Why doesn't Starbucks recycle?

[Pat Coyle]

Anyone who frequents Starbucks can see that the coffee giant blows through a lot of paper and plastic products. But looking around most stores, there is no recycling bins available. According to the company's "shared planet" propaganda, one reason for the lack of recycling is that municipalities don't always offer commercial recycling programs. Is this the case in Indy? Does anyone know? Given Starbuck's brand image implies a respect for the environment, does it surprise you that Starbucks doesn't do more to offer recycling? Share your thoughts here

[Parke Ladd]

Pat,

I'll start the forum. If you need any help with the project, let me know

[Pat Coyle]

I think we should start with generic cups...so we don't lose the momentum

[Julie Vidaurrazaga]

I love the idea of using your own coffee mug. From a marketing perspective, however, I bet Sbux won't promote this since the more you use their cups and walk around the more free advertising they get. We covet what we see all around us.

[Erik Deckers]

It doesn't surprise me at all. Sure, they do SOME things that benefit the environment, but not the most important things like recycling all those cups, java jackets, or water bottles. I've known this for years, which is another reason why I don't like to frequent them. Instead I focus on the local coffee shops, especially those that are greener in their approach (i.e. give you mugs, not paper cups, for in-store dining).

[Michael R.]

No way, no how will Starbucks ever allow their customers to use their own cups. I'm sure it would be a health code violation at the very least.

[Robby Slaughter]

I use my own cup at my Starbucks several times a week.

Starbucks actually sells travel mugs and give you a discount (about 10 cents in most markets) for bringing your own cup.

[Erik Deckers]

I just tried to recycle a glass bottle that I got this morning.

"Do you guys recycle glass?" I asked the barista.

"No, we don't recycle," she said.

Muh huh. Yet one more reason why I rarely visit the jolly coffee giant.

[Joann Stager]

In all the chains in WA, where it began, Starbucks does rebag and recycle the coffee grounds. They have a special bin marked FREE for the home gardener.

[Jack Shepler]

I've seen that here in Indy too.