Whether you embark on your morning runs to Starbucks before class or have an espresso machine at home, it is no question that many of us college students run on caffeine. A recent study from Gitnux found that 92% of college students consume caffeine regularly. As an avid coffee drinker myself, I had always wondered what exactly constitutes a sustainable coffee business and how I could make strides towards being a sustainable coffee consumer. 

Back in 2018, Starbucks announced their effort to eliminate single-use plastic straws by introducing new strawless lids and alternative-material straw options. I was 15 years old when this news came out, and I truly thought this was the epitome of sustainability in the coffee industry. Let’s just say I was missing out on the far larger world of coffee sustainability. Now at age 21, my time as an environmental studies major has granted me countless insights as to which sustainability initiatives are the most impactful. You may have heard of the term “green certified business,” but what exactly does this term mean in regard to coffee sustainability?

California Certified Green Businesses are a growing network of businesses that unite to reduce their carbon footprint and promote a sustainable economic structure. As one of Isla Vista’s first California Certified Green Businesses, KOZY Coffee sets a fantastic example to other I.V. businesses in considering a sustainable lens within their business environment. One of the owners, Parker Wallace, is a recent UC Santa Barbara alum who opened KOZY in an effort to offer students a welcoming space that provides extended hours during the chaos of midterms, plenty of power outlets and finals and, of course, some quality coffee creations. While pursuing this goal, KOZY has been successful in implementing eco-friendly practices in its operations.

KOZY strives to create a pleasant atmosphere for its customers which is also supportive of environmental efforts.

I reached out to Wallace via email in order to get a better understanding of the Green Business certification process. Achieving California Green Business certification status means addressing a multitude of environmental considerations, such as waste management, energy conservation, mindful water use, promoting to a local audience and more. “Balancing the initial costs and extensive documentation requirements with our ongoing commitment to environmental responsibility,” said Wallace about his greatest challenge in obtaining certification. Beyond having a California Certified Green Business status, KOZY is actively pursuing other sustainability efforts, such as a zero-waste policy and renewable energy investments.

KOZY sells personalized merch as well as products from local Santa Barbara businesses.

Another incredible resource for sustainability-focused restaurant-goers is the Santa Barbara Surfrider Foundation’s Ocean Friendly Restaurant program. Surfrider has created an interactive map of local restaurants that are “committed to cutting out wasteful single-use plastic and offer a simple, straightforward framework to help them make sustainable choices for our ocean,” according to their website. Some of the featured restaurants include Bettina, Backyard Bowls, Lilac Pâtisserie and Woodstock’s Pizza.

KOZY’s serious commitment to sustainability and the Ocean Friendly Restaurant Program are impressive examples of what makes our local Santa Barbara community so special. As one of the birthplaces of the modern environmental movement, it is no question that many Santa Barbara residents deeply care for the future of our planet. Companies like KOZY have the power to inspire others to follow their lead in creating the future of sustainability.

One’s journey towards becoming a sustainable consumer can begin with your morning cup of coffee. It is my sincere hope that more coffee establishments in the Santa Barbara area will follow the example set by KOZY in taking these first steps toward a greener future. Next time you are in need of a caffeine kick, be sure to stop by KOZY located in the heart of Isla Vista on Pardall Road. 

A version of this article appeared on p. 12 of the Oct. 10, 2024 edition of the Daily Nexus.