Starbucks Canada announced some important initiatives at the company’s annual meeting of shareholders today.

The first is a pilot that will begin in Vancouver, where the coffee chain will test out a ‘greener’ to-go cup that’s both recyclable and compostable.

Photo Credit: Starbucks Canada

“We know how important this issue is to Canadians and we’re committed to being a part of the solution,” said Michael Conway, president of Starbucks Canada.

“I’m excited and proud that our customers in Vancouver will be among the first to sip coffee from a greener to-go cup.”

Starbucks is also taking an initiative that begun last summer to a new level this year and it has to do with the company’s goal to eliminate plastic straws by 2020.

A new strawless lid will debut in Toronto this summer and the plan is for it to be in stores across Canada and the United States by the end of the year.

The lids have been redesigned to be more lightweight than the ones that Starbucks tested last summer and they have 9% less plastic than the current lid and straw.

Photo Credit: Starbucks Canada

“Rather than replacing plastic straws, we’re focusing our efforts on reducing waste with the introduction of a recyclable strawless lid,” Conway explained.

Beyond their environmental initiatives, Starbucks Canada also verified that it has achieved gender equity pay in Canada.

Our real focus is not on the number but on the behaviors and systems that drive equity,” said Conway.

“We’re committed to creating an equitable environment in Canada where everyone can flourish and be valued.”

Conway says he hopes other businesses will follow suit and encourages them to do so.