Starbucks begins corporate social responsibility plans

Starbucks initiated its corporate social responsibility (CSR) plans in the mid-1990s, focusing on sustainable practices in coffee sourcing. The company partnered with Conservation International to develop the Coffee and Farmer Equity (C.A.F.E.) program, which employs a comprehensive rating system based on 249 indicators. This system evaluates various aspects of coffee production, including economic accountability, social responsibility, and environmental leadership. Farmers who achieve high scores in these categories are rewarded with higher prices for their coffee, incentivizing better practices and conditions. The C.A.F.E. program has evolved to include stringent social responsibility indicators, such as ensuring that workers are compensated fairly, workplaces are free from harassment, and child labor is prohibited. These measures reflect a commitment to ethical sourcing and improving the livelihoods of coffee farmers. As a result of these initiatives, Starbucks has significantly increased its commitment to sourcing coffee from C.A.F.E. certified providers, with approximately 90% of its coffee purchases now coming from these sources. The company aims to reach 100% ethically sourced coffee, aligning its business practices with broader sustainability goals. This shift not only enhances the quality of the coffee but also supports the communities involved in its production. By prioritizing ethical sourcing and social responsibility, Starbucks has positioned itself as a leader in corporate social responsibility within the food and beverage industry, influencing other companies to adopt similar practices.