Monday, 10 July 2017

How Purchasing Rainforest Alliance Coffee Impacts The Environment

By Brenda Schmidt


Many adults feel they can't start their day without at least one strong cup of coffee. There are people who enjoy tasting new flavors and don't mind paying several dollars for a small sampling. These same individuals may never give a thought to the farm workers who make this pleasure possible. While this industry has exploded over the last few years, the Latin American communities where the beans for planted, grown and harvested have had less success. You can help them and the environment by purchasing Rainforest Alliance coffee.

Rainforest Alliance certification is not easy to get. The farmers and cooperatives must prove themselves by meeting stringent and specific qualifications, including a commitment to social, economic, and environmental responsibility. They certify that their workers are given a living wage and labor under agreed upon guidelines. Female workers are included in the rules for humane treatment.

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.

Although the coffee industry is thriving, Latin American farmers often see little of this wealth trickling into their pockets. Many end up abandoning their farms or leveling forests in order to plant single crops. With help from the Rainforest Alliance, many farmers are learning how to maximize the land they have, which increases their yield and produces more money at the market.

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.

Human rights violations go along with the lack of respect and proper education with regard to the importance of natural resources. It is not uncommon for laborers to live with poverty, violence, and displacement. This organization has as one of its goals economic security for these workers.

People always want to know how to help, and there are many ways it can be done. Money is always welcome, but so is choosing products that clearly advertise the seal of certification. Commercial establishments that display the seal can be chosen over those that don't. Vacationers to Latin American can opt to stay at participating hotels and book tours with companies that do the same.

People who are lucky enough to enjoy their cup of coffee everyday should consider the effort that went into their pleasure. Supporting Rainforest Alliance products is one way to do that. It may seem like a small thing, but it can make a difference.




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