable, responsible choices.

How to Recycle Used Tea Leaves

Finished with your tea? Don’t toss those leaves just yet. Used tea leaves are packed with nutrients and can be reused in surprising, sustainable ways:

1. Compost Them

Tea leaves are 100% biodegradable and break down quickly in compost. They’re rich in nitrogen, which helps create fertile soil. Just remove any staples or string if you’re composting tea bags.

2. Feed Your Plants

Sprinkle damp tea leaves directly onto the soil of houseplants or garden beds. They help retain moisture, deter pests, and enrich the earth.

3. Deodorise Naturally

Dry out used leaves and pop them in the fridge, shoes, or bins to absorb odours. Green tea works especially well as a natural deodoriser.

4. DIY Beauty Boost

Used tea leaves can be added to homemade face masks or used as a gentle skin exfoliant. Antioxidants like catechins benefit your skin just as much as your body!

Bonus Tip: Reuse Your Coffee Grounds Too!

Don’t forget your coffee! Used coffee grounds also have multiple second-life uses — from fertiliser and deodoriser to a natural scour for pans. Sustainability can start with your morning routine.

Why Penningtons?

At Penningtons Tea & Coffee, we believe in flavour with a conscience. That means creating premium products that don’t compromise on taste or the environment.

Whether you’re enjoying a bold single-origin espresso or a delicate Darjeeling leaf, you can feel good knowing that every sip supports sustainable living.

Small Changes, Big Impact

Choosing Penningtons isn’t just about better tea and coffee — it’s about making better choices for the planet. And when you recycle your used tea leaves (and coffee grounds), you’re helping to close the loop.

🌱 Explore our range of eco-friendly teas and sustainable coffees today and sip sustainably.