Plastic cups are out at The Mix. All 13 of the juice and smoothie bars just introduced a biodegradable alternative made from corn starch. The eco-friendly cup cost HK$50,000 to develop in a year-long series of tests in Los Angeles. The Mix managing director Phil Oakden (pictured with one of the cups)says the investment was worth it. 'It's a 100 per cent organic,' he said, holding the cup. 'If it's in the soil with organic compounds around it, six weeks and it's gone. If left in the open, six months and it's gone. It just breaks up - and there's only a 5 per cent to 15 per cent increase in cost. I think that by doing something like this, we send a clear message that if a little guy can do it, then the big guys can definitely do it. Why are they using plastic still when it is not absolutely required?'

The Mix is also aiming to replace all of its packaging with biodegradable alternatives by March and to turn its head office 'completely green'. Considering he is leaving the company soon, Oakden certainly should feel proud of his legacy.