Target: Chief Executive Officer of Dunkin’, Scott Murphy
Goal: Ensure that Dunkin’ fully commits to ethical practices in coffee production by eliminating the vegan milk surcharge.
Dunkin’ is poised to make a significant change by eliminating the upcharge for vegan milks, effective March 5, 2025. This decision follows mounting pressure from animal welfare advocates, who argue that the previous costs associated with vegan options perpetuate unnecessary harm to animals and bolster the dairy industry’s exploitative practices. The grim realities of dairy farming, including the forced impregnation of cows and the traumatic separation of calves from their mothers, underscore the urgent need for compassionate choices within the coffee industry. Tens of thousands of supporters have vocalized their commitment to more ethical consumption, aligning their coffee choices with their values.
The decision to remove the surcharge is also viewed as a response to broader environmental concerns linked to dairy farming, which is a significant contributor to climate change. Methane emissions from cows pose a serious threat to the environment, and communities of color reportedly face disproportionate impacts, including higher rates of lactose intolerance and food insecurity. By not imposing additional costs on vegan milks, Dunkin’ is taking a step toward breaking these harmful cycles, leading consumers to consider more sustainable and cruelty-free options.
The demand for ethical practices within the coffee industry is growing, and Dunkin’s move represents a pivotal opportunity to set a precedent for all coffee chains. The commitment to fair pricing for vegan options must not only empower consumers but also reinforce a collective responsibility to address animal welfare and environmental degradation. Therefore, it is crucial that Dunkin’ ensures the complete elimination of the vegan milk surcharge, demonstrating leadership in compassion and sustainability across the industry.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Mr. Murphy,
As Dunkin’ prepares to eliminate the upcharge for vegan milks, it is vital to recognize the significant impact this decision will have on animal welfare and environmental sustainability. The dairy industry engages in practices that are deeply distressing to cows and detrimental to our planet, contributing to climate change and affecting marginalized communities disproportionately. By removing this extra cost, Dunkin’ not only enhances consumer access to compassionate choices but also aligns the brand with a growing movement toward ethical consumption.
While this change is a positive step forward, it is essential that Dunkin’ stands firm in its commitment to these values. The dairy industry’s troubling practices, including the forced separation of calves from their mothers and the environmental consequences of dairy farming, highlight the urgent need for a shift toward cruelty-free options. There is a collective expectation for Dunkin’ to lead by example and reinforce this commitment by fully eliminating the surcharge without delay.
We urge you to ensure that this policy change is not merely symbolic; rather, it should serve as a catalyst for more inclusive and ethical practices within the coffee industry. Upholding this standard can underscore Dunkin’s role as a champion of animal welfare and environmental stewardship, guiding other chains to take similar measures. The world is watching, and together, we can shape a more compassionate future for both consumers and animals alike.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Pixabay
