Posted on: JUN 3, 2025
Posted by: STOKES COFFEE
Sustainability is more than a buzzword at Stokes Tea & Coffee – it’s a philosophy woven into everything we do and has been for decades. We have our sights set on being officially recognised as a B-Corp and, therefore, understand that collective small actions can create a significant impact.
By making a few simple changes, you, too, can contribute to a healthier planet and a brighter future for its people. Here’s some practical wisdom to inspire change in your everyday life.
1. Say Goodbye to Single-Use Cups
Every time you buy coffee on the go, consider the cup it’s served in. While Stokes' takeaway cups are recyclable, Huskee cups are even more sustainable. However, many disposable coffee cups are lined with plastic, making them difficult to recycle and destined for landfills. We’re proud to offer the Huskee Cup – the ultimate reusable coffee cup that combines innovation, sustainability, and style.
Made from coffee husk, a by-product of coffee roasting, these cups turn waste into a practical, eco-friendly solution. Here’s how it works: bring your Huskee Cup to any HuskeeSwap Café (Stokes To Go), drop it off, and receive your coffee in a fresh Huskee Cup.
Available in 8oz and 12oz sizes, these cups are designed to keep your coffee hotter for longer while being cool to the touch and comfortable to hold. They’re stackable, non-toxic, dishwasher-safe, and incredibly easy to clean. By choosing a Huskee Cup, you’re saying goodbye to single-use cups and hello to a greener future.
2. Support your Local Economy
Think about where you stop for your morning coffee or your afternoon pastry. Boycotting major chains and opting for local heritage cafes and independent stores can help put money back into the local economy, which is beneficial for the community and other local businesses.
3. Transform Waste Into Resources
Your used coffee grounds or tea leaves have a life beyond the cup. Instead of throwing them away, start composting them. Coffee grounds enrich compost with nitrogen, which benefits soil health. If you’re not ready to start a full compost pile, sprinkle grounds around your garden plants—they act as a natural fertilizer and pest deterrent. It’s a simple way to keep waste out of the landfill while nurturing the earth.
For more information, check out 5 ways to re-use coffee grounds & tea bags
4. Rethink Your Grocery Bag Choices
Plastic bags are one of the most ubiquitous pollutants, yet they are so easy to replace. Keep a foldable reusable bag handy for impromptu shopping trips, and choose canvas or cloth bags for your bigger grocery hauls. Over a lifetime, this simple swap can prevent thousands of plastic bags from polluting oceans and harming wildlife.
5. Cut Down on Food Waste
Much of what we discard has potential, from leftover coffee to tea leaves. Turn cold coffee into ice cubes for iced drinks or use it in baking recipes. Tea leaves can be repurposed as potpourri or even as a gentle cleaning scrub for pots and pans. Get creative with leftovers to reduce waste and find joy in giving things a second life.
6. Use Renewable Energy
Consider how you power your life. Switching to renewable energy providers or even installing solar panels at home is becoming more accessible. These options help reduce your carbon footprint and support the shift toward a cleaner energy grid.
7. Shop Local and Seasonal
Whenever possible, buy produce and goods from local farmers and producers. At Stokes, we proudly purchase from local suppliers, many for decades. Seasonal, locally sourced products have a lower carbon footprint since they don’t require long-distance transportation. Plus, supporting local businesses strengthens your community and keeps money circulating locally.
8. Mind Your Water Usage
The simple act of brewing a cup of tea or coffee can waste water if we’re not mindful. Only boil the water you need instead of filling the kettle to the brim every time. This small adjustment can save a surprising amount of energy over the year.
9. Choose Reusable Straws and Utensils
Another simple but impactful change is swapping out disposable plastic straws and utensils for reusable alternatives. Stainless steel, bamboo, or silicone straws and utensils are durable, easy to clean, and can be used for years.
Keep a set in your bag or car for whenever you’re on the go. By making this small swap, you can significantly reduce your plastic waste and help protect marine life and ecosystems from harmful pollutants.
These eco-friendly alternatives are widely available, and using them is a great way to reduce your single-use plastic footprint.
10. Share the Message
Inspire others by sharing your journey. Small conversations can spark big changes, whether recommending your favourite reusable products, gifting sustainably sourced teas, shopping locally or simply talking about your composting efforts. Leading by example creates a ripple effect, encouraging friends and family to join the cause.
11. Choose Pre-Loved
Sites such as Vinted have seen massive growth in recent years, with more people looking for ways to cut down on fast fashion and save money in the process. Buy second-hand where possible, and if you’re buying new opt for well-made items that will last or can be repaired.
12. Support Local Community Projects
Get involved with what’s going on in your community, whether volunteering or taking care of a local garden. Your time is valuable and can greatly benefit those looking for support. It’s also a brilliant way to meet new people, make friends, give back and pay it forward, and small acts of philanthropy are great for your sense of well being too.
13. Support Ethical Brands
Choosing where you spend your money is one of the most impactful decisions you make daily. Look for ethical certifications when shopping for coffee, tea, or any product.
These labels signify more than quality; they guarantee that workers are paid fairly, farming methods are sustainable, and ecosystems are protected. At Stokes we work hard to source responsibly, ensuring that every cup contributes positively to the planet and its people.
Sustainability may seem overwhelming, but we prove that it’s the little things done consistently that matter most. By adopting even one of these changes, you’re contributing to a healthier planet and a more conscious way of living. Together, we can make a big difference, one thoughtful choice at a time.
