starbucks hearts the environment

Your friendly neighbourhood Starbucks - known for double-roasted coffee, not for reducing waste - says its new roasting plant in South Carolina has been awarded a “silver” LEED certificate from the U.S. Green Building Council.

Company officials vowed to “significantly” reduce the company’s environmental footprint by 2015. At the new plant, 20 percent of building materials were from recycled content and more than 75 percent of construction waste was recycled, they said, adding that a portion of the plant’s power will be supplied by wind energy.

Clearly, they are serious about making money! “In this business climate, it’s more important than ever that we make the right investments in our business, while making sure we do it in ways that support our business, the communities we work in, the environment and our people,” said Howard Schultz, chairman, president and CEO, in a statement.

Now, let's see that team spirit by way of biodegradable cups and an end to the mermaid plastic 'spill-stoppers'...