Fair Trade, Organic Coffee and the Rainforest Alliance
Most people aren't familiar with the inner workings of the coffee trade, they just enjoy their cup of coffee. But who grows your coffee and how they do it makes a big difference.
Fair Trade
Many agricultural workers in the coffee industry toil in what has been described as "sweatshops in the fields." Meanwhile farmers often receive prices for their coffee that's less than the cost of production, forcing them into a vicious cycle of poverty and debt. That's why Fair Trade organizations were created. To become "Fair Trade Certified," an importer must meet stringent international criteria, including paying a minimum price per pound and providing much needed assistance for farmers and community development. By buying and drinking Fair Trade certified coffees you can be assured that the coffee beans were purchased under fair conditions.
What is Organic Coffee?
In order to be labeled "Organic," a coffee must be grown using methods and materials that have a low impact on the environment. This means the growers replenish and maintain soil fertility, reduce the use of toxic and persistent pesticides and fertilizers, and build biologically diverse agriculture. This is verified by a third-party certification organization which makes sure the farmers use only methods and materials allowed in organic production. Then, and only then, can it be called "Organic."
Rainforest Alliance Certified
Agriculture already uses 38 percent of the Earth's land and, as the population continues to grow, more forests are being converted to farmland. If current farming practices continue it will damage our planet's fragile ecosystem as well as accelerate the cycle of poverty experienced by most farmers.
The Rainforest Alliance works with farmers around the globe to ensure compliance with the Sustainable Agriculture Network (SAN) standards for protecting wildlife, wild lands, workers' rights and local communities. Farms that meet these rigorous standards are awarded the Rainforest Alliance Certified seal. Rainforest Alliance Certification results in less water pollution, less soil erosion, reduced threats to the environment and human health, protection of wildlife habitat, less waste, less water used, and improved conditions for farm workers.
Featured Blends
- Starbucks Café Estima
- Peet's Fair Trade and Gaia Organic Blends
- Terranova House Blend Organic
- Weaver's Peru Organic
- Flavia Rainforest Alliance Certified coffees and teas
- Newman's Own Organic K-Cups from Green Mountain
Environmentally Responsible Brewing
The energy efficient Flavia Creation 400
The latest Flavia single serving coffee brewer, the Creation 400, was designed with energy efficiency in mind, saving water, energy and money. In fact, it uses 40% less energy annually than the leading competitor!
- Saves energy by only heating enough water for a few drinks at a time.
- Sophisticated control system heats water to the right temperature, so there's no overheating and minimal re-heating.
- Uses energy efficient LED indicators instead of standard filament light bulbs on the display.
Supplies
Paper Cups
Compostable paper hot cups from Bare by Solo are lined with polylactic acid (PLA), which is derived from corn grown in the USA. As opposed to most cups on the market that are lined with petroleum-based plastics, these are compostable in a commercial composting facility.
Plates
We carry a line of environmentally friendly 100% biodegradable, recyclable and compostable plates and bowls in a variety of sizes and styles.
Paper Products
Marcal napkins, paper towels and tissues are made from 100% recycled paper, not trees. They're hypoallergenic, virtually lint free, and whitened without chlorine bleaching, yet have the perfect combination of strength, absorbency and softness to handle every job.
Utensils
PrimeWare biodegradable knives, forks and spoons are made with two types of PSM (Plant Starch Material)-corn starch and potato starch. They're water-proof, oil-proof, and are FDA approved for Food Contact. Great for use with hot and cold food or drinks.
Wood Stirrers
Wood coffee stirrers from Prime Source are the natural way to stir your hot beverage. 100% biodegradable.
Cleaning Supplies
Green Works glass and all-purpose cleaners from Clorox are made from eco-friendly, naturally derived plant-and mineral-based materials, yet work as well as conventional cleaners without the harsh chemical fumes or residue. They're dermatologist-tested and have recently received certification from the Natural Products Association.
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