Date of Graduation

5-2026

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration

Degree Level

Undergraduate

Department

Accounting

Advisor/Mentor

Contreras, Rogelio Garcia

Abstract

Sustainability has become an increasingly important issue in the coffee industry as businesses

face growing pressure to balance profitability with environmental and social responsibility.

While much of the existing research focuses on large corporations and global supply chains, less

attention has been given to how small independent businesses approach sustainability with fewer

resources and different operational constraints. This study examines Doomsday Coffee Roasters,

a small specialty coffee business in Northwest Arkansas, to better understand how sustainability

is practiced at the local level.

Using a qualitative case study approach, the research focuses on four areas of operation: ethical

sourcing, roasting practices, waste management, and community engagement. Findings show

that Doomsday Coffee incorporates sustainability through direct relationships with farmers,

small-batch roasting that helps reduce waste, practical recycling efforts, and strong community

involvement tied to local and veteran support initiatives. The study also identifies opportunities

for growth through more formal measurement of environmental and social impact.

Overall, the case shows that sustainability for small businesses often looks different from big

corporate models and is often more closely tied to values, relationships, and daily decision-

making. These findings contribute to a broader understanding of how independent specialty

roasters can create meaningful sustainability practices with the limitations of a small-scale

business model.

Keywords

Sustainable; Coffee; Roasting; Community; Waste; Sourcing

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