Starbucks has announced plans to become “resource positive”, storing more carbon than it emits, eliminating waste and providing more freshwater than it uses.
The coffee chain, which operates more than 30,000 stores around the world, will shift from single-use to reusable packaging and expand its plant-based options, moving towards a more environmentally friendly menu.
Three preliminary targets have been outlined for 2030: a 50% reduction in carbon emissions in Starbucks’ direct operations and supply chain, 50% of water withdrawal for direct operations and coffee production will be conserved or replenished and a 50% reduction in waste sent to landfill from stores and manufacturing.
“As we approach the 50th anniversary of Starbucks in 2021, we are looking ahead with a heightened sense of urgency and conviction that we must challenge ourselves, think bigger and do much more in partnership with others to take care of the planet we share,” said Starbucks CEO Kevin Johnson.
Specifically, Johnson noted, the coming year will involve comprehensive market research and trials to better understand consumer behaviour and incentives to encourage more use of reusable containers.
Starbucks has also signed the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s New Plastics Economy Global Commitment, setting circular targets for its packaging.
“The New Plastics Economy Global Commitment unites businesses, governments and others behind a clear vision for a world where plastic never becomes waste or pollution, and the ambitious targets required to achieve it,” said Sander Defruyt of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation.
“Creating this circular economy for plastic will be a challenging journey, but by signing the Global Commitment, Starbucks is joining forces with more than 450 signatories to make it possible. We urge others to join them.
“By coming together, we can eliminate the plastics we don’t need and innovate, so the plastics we do need can be safely and easily circulated, keeping them in the economy and out of the environment.”
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