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Starbucks plans to switch to 100% recyclable or reusable cups by 2015, and while the goal is admirable, the timeline is too long, so it’s time we tell Starbucks to make the change by the end of 2009.  Starbucks has taken some significant steps to reduce their environmental impact in recent years, including tackling climate change, conserving resources, and building LEED-certified stores, and while I may not be crazy about them popping up on every corner, I’m encouraged by their efforts to create a more sustainable coffee industry.

What I’m not thrilled about is that 2.3 billion non-recyclable paper Starbucks cups head to landfills each year, and even though eco-friendly cup options are available today and are used by some competitors, Starbucks seems to think we can wait six years for a greener alternative.  If Starbucks is serious about their commitment to environmental stewardship, they should prove it to us by making the switch to recyclable or compostable cups sooner. 

And yes, bringing your own cup to the store is a great solution to the waste created by disposable cups, but even the most diligent of us no-impacters sometimes are caught craving a cup and don’t have a travel mug handy.  The reality is that many people will continue to rely on the convenience of disposable cups to a large extent, and so why not make those cups have the least ecological impact as possible.  And while I prefer to support independent coffee shops, particularly ones that stock fair trade beans, Starbucks will continue to be the coffee shop of choice for so many people, I think it’s wise to use our collective consumer power to help them make the right choices for the environment.

Use the action link below to join the “Starbucks Eco-Cup Switch in 2009″ campaign.  Once the campaign reaches 1,000 participants everyone will request the change on Starbucks feedback page on the same day.