Reusable pods do exist, and they're not even an inconvenience to use: you just pour some grounds in and stick it in the machine. It's unfortunate that no one seems to bother with them (and that this article doesn't mention them as an alternative.)
Most of them are still plastic and the coffee grounds end up in a landfill or worse, down the drain, way too often.
I specifically bought into the Nespresso ecosystem after swearing off k cups based on some of the same research. I don't really have access to composting so this is the best solution available to me.
Nespresso gives you either a return to store or a pre labeled UPS return bag each time you buy pods. I now own two machines and take one with me on longer road trips.
Nespresso is also trialing a coffee pod made from coffee that is completely compostable. I wish more products were designed this well and I wish plastic K cups would get the ban they deserve.
This article from 2017 points out that 10 companies control nearly everything food related we buy. https://www.good.is/Business/food-brands-owners-rp
Nespresso, despite Nestle's ownership is sourcing 95% of it's coffee from certified sustainable sources.
Here's a statement on how Nespresso is transitioning to Fairtrade. https://www.fairtradeamerica.org/why-fairtrade/global-impact/impact-stories/nespresso-how-to-build-resilient-farming-communities/
So yes, I know that Nespresso is owned by and benefits Nestle. But I also know that Nespresso has high ethical standards that are demonstrated in their commitment to sustainability from farm to recycling.
