Fair Trade coffee has gained increasing popularity due to its commitment to ethical business practices in the industry. This includes fair pricing for farmers, which allows them to support their families. Furthermore, this type of coffee often supports shade-grown techniques which protect the environment and reduce pesticide use for greater quality coffee that benefits both planet and farmer. When purchasing Fair Trade options from brands they should also consider other business practices as well as giving back initiatives.

Equal Exchange was founded in 1986 as a worker-owned co-op that strives to establish long-term trading partnerships that are economically just and environmentally sound. Their core philosophy is that when everyone is treated fairly, we can work together toward creating a more just and sustainable world. They specialize in working directly with small farmer cooperatives and providing them with resources they need to realize their dreams; programs include women’s leadership development in Guatemala, ecotourism projects in Nicaragua and savings and loan groups in Mexico.

Fair Trade certified coffee from their organic farms comes with an assortment of roasts and sizes – from whole bean to ground fresh coffee – so customers can customize each cup according to taste. Their dedication to sustainability goes beyond ethical trading of organic beans; bio fuels are used in their facilities and water conservation initiatives are implemented regularly.

Rise Up Coffee was founded by Tom Cureton in Maryland with a passion for serving their farmers, dedicated to offering customers the highest-quality cup of java possible using organic and Fair Trade ingredients in all their blends. They specialize in small batch roasting to achieve optimal brew, offering various locations across Maryland with individual character. Rise Up’s team believes their love for their coffee and community they serve drives them forward in creating positive change for all involved.