Sustainability, (Socially and Ecologically)

In our industry there are a number of certifications that can be obtained which are focused on protecting the environment, or making sure that there are fair labor practices or both.

Fair Trade:

This is a away to coordinate small farmers into cooperation's that will insure long term relationships Importers and roasters; thus creating a greater commercial stability to a volatile market. They will all be guaranteed a fair price.

Rainforest Alliance Certified:

This certification is designed to provide true long term sustainability; while also protecting the small farmers. It insures that all of the coffee beans are shade-grown beneath the rain forest canopy. This prevents soil erosion and helps to protect the biodiversity and natural ecosystem. Workers are also guaranteed proper pay, equipment and given access to education and medical care.

Shade Grown:

Coffees natural growth is in the shade, but because of less sunshine the yield is less. By using sun grown coffees it generally leads to deforestation. Shade grown protects the habitats for a number of songbirds which are becoming endangered.

Organic:

This certification insures that the coffees are not grown with synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. This protects the wildlife and farmers from harmful chemicals. It can be also be cost effective.

Utz Kapeh:

Mayan for “good coffee’, this improves farm management and product traceability. In Europe, Utz Kapeh is the main certifier of ethically-sourced coffee and is now becoming available in the U.S.