With which nonprofit organization did Starbucks partner in 1998 to develop ethical sourcing guidelines?

Starbucks partnered with Conservation International in 1998 to develop ethical sourcing guidelines aimed at promoting sustainable coffee practices. This partnership was a critical step for Starbucks as it sought to enhance the quality of coffee while ensuring that farmers adhered to environmentally friendly and socially responsible methods. Through this collaboration, Starbucks focused on protecting biodiversity, supporting farmer livelihoods, and fostering sustainable agricultural practices. Conservation International’s expertise in environmental issues and sustainable development made it a suitable partner for Starbucks on this initiative, leading to the creation of the Coffee and Farmer Equity (C.A.F.E.) Practices, which serve as a framework for ethical sourcing.