Protest planned at Tri-Cities Starbucks. Here’s what prompted it

A local teen plans to lead a protest Saturday morning at a Richland Starbucks.

The issue?

“Soy Milk Surcharge Sux,” say the signs being prepared for the protest.

The coffee shop chain has drawn the ire of PETA — People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals — after it released a new “sustainability commitment.”

The chain’s dairy-based items are the company’s biggest source of carbon dioxide emissions.

“Alternative milks will be a big part of the solution,” PETA quotes Starbucks chief executive Kevin Johnson as saying.

PETA says the Starbucks leader plans to push consumers to choose milk made from almonds, coconuts, soy or oats.

However, the chain now charges extra for most drinks made with nondairy milk.

“Continuing to charge more for vegan milk while admitting that it’s the key to reducing Starbucks’ massive carbon footprint is irresponsible and unethical,” says Rachelle Own, PETA director of student campaigns and influence.

Waylynn Dunn, 16, of Kennewick, will lead the protest at the Starbucks at 698 Gage Blvd. 11 a.m. to noon Saturday.

This story was originally published January 24, 2020 at 12:30 PM.