Use sustainable coffee for greater enjoyment

Paul Smithson

01/11/2011 13:03:13

Coffee lovers have been told that they may enjoy the drink even more if they know if has been produced in a sustainable way.

Terri Bennett, founder of green campaign DoYourPart, wrote in the Miami Herald that consumers’ decisions regarding what they fill their bean to cup coffee machines with can have a real difference on the environment and international farmers.

She urged people to check the labels of their favourite coffee products to check whether they are organic, fair trade and shade-grown, since these are the signs of sustainably grown beans.

“Are you someone who savours that morning cup of coffee? Do you enjoy the smell and taste of a freshly brewed pot? You’ll enjoy it even more if you do your part to seek out fair trade and organic coffees,” remarked Ms Bennett.

For those who want to ensure coffee farmers receive a fair price for their crops, fair trade is not the only option. ROASTe.com recently pointed out that consumers can also opt for ‘direct trade’ products.

While fair trade makes sure that growers are getting a good financial deal and puts money into community projects, direct trade cuts out any middleman, which means that all money goes directly to the farmers.

Both strategies are respected for the way they have helped to raise living standards, while allowing retailers and consumers to have a clear conscience regarding their coffee consumption.