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Socially and
Ecologically Sustainable.
There are a variety of socially and ecologically
sustainable certifications. The guidelines may focus on protecting the environment,
ensuring fair labor practices or support both.
Fair
Trade
Fair Trade primarily aims to support small farmers. Only small farmers who belong
to farmer-owned coffee cooperatives are eligible for Fair Trade certification. Importers
and roasters agree to develop direct, long-term trade relationships with the coops
bringing greater commercial stability to an extremely volatile market. Farmers are
guaranteed a minimum Fair Trade price.
Rainforest
Alliance Certified
Rainforest Alliance certification guarantees the coffee was grown on a farm that
meets standards verified by experienced inspectors. This label also guarantees that
the beans have been shade-grown under the rainforest canopy, minimizing soil erosion
and preserving the biodiversity and natural ecosystem. Workers must be paid fairly,
properly equipped and given access to education and medical care. Forest, rivers,
soils and wildlife are protected. The goal is true long term sustainability.
Organic
“Certified Organic” coffee is grown without synthetic fertilizers and
pesticides. This minimizes contamination of waterways and wildlife and protects
farm workers’ health by decreasing their exposure to chemicals. This is important
to sustainability and is both cost effective and socially responsible.
Shade-grown
Coffee naturally grows in shade under a canopy of trees, but typically yields less.
Sun cultivated techniques were introduced to increase yield, but have led to deforestation.
Shade grown coffee protects bio-diversity and preserves habitats for songbirds which
have become endangered due to habitat damage.
Utz Kapeh
Utz Kapeh, Mayan for ‘good coffee’, outlines standards for socially
and environmentally responsible practices, improved farm management and product
traceability. Utz Kapeh is the main certifier of ethically-sourced coffee in Europe
and is now becoming more readily available in the U.S.
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Learn how your breakroom can become carbon neutral.
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Learn more about our commitment to sustainability
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Speak to Us
And learn how to make your breakrooms the happiest place on the planet.
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