Friday, July 14, 2017

You Are Supporting Environmental Responsibility When You Choose Rainforest Alliance Coffee

By Brenda Schmidt


The first thing on many people's agenda in the morning is a hot mug of coffee. Some are even willing to pay significant amounts of money for a big cup of designer brew. There is such a demand for this product that the industry is booming. There are non-profit organizations dedicated to ensuring that a fraction of the profits eventually fall into the hands of the farmers and laborers who harvest the crops. When you opt to purchase a bag of Rainforest Alliance coffee for instance, you are contributing to the efforts of these workers.

When you see the seal on a bag of beans, you can rest assured that this product has met strict standards when it comes to environmental, economic, and social responsibility. The cooperatives and individual farmers who attain the certification have met or exceeded extensive criteria. A certificate means the workers they use earn a living wage and are treated in a fair and humane way. This includes the female workers.

At one time, many farmers abandoned the traditional methods of farming and began planting a hybrid seed that required the destruction of forests and chemicals to be successful. The alliance is working to return farmers to the traditional methods that protect natural resources and encourage wildlife habitation. They are teaching local communities about land and water conservation and protection. Reducing the carbon footprint is encouraged.

This business may be booming, but few farmers have benefited from the success. Many farmers opt to plant single crops which involves leveling forests. This organization is dedicated to convincing local planters that by increasing their yield in an environmentally responsible way, they will harvest more product and become a more powerful force in the local marketplace.

There is a direct relationship between agriculture and the effects of climate change. When the rainforests are decimated to make room for fields, greenhouse gases are emitted into the atmosphere. The Rainbow Alliance teaches communities how to protect and use their natural resources instead of destroying them.

Poverty and violence go hand in hand along with a lack of education when it comes to preserving the rainforest and wildlife habitats. Workers have long been victims of labor law violations, disenfranchisement, and displacement. This organization realizes the importance of establishing economic security within the community.

Individuals around the world can do simple things to help in this effort. Donations are welcome, but there are other ways to contribute. Consumers can choose to purchase beans that are certified with the official seal. They can frequent shops and restaurants that display the official rainforest frog. Tourists can book hotels and take tours through companies supporting the local communities. Encouraging local schools to educate students about the ecosystem and the importance of sustainable farming will have an impact.

It is always a good idea not to take good fortune for granted. When you sip your morning coffee, you should take time to reflect on what it took to get it into your hands. Supporting the efforts to improve the social, economic and environmental conditions of workers is not difficult, but it is very important.




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