Finally, some better news for people and the environment this year.

Yesterday, Dunkin’ removed the upcharge for plant-based milk, the second-largest coffee chain in the US (and not on any BDS list, so it’s my number one) to do so.

PHOTO: GETTY IMAGES

Mercy for Animals, a nonprofit organization dedicated to ending animal exploitation in the food system, spearheaded the change in Dunkin’ 9500 stores nationwide. With Dunkin’ now on board, it means four of the largest coffee chains in the country now offer plant-based milk at no additional cost. It also means a significant shift towards accessibility and sustainability is occurring in coffee.

While plant-based folks and vegans celebrate not having to fork out extra money for their dietary choices, there’s even more reason to celebrate for consumers in underserved communities and food deserts.

Food deserts and dietary necessity

Millions of Americans cannot consume dairy for health reasons. In fact, a report from Boston Children’s Hospital shows 30-50 million of Americans are lactose intolerant. It’s made up of 80% percent of African-American and Native Americans, and more than 90% of Asian-Americans.

So, even while plant-based milk is an essential dietary alternative for millions, many (ok, most, let’s be real) coffee chains have historically charged extra for these options. Unfortunately, doing this disproportionately affects communities already facing economic and geographic barriers to healthier food choices.

In low-income neighborhoods across the US, access to fresh produce and dairy alternatives remains limited (which desperately needs to change). This means even if someone needs to swap dairy milk or get some fresh produce, they can’t because it is more expensive than the subsidized options. Dunkin’ makes it easier for those needing dairy alternatives by nixing the upcharge.

“Mercy For Animals applauds Dunkin’ for this landmark decision,” says Jennifer Behr, corporate relations manager at Mercy For Animals. “Dunkin’s decision to drop non-dairy milk upcharge is not only a win for the environment and animals, it’s also a win for the millions of people who cannot consume dairy due to lactose intolerance. The company’s new policy is a step towards accessibility and inclusivity.”

Plant-based vs dairy

Dairy production is significantly more resource-intensive than plant-based alternatives. In fact, it contributes to higher greenhouse gas emissions and requires far more water and land. And we’re not even getting into the reality of dairy cows, which is a whole other thing, and the resources they require.

According to research, oat milk production generates three times fewer greenhouse gas emissions, uses 11 times less land, and requires 13 times less water than cow’s milk. By making plant-based options more accessible, people can make more environmentally conscious choices without having to fork over extra cash. I mean, as concerned humans who want to slow climate change, shouldn’t we be able to do that without having to come from places of privilege and money?

I take all of this as a good sign, though — the rapid growth of the plant-based milk industry reflects a broader consumer shift toward sustainable, ethical food choices. By 2030, the market for dairy alternatives is projected to reach a whopping $47 billion., with oat, almond, and soy milk leading the movement. It’s driven not only by environmental concerns but also by increasing awareness of health benefits associated with plant-based diets, including reduced cholesterol levels and lower risks of certain chronic diseases.

The move by Dunkin’ hopefully sets a precedent for other major coffee chains. At least if Mercy For Animals has anything to say about it. They are urging additional brands, including Bluestone Lane and Biggby Coffee, to follow Dunkin’ and eliminate their upcharges.