Starbucks recently debuted a series of compostable coffee cups across select states in the US much to the dismay of vocal critics. While the chain coffee company's move to more eco-conscious practice is a commendable (yet well overdue) effort, the intense backlash to its sustainable packaging introduces a wider question around eco-design – can we truly strike the perfect balance between sustainability and style?
For a global brand like Starbucks, its iconic packaging design is just as important as the product, creating the essence of the Starbucks 'experience'. Whether it's an issue around functionality, aesthetics or just the resistance to change that deters its unhappy customers, there's still a long learning journey ahead for both designers and consumers when it comes to building a sustainable future.
