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Why is Organic Coffee Better?
Organic coffee is produced without synthetic pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers as well as GMOs (genetically modified organisms). Instead, growers employ natural weed control measures like mulching, composting and hand weeding – methods which do not pollute nearby waterways or soil with harmful chemicals used by non-organic farms whose crops are often sprayed with herbicides and pesticides that end up polluting nearby ecosystems and wildlife habitats. Organic coffee farms do not spray crops with chemicals this makes it healthier both for the environment as well as local wildlife populations alike.
Growing organic crops is also healthier for growers as they don’t use toxic chemicals when cultivating their crops – something which benefits both them and the planet alike. When growers forgo chemical fertilizers altogether, they’re contributing towards mitigating climate change by emitting less carbon emissions while sequestering significant quantities.
Organic coffee farming helps preserve and enhance biodiversity of surrounding forests and land, thus preventing soil erosion while providing habitats for birds and other creatures.
Trees provide essential shade that keeps soil moist and healthy – which is vital for coffee plants’ survival. Healthy coffee plants will be stronger and more resistant to drought, disease and pest infestation; ultimately resulting in more delicious cup of joe!
Coffee can be an acidic beverage. This is due to non-organic growers using full sun on monocrops with chemical solvents to clean their beans before harvest. With regards to organic coffee production, beans don’t undergo this same chemical-spraying process and instead are usually grown under forest canopy shade conditions for much lower acidic levels resulting in much more pleasant tasting beverages.
Organic coffee also boasts an exceptional flavor profile. When non-organic beans are treated with chemical herbicides and pesticides, their residues may seep into your cup – organic coffee is free from these toxins so you can enjoy its robust flavors without fear of potential health risks.
However, while organic coffee may offer many advantages, it’s important to remember that not all companies that produce or sell organic coffee do so in an ethical fashion. Greenwashing occurs when companies promote their products as being environmentally- or socially responsible without compensating farmers fairly for their efforts. Luckily, there are companies who provide fair trade certification for organic coffee. By doing this, you ensure that you’re not supporting companies engaging in greenwashing practices. For more information about fair trade certified organic coffee click here. By purchasing fair trade certified organic coffee, you can be confident that the farmer who produced your cup was paid a fair wage for their efforts. As reported by the Fairtrade Labelling Organisation, most coffee globally is grown on small family farms with 85% female producers! Supporting these families as well as their communities and the planet by purchasing fair trade certified organic coffee is truly admirable!