What does ‘organic’ and ‘rainforest alliance certified’ mean when it comes to coffee?
September is Organic Month
This month is Organic Month, a dedicated campaign honouring the positive impact of organic practices on climate, nature, and health. Here at Bristol Twenty Coffee company, we take pride in offering a diverse selection of 16 espresso blends from across the globe, including organic, Fairtrade, and Rainforest Alliance-certified coffee. This month, we delve deeper into the meanings and significance of organic and Rainforest Alliance certification in the world of coffee.
What does Organic mean?
When it comes to coffee, ‘organic’ refers to a specific set of farming practices and standards used in the cultivation of coffee beans. Organic coffee is farmed and processed using natural methods, it minimises the use of synthetic chemicals, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), and artificial additives.
Here’s a closer look at what ‘organic’ means in the context of coffee:
No Synthetic Chemicals: Organic coffee is grown without the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and chemical fertilisers. Instead, natural alternatives are employed to control pests and promote soil fertility. This reduces the potential for harmful residues in the coffee beans and contributes to healthier soil and ecosystems.
Environmental Sustainability: Organic farming practices in coffee cultivation emphasise environmental sustainability. They promote biodiversity, protect natural habitats, and reduce the impact on local ecosystems. This can include practices like shade-grown coffee, which provides a more natural environment for coffee plants and supports diverse wildlife.
Health Benefits: Organic coffee is often considered a healthier choice for consumers. By avoiding synthetic chemicals, it reduces the risk of pesticide residues in the final coffee product. Many people choose organic coffee for health reasons and to support a more sustainable food system.
Who is the Rainforest Alliance?
The Rainforest Alliance is a global non-profit organisation that works in partnership with businesses and farmers to safeguard the natural environment and enhance the well-being of forest-based communities. Their mission is building an alliance to protect forests, enhancing the quality of life for farmers and forest communities, promoting their human rights, and helping them mitigate and adapt to the climate crisis.
What does it mean to be Rainforest Alliance certified?
The Rainforest certification acts as a stamp approval for farms that means their coffee has been produced using methods that support Rainforest Alliances’ three pillars of sustainability: social, economic, and environmental.
Rainforest Alliance Certified™ farms are audited regularly to verify that farmers are complying with the Standard’s comprehensive requirements, which require continual improvement on the journey to sustainable agriculture. The Standard is built on these important principles of sustainable farming:
- Biodiversity conservation
- Improved livelihoods and human well-being
- Natural resource conservation
- Effective planning and farm management systems
In conclusion, as we celebrate Organic Month and explore the meanings and significance of organic and Rainforest Alliance certification in the world of coffee, it becomes abundantly clear that the choices we make as consumers have a profound impact on our environment, the well-being of coffee communities, and the quality of the coffee in our cups. Bristol Twenty Coffee Company takes great pride in offering a diverse range of coffee blends that not only exemplify exceptional taste but also bear witness to our unwavering commitment to quality and responsibility.
