Date of Graduation

5-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts

Degree Level

Undergraduate

Department

International and Global Studies

Advisor/Mentor

Contreras, Rogelio

Committee Member

Hare, Laurence

Second Committee Member

Phillips, Jared

Abstract

Specialty Coffee Roasters are starting to adopt transparency to reshape the coffee value chain, as climate change and sustainability challenges deepen. Through a case study of Onyx Coffee Lab in Arkansas, this research examines how transparency in pricing and traceability can foster more equitable and sustainable value chain systems. This thesis also explores the potential of B Corp Certification to further embed sustainability into Specialty Coffee Roasters’ business models, by comparing Onyx with Coffee Collective based in Denmark, which already has B Corp certification. By making pricing transparent and investing in producer relationships, Specialty Coffee Roasters can lead a future that is not only sustainable but also deeply rooted in shared passion and mutual respect. The future of coffee depends on the actions of Specialty Coffee Roasters.

Keywords

Sustainable Value Chain; Transparency; Traceability; Specialty Coffee

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