Starbucks talks sustainability at TAPPI

"Our packaging is an asset, but it's also a liability," Denniston told TAPPI members and attendees. "What is iconic to our company is our cup, people associate their experiences with the brand through it. But they also associate it with not being environmentally responsible."

"Packaging waste is the number one environmental issue to many consumers," he said.

At the TAPPI PLACE (May 6-9; Grand Hyatt Seattle) Conference, Denniston and Gail Tavill, vp of sustainable development for ConAgra Foods, both spoke about packaging for their brands. The topic of packaging sustainability and recycling were prevalent in both speeches.

Despite a somewhat unmatchable brand loyalty in the coffee space, Starbucks still takes heat due to the potential negative environmental impact of its disposable cups. Starbucks paper coffee cups, partially made from recycled content, are constructed with a polymer-based liner to prevent hot liquid from leaking.

Read the complete Plastics Today article here.
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