The transition to paper cups will remove nearly 1 billion foam cups from the waste stream annually.

By Gail CiampaGatehouse Media Rhode Island

Dunkin’ Donuts coffee is about to undergo a big change. The Massachusetts-based company is saying goodbye to its signature polystyrene foam cups and introducing paper cups.

It’s another move to modernize the iconic brand. The transition to paper cups will remove nearly 1 billion foam cups from the waste stream annually.

The plans are to begin eliminating all polystyrene foam cups beginning in spring 2018, with a targeted completion date of 2020. A new, double-walled paper cup will be used instead. The current reclosable lid remains. The company said the paper cup will keep beverages hot while keeping hands cool without the need for a sleeve.

Dunkin’ announced back in 2011 that its number-one sustainability goal was to find a more environmentally friendly coffee cup.

In a press release, the company cites “its commitment to serve both people and the planet responsibly.” It follows up other sustainable initiatives for 80 percent of fiber-based consumer-facing packaging to be certified to the Sustainable Forestry Initiative Standard; the elimination of artificial dyes from its menu; the building of more energy-efficient restaurants; and partnership with the Rainforest Alliance to source certified coffee.

Gail Ciampa is the food editor for The Providence (R.I.) Journal.