Concerns about sustainability are becoming increasingly important across all industries. Many consumers look for evidence that their favorite products are not destroying rainforests or exploiting workers before they buy. This is as true for tea as it is for other goods, so suppliers need to be aware of how to make their specialty teas more sustainable.
1. Close relationship with farmers
Sustainable sourcing means going directly to the farmers growing the tea plants and working with them closely. It means you can easily trace the provenance of your tea and know exactly where and how it was grown, without worrying about what happens if it passes through too many intermediaries. Farmers can be paid a fair price, you can be sure that the process was free of heavy machinery, potentially harmful pesticides and the other features associated with less sustainable tea.
2. Organic specialty teas
The organic label is a very specific one that comes with strict criteria. Organic tea plants are grown without pesticides or other artificial chemical additives. They are grown in the most natural way. Organic farming practices have been shown to be better for soil health and for reducing pollution in both ground and water. This is better for the environment as a whole, and also protects local communities. It also means consumers can feel more confident about exactly what they are drinking.
3. Fair Trade tea
Fair Trade is another specific label, this time about making sure farmers are paid a fair wage and have fair, safe working conditions. To run a sustainable business, rather than one that seeks to use up resources as fast as possible for immediate profit, following Fair Trade or similar practices is essential. Being paid a living wage ensures farmers are less vulnerable to exploitation and can earn enough capital to grow and develop their business further. It allows the relationship between them and you to be a true and balanced partnership, rather than one dictating to another.
4. Energy
There are multiple ways to reduce the impact of energy consumption on tea production. From replacing fossil fuels with renewable energy sources to ensuring that all buildings and machinery have their energy efficiency maximized, steps can be taken at every stage of the process. Other policies to offset carbon dioxide production may include planting trees, which can also alleviate the wider impact of deforestation (another concern in expanding tea plantations).
5. Packaging
Sourcing sustainable tea is no good if it is then stored in unsustainable packaging. We minimize the use of plastics and, where possible, employ biodegradable materials. The “reduce, reuse, recycle” motto applies here. Loose leaf tea does not require the extra packaging necessary for individual teabags. Consumers should ensure leaves are stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to keep them fresh for longer.
Sourcing sustainable tea can be a complex and multi-layered process, requiring time and dedication to get right. The key is to ensure you are aware of every aspect of growing, production and packaging. We work closely with partners, including farmers, at every stage so that everyone has their needs met. This means you can continue to source sustainable specialty teas for your clientele for many years to come.