The earthy depth of the dark roast fills the air, delivering an irresistible aroma that awakens the senses.
If you haven’t guessed already, we’re talking about coffee. A beverage that is adored by millions of people worldwide, craved first thing in the morning and relied on for that energy boost throughout the day. But I find myself wondering how a drink so popular has so many dark secrets.
In this article we have teamed up with Origen Coffee House to learn about the coffee industry and the importance of supporting fair trade products. Please note that Origen implements Fairtrade practices and are currently in the process of being certified as Fairtrade.
Fair trade, what is it and why.
Fair trade, a term that is popping up more and more in today’s society, with fair- trade stickers displayed on food, and advertisements all over the internet. But when you ask yourself what fair trade is, would you be able to answer the question?
Fair trade is a trading partnership that’s based on ethical principles and fair practices between producing regions and consuming countries. In simple terms, this means that trade between farmers and consumers is fair and transparent, implementing better pay, improved working conditions and banning slave labour.
Now it may sound crazy that we have to implement these principles, but sadly there are a lot of large organizations that exploit the farmers and workers of developing countries, paying them little to nothing while their profits continue to grow. Exploitation happens in all areas of trade including agriculture, textiles, electronics, and the mining industry, having devastating effects on the people and environment.
“Coffee production is often referred to as the coffee chain because of the important steps that make the journey from seed to cup. If one step fails, the entire system will be affected. From soil preparation to the position of plants, and the quality of cherries, the farmers must ensure that each step is in working order to create the perfect cup of coffee.”- Carlos Carvajal Pereira
Coffee farming
Are you one of those people that needs a cup of coffee first thing in the morning?
You are? Well, I’m the same. I look forward to that first sip of coffee and have great pleasure in lining up waiting to order my almond milk latte, knowing that it will instantly make me feel better.
Did you know that the coffee trade is a multi-billion-dollar industry that is growing more and more everyday. An industry associated with exploitation and unsustainable practices, but also a sector that Is fighting for change. Quite often coffee farmers live in poor rural communities and rely on coffee production as their primary source of income.
For context, there are over 500,000 families in Colombia working in the farming industry, with hundreds of micro lots running all over the country. And unfortunately, not all farmers are lucky enough to partner with ethical organizations like Origen Coffee House.
If you didn’t already know, coffee production is a physical job that relies on cheap labour and bad working conditions. Farmers have to spend all day working on sloped terrains in the beaming sun, carrying heavy buckets and bending down for lengthy times which is tough on the body. Their pay is less than adequate, which at times turns out to be less than the production cost. As farmers are paid by the weight of the beans, it often means that they focus on the quantity rather than quality, resulting in a low standard of coffee.
And just when you think things can’t get any worse, the industry is known for slave and child labour, exposing kids as young as 8 years old to the brutally long workdays. Sadly, there are reports online of large organizations being outed for slave and child labour, with one being a global success, known and supported worldwide.
I wish I could stop there, but there are also environmental impacts that can be improved if people support fair trading. Sun-grown coffee is a major source of deforestation due to the forests being cleared to make room for new plants.
But if farmers were paid a higher wage, they could implement a more environmentally friendly production system that conserves water and reduces the need to expand.
However, on a lighter note, organic and specialty coffee uses sustainable farming practices that provides a clean, healthy product. Organic cultivation eliminates the use of chemicals that are often used in conventional farming, helping to protect soil fertility, water quality and wildlife habitats.
Next time you order a cup of coffee, think about the lovely farmers who have worked hard to produce your beloved beverage.
From left to right: Carlos Carvajal Pereira (co-founder), Yamid Godoy (coffee farmer), Luis Guitierrez (coffee farmer), Ivan (co-founder)
“Our mission is to give the farmers a voice, to acknowledge the sustainable practices, teach Colombian traditions, all while enjoying a great cup of coffee”.
Intro to Origen
Established in March 2021, Origen Coffee House is a Colombian coffee company that practices and promotes fair trading. A brand known for its exceptional taste and quality, producing specialty coffee using the famous Arabica bean.
Their love for the industry is reflected in their values, producing a high-quality product, and making sure that the farmers are appreciated. Jose Caceres, Yamig Godoy and Luis Guitierrez are only 3 of the of farmers who work immensely hard on a daily basis to provide high quality beans that make your favourite beverage. Origen works closely with the farmers, creating a connection to their lives and culture which is apparent in the journey from seed to cup.
Top left: Carlos Carvajal (father, who lived on a coffee farm during childhood, and is currently moving back to a coffee farm for good. Bottom left: Paola, Yamid’s wife, Middle: Luis Guitierrez, Top right: Yamid Godoy, Bottom right: Jose Caceres.
How Origen makes a difference.
So, let’s find out how Origen makes a difference and implements fair trade practices.
First of all, Origen gives the farmers a voice, not only do they communicate with the farmers to listen to any concerns that they have, but they also provide recognition through their marketing and products. The co-founders Carlos and Ivan know all their workers and can guarantee that they are of age and willing to cooperate (there is no forced labour or exploitation). Work hours usually commence between 5 and 6am with shifts averaging 8-10 hours, including their one-hour lunch and regular hydration breaks.
Their collaboration with Gonzalo and Arthur, the professional coffee tasters, and roasters, ensures that the right protocols are followed, and the standards are met. They pay 10-15% more than the average wage established by the New York Stock Exchange and have implemented a points system for the farmers so they can purchase up to date equipment or the necessary farming tools needed. Implementing a system like this will help the farmers to follow sustainable practices, conserve energy and water, as well as minimize waste.
By tracking the process from cultivation to exportation, Origen can make sure ethical practices are being followed, resolve any issues or queries, and can work towards creating a better future for their employees.
“Our goal is to motivate current and future generations to keep doing their best to produce high quality coffee beans. We want to build a strong business that allows us to communicate freely with farmers, to let them know that their effort and dedication is appreciated, in Colombia and across the borders.”- Carlos Carvajal Pereira
How to support fairtrade products.
Luckily for us, fairtrade is a growing community that is pushing towards removing exploitation while educating the world about its ethical principles. Like within the coffee industry there are many other sectors working hard to minimize the unfair treatment of workers.
Supporting fair-trade practices and farmers across the globe is easier than you think. By shopping locally, at farmers markets, choosing fair trade products, and spreading awareness, you will make a change that will impact our farmers and livelihoods.
If you’re sitting here wondering how you can make a difference but feeling unsure where to start, try to purchase a few fair-trade items in your grocery shop, or buy sustainable clothing instead of fast fashion. There are also companies like ‘Who Gives a Crap’ and ‘Zero Co’, who use recycled and reusable products, making it easy for you to make the change.
Yes, fairtrade and organic products are more expensive, and it can be hard to support if you have a lower wage. But don’t be disheartened, you can still do your bit! Try to purchase the items gradually, or choose a few items to focus on, these small efforts will go a long way.
It’s about making a conscious effort to think about what you purchase, for example, next time you go to buy clothes ask yourself if you will wear it 30 times. Or when you are on holiday bartering over the $2 bracelet, think about how that costs you nothing, but may put food on their table.
You have the choice in every step you take, and by supporting fair trade products (even if it’s gradually), you will be contributing towards making a change.
If you have had mixed emotions or conflicting views while reading this article, then my job is done. I have teamed up with Origen Coffee House to spread awareness and educate you on the importance of supporting fair trade products.
Written by Grace Rossington
Collaborated with Carlos Carvajal Piera
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