Tim Hortons brewing more than just coffee with Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives

Many Canadians know that Tim Hortons has many corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives because you have probably donated to the Tim Horton Children’s Foundation while waiting for your double-double. But did you know that the corporate social responsibility initiatives they have implemented go beyond summer camps and Timbit Hockey?  Their environmental corporate social responsibility initiatives might seem insignificant but it’s important to remember that every little bit helps.

So let’s dissect the various components of their plan, the first step, according to their website, is that “hundreds [of their] of stores across Canada offer recycling and/or compost programs which include paper packaging and food waste. [They] continue to work with industry experts to increase the where and what [they] can recycle.” This is not a bad start, but like many of you I thought those cups are not exactly an eco-friendly product.  Well, they anticipated that critique.

The next of their eco-minded corporate social responsibility initiatives is their goal to “promote waste reduction through various in-store programs.  [They] continue to remind customers about [their] china mug option for dining in-store and [their] discount for travel mug users.” How great would it be to being your favorite travel mug in and get a discount?  In this economy every penny counts and my favorite mug is this reusable stainless steel thermal.

Like many people though, I have seen first-hand the litter that is produced by Tim Hortons coffee shops; so I was surprised to know that “Tim Hortons store owners continue to demonstrate community leadership through sponsoring and supporting clean up and tree planting events across Canada. Working together to keep our communities clean makes a true difference.” This is definitely something that they should make more widely known. It appears that they are trying to make a difference and that indicates an understanding that in today’s market, corporations are being held to a higher standard.

The famous philosopher Confucius said that “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step”, so kudos for taking that first step Tim Hortons.  May you continue to find ways to better not only our communities, but also our environment.