Starbucks’ Chief Executive Officer, Kevin Johnson, announced today a multi-decade commitment to be a resource-positive company, that gives more than it takes from the planet.
One way to achieve this is to encourage Starbucks consumers to order their drinks with non-dairy alternatives such as milk made from soy, coconuts, oats, and almonds.
Reportedly, 15% to 20% of Starbucks customers currently opt for non-dairy alternatives.
Coconut milk latte
As per Bloomberg, Starbucks is also testing new drinks made with plant-based ingredients and is exploring ways to make whipped cream without nitrous oxide, a greenhouse gas.
Today’s announcement also includes science-based preliminary targets for the reduction of carbon emissions, water use, and waste by 2030.
The announcement also outlines five strategies Starbucks has identified to move toward a greener future:
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Expanding plant-based options, migrating toward a more environmentally friendly menu.
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Shifting from single-use to reusable packaging.
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Investing in innovative and regenerative agricultural practices, reforestation, forest conservation, and water replenishment.
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Investing in better ways to manage waste, both in Starbucks stores, and in its communities, to ensure more recycling and elimination of food waste.
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Innovating to develop more eco-friendly stores, operations, manufacturing, and delivery.
There are three preliminary targets for 2030:
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A 50% reduction in carbon emissions in Starbucks’ direct operations and supply chain.
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50% water withdrawal for direct operations. Coffee production will be conserved or replenished with a focus on communities and basins with high water risk.
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A 50% reduction in waste sent to landfills from stores and manufacturing plants, driven by a broader shift toward a circular economy.
