Certifications for The Coffee Industry
Fair Trade USA
Fair Trade USA promotes fair trading conditions for farmers over a range of crop types including coffee. It addresses the livelihood of coffee farming from the fair treatment of workers to increased visibility in the market. Ideal for companies seeking to address social issues including sustainable wage for farmers, agricultural practices and workers’ rights.
Rainforest Alliance
This certification provides a more holistic approach, focusing on sustainability and climate resilience in coffee production. Through this certification, Rainforest Alliance helps to train coffee growers in regenerative agriculture and climate-smart farming practices. They also help to connect small farmers to international markets.
USDA Organic
For coffee growers, USDA Organic certification confirms that the crop is grown and processed without pesticides, synthetic fertilizers or the use of GMOs. USDA Organic ensures production in line with strict standards focused on sustainable farming practices. Organic Certification is widely recognized by consumers to make informed purchasing decisions.
Starbucks C.A.F.É. Practices
Starbucks purchases their coffee using the standard C.A.F.É. (Coffee and Farm Equity) Practices program. Developed in partnership with Conservation International and SCS Global Services in 2004, the verification program ensures that Starbucks sources sustainably grown and processed coffee. Measured against more than 200 social, economic and environmental indicators, the standard promotes transparent, profitable, and responsible coffee growing practices while protecting the well-being of coffee farmers, their communities and the planet.
