We had removed almond milk from our menu after learning of the environmental impact of growing the nuts back in 2019. Not only does it take approximately 15 gallons of water to produce about 16 almonds[1], but they are predominantly grown in drought-prone California. The USDA Pesticide data program has found residues of nearly nine different pesticides on almonds, five of which are toxic to honey bees. Bees are recruited from all across the states to help force pollinate the almond trees grown in California. This unnatural process is a strain on the bees. Traveling outside of a normal flight radius and mingling with different hives brings more diseases such as mites, parasites, and viruses home with the bees, resulting in a routine loss of 30% (or more! [2]) bees per year.
We keep dairy milk on our menu, despite its environmental drawbacks, because we buy our milk from local farms engaging in sustainable practices and not practicing monoculture style growing. We enjoy supporting our neighbors and the rural economy. If you’d prefer a non-dairy option, we also carry soy and oat milk, and many of our drinks taste great without any creams or sugar.
The pandemic has made issues of care and maintenance for the community prominent topics. It has always been our MO to provide a safe, clean, and professional environment with reliable quality. We value responsibility – this encompasses not only the sustainability practices of the café, but showing up to work each day with a sense of appreciation and attention. We are endlessly grateful for our guests who understand this commitment to thoughtfulness and integrity applies to every facet of the café, even if that means we have to say “no” sometimes. Thank you and stay warm and safe this winter season, we hope to see you soon.
[1] https://sustainability.ucsf.edu/1.713
[2] https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2020/jan/07/honeybees-deaths-almonds-hives-aoe