Sustainability in the Coffee Industry

I have seen a few different blogs and articles discussing sustainability and the coffee industry. In the past, we have written articles that went into detail about sustainability in the packaging industry. However, being a coffee enthusiast I thought it would be cool to take that one step further and look at how coffee companies are changing the game when it comes to sustainability in not only packaging, but sourcing and roasting, as well. A couple of brands I would like to highlight are JOCO & Balzac’s Coffee Roasters.

JOCO is best known for their reusable glass coffee cups which are great for drinking coffee around the house or on the go. JOCO can be an alternative to standard paper or foam cups available at gas stations and coffee shops. JOCO has also partnered with Jimmy Gleeson to create a brand and packaging design that is not only aesthetically pleasing, but sustainable as well. One of my favorite things about this packaging is what’s under the lid. If you flip the lid over you’ll notice the description informing consumers of the “environmentally safe and recyclable” nature of the container. Following this JOCO gives a few suggestions of how to reuse the container such as, a pencil cup, water bottle holder on a bike, a piggy bank, or place to stow your coffee, tea bags and sugar. JOCO does not stop there, they go even further by engaging with the consumer, asking them to submit their fun and clever ways to reuse the tube! (See more information about JOCO here)

As for coffee roasters, Balzac’s, Counter Culture, Amavida and Oughtred have been leading the way in 2018 when it comes to sustainability. Balzac’s Coffee Roasters showcases their dedication to sustainability through their designs and collaboration. From the large lettering drawing consumer focus to the fact that their beans are “micro-roasted in 20 pound batches” to their collaboration with Margaret Atwood. The Dieline highlights the design begin this collaboration, “stunning illustration with strong type, the new design has significant shelf presence that emotionally engages consumers.” To see how else Balzac’s Coffee Roasters is making a difference check out their website.