Starbucks has faced criticism for its negative environmental impact, particularly in regards to its contributions to plastic waste and water usage.
One major issue is the widespread use of single-use plastic cups and lids at Starbucks locations around the world. While the company has made some efforts to switch to more environmentally friendly options, such as introducing reusable tumblers and offering discounts to customers who bring their own cups, it is estimated that the majority of Starbucks drinks are still served in disposable cups. These cups are difficult to recycle due to the plastic lining, and as a result, a significant amount of them end up in landfills where they can take hundreds of years to break down.
In addition to contributing to plastic waste, Starbucks has also been criticized for its water usage. The company operates in locations around the globe, and some of these areas, such as California and Arizona, have experienced water shortages due to drought. Starbucks has faced criticism for its high water usage in these regions, particularly in the production of its bottled water brand, Ethos.
There are also concerns about the environmental impact of Starbucks' supply chain, as the company sources a significant amount of its coffee beans, tea, and other ingredients from overseas. The transportation of these products generates greenhouse gas emissions, which contribute to climate change.
Despite these negative impacts, Starbucks has made efforts to address these issues and reduce its environmental footprint. The company has set goals to increase its use of renewable energy and to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions. It has also implemented a number of initiatives to reduce waste, including recycling programs and the development of more sustainable packaging.
In conclusion, Starbucks has faced criticism for its negative environmental impact, particularly in regards to plastic waste and water usage. While the company has made efforts to address these issues and reduce its environmental footprint, there is still room for improvement in order to fully address the negative impact it has on the environment.