Starbucks is set to charge some of its London customers an extra 5p for ordering coffees in paper cups.
The high street chain will trial the new scheme in the capital as it launches a bid to get more people using reusable vessels.
Its approach differs from the one taken by rivals Pret A Manger, which now offers customers a 50p discount when they opt not to use a disposable coffee cup.
Twenty-five of the chain's London shops will be involved in the new trial, which is expected to last three months after it begins in February.
Starbucks said it hopes the additional charge will encourage people to reconsider using throw-away cups.
The coffee giant’s decision was prompted by MPs calling for a 25p “latte levy” on disposable coffee cups, and a total ban unless recycling improves.
A report by the Environmental Audit Committee says the tax should be used to improve the UK's recycling and reprocessing facilities.
