As one of the most popular coffee brands, Starbucks first began their company along the streets of Seattle in 1971. Their mission: With every cup, with every conversation, with every community – we nurture the limitless possibilities of human connection.
On their website, they discuss their commitments for 2030. Since we’re in 2024, let’s go over each of their areas of focus and discuss how much they’ve done!
- Expanding plant-based menu options
With a plant-based menu, Starbucks plans to reduce their carbon footprint by 50%. This option to customize drinks allows customers to enjoy plant-based choices. The first nondairy milk option was soymilk, added in 1997. Since nondairy beverages gained popularity, Starbucks added coconutmilk, almondmilk, and oatmilk. In the U.S., nondairy options include the Iced Hazelnut Oatmilk Shaken Espresso and Iced Lavender Cream Oatmilk Matcha.
- Shifting away from single-use to reusable package
Last month, Starbucks has announced that they will debut more sustainable cold cups that are made with 10-20% less plastic. The cups will keep more than 13.5 million pounds of plastic from landfills each year. New cup features include one lid size to reduce complexity and accessibility features like raised dots and embossed letters.
- Investing in regenerative agriculture, reforestation, forest conservation, and water replenishment in our supply chain
According to Starbucks’ 2023 CDP Climate Change, Water Security, and Forests Response, about 99.7% of Starbucks coffee is ethically sourced and verified through C.A.F.E Practices – a verification program measuring farms sustainable practices.
- Working on better ways to manage our waste
Starbucks FoodShare food donation program launched in 2016, partnering with hunger-relief organizations such as Feeding America. Internationally, the company is supporting innovations in food waste reduction and finding sustainable solutions.
- Innovating with more responsible stores, operations, manufacturing and delivery
Community Stores provide opportunity for farmers, youth, and women creating relevant programming. There are also Military Stories and Signing Stores that provide inclusivity and connection for partners and customers.
Overall, I think that Starbucks has made great strides in accomplishing their goals for 2030.
Cover Photo from Pexels
Bianca Genevie Abello 
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