Coffeewashing
The coffee industry version of greenwashing. Coffeewashing is when coffee companies deceive or mislead the public about the positive social, economic and environmental impact of their products or actions.
Regenerative Agriculture: Climate Solution or Yet More Coffeewashing?
As the climate crisis intensifies, regenerative agriculture could play a key role in sustaining and strengthening the global coffee industry. That is, if it can escape becoming just another corporate sustainability buzzword.
A Short Lexicon of Coffee Buzzwords
Coffee is filled with buzzwords that lack agreed-upon definitions: slightly woolly terms like “Sustainable,” “Ethical,” even “Specialty.” Companies use them constantly to sell more coffee—but what do these words actually mean?
‘Sustainable’ Airline Coffee Is a Contradiction in Terms
How can supposedly ethical coffee brands pitch themselves as environmentally conscious while partnering with airlines?
Corporate Philanthropy Will Not Save the Coffee Industry
Coffee companies love to fund projects that look good in press releases and impact reports. However, corporate philanthropy is mostly a shield to deflect criticism, protect power, and avoid regulation.
Clooney's Coffeewashing
Nespresso leans heavily on its sophisticated spokesperson, but George Clooney’s multi-million-dollar role does more than just sell frothy coffees.
Upcycled Coffeewashing
Putting coffee grounds into shoes and luxury watch straps isn't sustainable—it's a distraction.
"Carbon Neutral" Coffee: Climate Accountability or Marketing Spin?
The coffee industry creates emissions and carbon offsets won't save us.
A Short Introduction to Coffeewashing
How coffee companies make you think they're doing good without necessarily following through.
The Problem With Coffee Pods
Plastic pods full of cheap coffee—why are these things considered sustainable?