In today’s atmosphere of increasing environmental concern, we are realizing that there is no part of our lives that doesn’t impact the world in which we live. Even something as seemingly innocuous as enjoying a cup of coffee or tea impacts our environment. Coffee is the world’s most commonly traded commodity after crude oil. And tea is the world’s most consumed beverage after water. Considering how popular these products are, it only stands to reason that there has to be an environmentally friendly manner to produce and enjoy these beverages. Here are some tips to help you continue you enjoy your daily cup of coffee or tea and, at the same time, lessen your impact on the environment.
Reusable Mug: Find a reusable coffee mug and make the investment. Not only is a reusable mug more enjoyable to drink from, but it will replace an untold number of disposable cups, plastic lids, and “coffee sleeves”.
Go Organic: Coffee and tea that carry organic certification are more environmentally friendly. They are grown and processed without toxic chemicals, are cultivated and harvested in ways that protect sensitive ecosystems, and spare workers from exposure to harmful pesticides and herbicides. Using shade grown coffee helps preserve habitats for migratory birds and allows coffee beans mature slower, creating richer flavors.
Fair Trade Coffee: Drink only certified fair trade coffee and tea. It helps ensure living wages and safe working conditions for farmer workers who make their living growing and harvesting coffee.
Milk and Sugar: Most people put either milk or sugar (or both) in their coffee or tea. Avoid chemical and hormone-laden milk and sugar. Look for organic rice, soy, or almond milk and certified fair trade sugar.
Compost: Tea leaves and coffee grounds make outstanding compost. Coffee is in high nitrogen content, which has made it a fertilizer of choice for centuries. Composting tea leaves and coffee grounds helps make great soil and helps keep organic waste out of landfills.
Gifts: Organic coffee and tea make superb gifts for friends and coworkers. It’s a great way to get people appreciating the many benefits of a “greener” coffee or tea habit.
Finally, if your local coffee shop doesn’t carry coffee and tea that meet your standards, ask that they start.
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