Businesses are essential to help tackle climate change, that is why we are keen to share examples of businesses in our district who are putting the environment at the heart of their business decisions
Rob Ely, co-founder of a chain of independent local coffee houses, said: “Ultimately every decision we make here at TOAST has an element of us thinking about the environment. It is really important, but it also makes good business sense. It gives us a unique selling point as well as being the right thing to do."
One example of this is their cups. Traditional single-use cups have a lining of PE-based plastic on the inside which makes them watertight but also means they cannot be recycled. It was important to TOAST to source cups with a difference. Rob has found takeaway paper cups that are water based, plastic free and made from natural fibres. This means that the cup can hold liquid BUT it can be recycled, composted, and biodegraded.
Importantly they also sell a great selection of reusable ‘keep’ cups too and encourage customers to use them by offering a small discount for those who bring their own cup.
Rob said: “If fellow business owners are looking to become greener, I would say first raise your awareness about the climate, you don’t have to make huge changes just little changes here and there. Start by getting your staff to think about it because they will have ideas you can tap into. It makes the team feel good that they are working for a business that cares about the environment and is trying to do the right thing.”
TOAST took the decision to use ingredients which are sourced locally helping to reduce food miles and support other local businesses. The company’s used coffee grounds are turned into plant power too, teaming up with artisan cut-flower grower The Floral Harvest to give used coffee grounds a second life as food for worms and fertiliser for plants.
We are always looking for case studies. Tell us what your business is doing to protect the environment and we will share your story. Email climatechange@braintree.gov.uk