Coffee chain Starbucks will turn off all taps at stores around the world in an effort to save water and rescue its corporate image.

A high-profile investigation by The Sun last week found the chain wastes thousands of tonnes of water each day by leaving taps on in stores so that spoons can be cleaned.

The story was picked up by other national and international media and did much damage to a brand that prides itself on its ethical standards.

A spokesperson for Starbucks said last night that the stores are introducing an "interim operational procedure".

"Stores will be instructed to switch off the dipper well tap and will wash spoons after use," the company said.

The company had said it left the taps running constantly for hygiene reasons, but this claim was rubbished by the government and environmental charities.

The chain will now look at alternative methods of washing the spoons, possibly in a dishwasher.