Kamis, 06 Juli 2017

How Purchasing Rainforest Alliance Coffee Impacts The Environment

By Brenda Schmidt


A lot of people are lucky enough to be able to stop on their way to work and indulge in a delicious cup of coffee. Not everyone thinks about where the beans came from or who harvested them. Although it is a billion dollar industry and vital to the economic success of Latin America, many of the farmers and communities that grow the product face incredible hardships. Purchasing Rainforest Alliance coffee is a small way to ensure these workers are given a helping hand.

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.

Deforestation is a has been a major problem throughout Latin American. When farmers used traditional methods to farm coffee, the forests and wildlife thrived, but when many resorted to a hybrid seed, which requires extensive sunlight, all the natural resources suffered. The Rainforest Alliance works to educate local farmers about the importance of maintaining a safe and protected water and forest system. It encourages them to sequester carbon, which reduces the effect of global warming.

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.

Most people understand that climate change is real and man made, not just a natural earth cycle. Many do not realize that deforestation is a significant factor and that agriculture contributes to the majority of timber burning and degrading. Greenhouse gases are the unfortunate result of this type of destruction.

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.

Concerned individuals always want to know how they can help. The organization gladly accepts monetary donations while realizing that not everyone has the means to assist in that way. They suggest individuals look for the little green frog which certifies products. Those planning a trip to the area can frequent the hotels and book tours with companies that support the local communities. Parents can encourage school districts to incorporate a curriculum that teaches the importance of the rainforests and the vital part they play in the environment.

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.




About the Author:



Tidak ada komentar:

Posting Komentar