Starbucks, the popular café chain, has announced its intention to establish a state-of-the-art sustainability learning and innovation lab at Hacienda Alsacia. Situated in Costa Rica, Hacienda Alsacia serves as Starbucks’ worldwide agronomy headquarters, dedicated to research and development endeavors.
Designed as a central hub, the forthcoming lab will act as a focal point for Starbucks partners (employees), students, researchers, and industry leaders. It aims to provide diverse learning avenues, both through practical engagement and virtual resources. The lab’s primary focus will revolve around fostering innovation and facilitating the expansion of sustainable solutions for critical global concerns. These encompass a wide range of environmental and social challenges, such as climate adaptation and agricultural economics.
Laxman Narasimhan, CEO, Starbucks, said, “This is an opportunity for us to advance Starbucks environmental promise to give more than we take and our farmer promise to ensure the future of coffee for all. We know we cannot do this important work alone, and the possibilities in front of us to scale solutions, partner with thought leaders and serve as a global hub for innovation are limitless.”
Beginning in the upcoming autumn semester, the laboratory will introduce its initial set of educational programs exclusively available to a chosen group of Arizona State University (ASU) students and Starbucks partners. This inaugural phase will make use of ASU’s cutting-edge educational technology and exceptional faculty to enhance the overall student learning journey. It will incorporate study abroad options connected to ASU’s existing degree programs, such as Sustainability, Sustainable Food Systems, Global Agribusiness, Environmental and Resource Management, and various others. The physical establishment of the Starbucks lab is projected to take place within the next three years.
“This is an exciting new chapter in our nearly decade-long partnership with Starbucks. The new sustainability learning and innovation lab will expand on our collaboration together, working closely to tackle critical challenges with a collective commitment to seek new and sustainable approaches that impact global communities,” added said Arizona State University President Michael Crow.