Obama team seeks eco-friendly coffee cups

WASHINGTON, March 23 (UPI) -- White House officials said despite the eco-benefits of the coffee cups used by the previous administration, they are seeking an even greener alternative.

Christine Glunz, a spokeswoman for the White House Council on Environmental Quality, said President Barack Obama's administration is seeking to replace the current paper cups, which were adopted seven years ago and feature a biodegradable coating of insulation, with something even more environmentally friendly, the Chicago Tribune reported Monday.

"We're currently reviewing other cups that might offer those same benefits but have a higher percentage of biodegradability," Glunz said.

She said officials are also seeking alternatives to the plastic bottles or water supplied to White House meetings.

"We're also taking steps to minimize the use of plastic bottles," she said.