You'd think most discussions with a topic title that included the name of Italy would have something to do with espresso, especially here. But I'm referring to Italy's ban on plastic bags last week, joining a handful of cities and countries across the globe in ridding the earth of a pointless, excessive, and toxic item.

Although most owners of coffee shops would have no use for the plastic bag I'd like to point out they may carry an equally useless and frivolous item: the 4 oz paper to go cup. Other than starting the trend of perhaps never carrying the oxymoronic travel accessory, I also want to promote a valid argument as to why someone would carry this at all.

If you're a lucky coffee shop owner who has a dishwasher and can serve your delicious drinks with a choice to stay in house then there is no valid reason to carry such a thing. If you don't have a dishwasher, then a sink perhaps? I'm sure you could find a way to wash tiny cups in any size container with some hot soapy water and sanitizer.

Now, if you're limited to a cart on a busy street corner, then I suppose this would be your best option for serving your little beverages, though I'm impressed you put an espresso machine on a moveable food cart (not unheard of).

In any case, I want everyone to take a minute and think deeply on the subject. Is there anyone on this earth, even in the grand ole You Ess of Ay, who doesn't have time to sit for 45 seconds and throw between 1 and 4 ounces of liquid down their gullet? Does anyone really need to take that espresso to go? In all likelihood they'll have that finished before their hand reaches the handle of their car door. Like many plastic bags, these cups may get about 30 seconds of use before they are thrown away. Is there any room for this kind of waste in a world where resources are limited?

I understand customers may be insistent, but there are few people out there who can't be reasoned into admitting that they're shot of espresso is going to taste much better out of ceramic than paper. Perhaps you agree. Perhaps you don't. In any case, I hope this starts a good discussion.