About bio bean
Bio-bean pioneered the transformation of waste coffee grounds into sustainable fuel, building the world's first coffee recycling factory in Cambridgeshire in 2013. Founded by Arthur Kay, the company became a certified B-Corporation and the world's largest recycler of coffee grounds, diverting tonnes of waste from landfill while creating an innovative heating solution for British homes. Coffee Logs represented an ingenious circular economy solution, made from grounds collected from cafes, offices, instant coffee factories, airports, and train stations across the UK. Each log contains approximately 25 cups worth of recycled coffee, compressed into briquettes that burn 20% hotter than kiln-dried wood and produce a pleasant, subtle coffee aroma. The environmental credentials were compelling: recycling grounds into fuel reduces emissions by 80% compared to allowing them to decompose in landfill. The brand gained significant recognition, winning support from the Mayor of London, Shell, Tata, and Innovate UK. Bio-bean even collaborated with Shell and Transport for London to create biodiesel from coffee grounds to power London's buses in 2017. The products were exhibited at The Science Museum and the company became part of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation's circular economy initiative. Following challenges including a factory fire and inflation pressures, Bio-bean entered administration in March 2023, with assets acquired by Envar Composting Ltd in July 2023. While the original company's future remains uncertain, Coffee Logs demonstrated the potential of innovative waste-to-fuel technology and may continue under new ownership.
