At Watermark Coffee, sustainability is more than a commitment—it’s the foundation of everything we do. As a small, dedicated team of people supplying coffee and coffee machine services across Ireland, we are proud to integrate ethical and sustainable practices into our operations. From sourcing to restoration initiatives, we aim to make a positive, measurable impact on the environment, our community, and our future.
Our Commitment to Sustainability
We are committed to a nature-positive approach—going beyond reducing our environmental footprint to actively restoring and enhancing ecosystems. Through innovative strategies like our Theory of Change, we align our environmental and social goals with clear, measurable outcomes. Sustainability at Watermark Coffee means creating lasting benefits for biodiversity, communities, and the planet. In October 2024, Watermark Coffee achieved B Corp Certification, a globally recognised standard that highlights our commitment to balancing purpose with profit. This certification validates our dedication to sustainability, ethical business practices, and delivering positive impacts for our employees, customers, community, and the environment.
Sustainable Practices
Across Operations
Ethical Sourcing and Circular Economy
- Rainforest Alliance-Certified Coffee: We work directly with farmers to ensure ethical practices, fair treatment, and transparent supply chains.
- Coffee Machine Rentals & Repairs: By extending equipment lifespans, we reduce waste and emissions from manufacturing and disposal, embracing a circular economy model.
Since 2018, we’ve significantly reduced our emissions through:
- Solar panels and energy-efficient appliances: Cutting electricity-related emissions by 65%.
- Optimised logistics: A preventative maintenance model reduced diesel emissions by 45% and business travel emissions by 63%.
- Waste reduction: Transitioning to recyclable materials and reducing packaging waste led to a 29% drop in waste-related emissions.
Engaging Our Community
Employee and Volunteer Participation
Our team is central to our sustainability efforts,
from determining emission-reduction strategies to volunteering in restoration projects. Community members also join us in initiatives like maintaining oyster baskets in Dublin Bay, fostering hands-on environmental engagement.
Customer Collaboration
Customers who purchase Woodland Coffee or Green Ocean Coffee receive personalised certificates outlining their positive environmental impact. This connection transforms coffee consumption into a tangible contribution to reforestation and marine restoration.
Partnerships for Progress
Collaborating with institutions like UCD, Trinity College, ensures scientific monitoring and alignment with national goals. Collaborations with ‘not for profit’ organisations and local councils amplify our impact and raise awareness.
B Corp Certification: A Milestone Achievement
Achieving B Corp Certification in October 2024 is a major milestone in our sustainability journey. This certification recognises our commitment to meeting the highest standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency.
As a certified B Corp, we continue to:
- Lead by example in sustainable business practices.
- Align our operations with the principles of social and environmental responsibility.
- Foster a culture of continuous improvement in every area of our business.
Our certification reaffirms that we are making meaningful contributions to our employees, customers, community, and the planet. It also holds us accountable for continually striving to enhance our impact.
Measurable Results
- Emissions Reductions (2018-2023):
- Diesel emissions: Down 45%.
- Electricity emissions: Down 65%.
- Waste-related emissions: Down 29%.
- Environmental Impact:
- Woodland Coffee: Sequestering 60.51 tCO2e in 2024.
- Green Ocean Coffee: Our Dublin Bay oysters are filtering 1.7 billion litres of water annually, removing pollutants and supporting biodiversity.
Looking Ahead
- Expanding Tree Planting: Identifying new locations to build on the success of the Pallasgreen site.
- Scaling Marine Restoration: Through the newly established Green Ocean Foundation, we will expand oyster reef and seagrass bed restoration projects with additional funding from corporate partnerships and sponsorships.
- Building on B Corp Values: We remain committed to upholding the rigorous standards of B Corp Certification, ensuring a legacy of sustainability, social responsibility, and ethical business practices.
Join Us in Building a Sustainable Future
Sustainability is a journey, and we’re committed to leading the way. Whether you’re a customer, partner, or volunteer, your support fuels our mission to leave the natural world better than we found it. Together, we can create a lasting legacy for future generations.