Celebrate International Coffee Day Responsibly

Celebrate International Coffee Day this September 29. It’s an event that encourages us to celebrate and enjoy one of the world’s most popular beverages and to raise awareness of the important issues surrounding it.

Coffee for our health

Coffee contains an array of antioxidants that protect DNA, lipids, and proteins from the cell-damaging effects of free radicals, which can lead to cardiovascular disease and cancer. Specifically, studies show drinking coffee may reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes and liver cancer.

Another recent study conducted by the National Cancer Institute suggests that coffee drinkers might, on average, live longer than non-coffee drinkers.

Socially conscious coffee

Coffee is typically grown by small family operations in countries such as Brazil, Vietnam, Columbia, Indonesia, and Mexico. Despite coffee being one of the most widely consumed beverages, its farmers often have difficulties earning a sufficient income for themselves and their families. One of the problems farmers face is in navigating the often volatile commodities markets. Many farmers aren’t able to adapt crop yields to fluctuating market prices and often have to settle for prices with which they can scarcely sustain themselves.

Buying fair trade coffee guarantees that farmers were paid a fair price for their product and that they received additional social and economic premiums to help develop their communities and businesses. It also ensures safe working conditions and a commitment to environmental sustainability.

Environmentally conscious coffee

Buying organic and fair trade coffee ensures that the coffee was sourced in the most environmentally friendly ways possible. Eco-conscious coffee offers benefits such as:

• improved soil protection and erosion control
• reduced effects of climate change
• increased bee diversity
• increased biodiversity

Check in at your local coffee shops for special deals and promotions. And of course, when drinking your coffee on-the-go, make sure to take along your reusable cup or mug.