We're Going Above and Beyond Fair Trade

Fair trade is one of those terms that gets thrown around the coffee industry daily. Most of us know, in the basic sense, that fair trade coffee is a more ethical option than everyday grocery store coffee. But why is that? What makes fair trade the better choice...and what does Desert Sun and Cooperative Coffees do differently to rise “above fair trade”?

Fair Trade Definition

Fair Trade Certified defines as, “Fair trade is a global movement made up of a diverse network of producers, companies, consumers, advocates, and organizations putting people and planet first. When you see a product with the Fair Trade Certified seal, you can be sure it meets rigorous social, environmental, and economic standards. That means:

• Safe working conditions
• Environmental protection
• Sustainable livelihoods
• Community Development Funds

How Cooperative Coffees Approaches Fair Trade

Over the years, Cooperative Coffees has built a unique and holistic approach to fair trade practices. Aspects such as developing transparent and accountable relationships, supporting safe and empowering working conditions, ensuring childrens’ rights, and respecting cultural identity are cornerstones of the Coop’s mission.

And that’s not to mention how we directly invest in cultivating environmental stewardship with our farming communities. Lately in the blog, we discussed how our farmers are combating climate change through carbon sequestration practices.

One of the most important aspects of creating transparency is through FairTradeProof.com, where consumers can track exactly where their beans are coming from. You can even see metrics such as how many full-time women staff members work at each farm or cooperative.

Lastly, Cooperative Coffees goes above and beyond by paying our farmers more than the global fair trade rate for coffee. We’re committed to sustaining relationships with the communities that provide us with the most delicious coffee in the world.

Want to go even deeper? Dig in over at Cooperative Coffees!