FAIRTRADE
Fairtrade Coffee: Ethical Beans, Exceptional Flavor
At Planet Bean, Fairtrade certification is our foundation—ensuring farmers earn living wages, work in safe conditions, and invest in their communities. Every cup you enjoy supports a more equitable coffee industry.
WHY FAIRTRADE MATTERS
For Farmers & Communities
- Fair Prices – Guaranteed minimums protect against market crashes.
- Community Premiums – Extra funds for schools, healthcare, and clean water.
- Democratic Cooperatives – Farmers collectively decide how to invest profits.
For the Planet
- Shade-Grown & Biodiverse – Our coffee grows under forest canopies, sheltering birds and wildlife.
- Cleaner Waterways – No toxic runoff pollutes rivers or farmer communities.
For Your Cup
- Richer Flavors – Well-paid farmers harvest only ripe cherries.
- Traceable Origins – Know exactly where your beans were grown.
FAIRTRADE VS. CONVENTIONAL COFFEE: THE REAL COST
| Factor | Fairtrade Coffee | Conventional Coffee |
|---|---|---|
| Farmer Income | Living wage + premiums | Often below poverty line |
| Labor Conditions | No child labor, safe workplaces | Unregulated, high risk of exploitation |
| Environmental Rules | Must protect ecosystems | Pesticides/common deforestation |
| Transparency | Fully traceable supply chains | Opaque sourcing |
| Taste Impact | Hand-picked, ripe cherries boost quality | Mass harvesting lowers flavor |
| Your Impact | Direct community support | Profits stay with middlemen |
Our Fairtrade Commitments
- 100% Fairtrade Certified – No exceptions.
- Direct Relationships – We visit cooperatives in Peru, Ethiopia, and Guatemala.
- Beyond Certification – Pay 15-30% above Fairtrade minimums.
How to Spot Ethical Coffee
Look for these labels:
- Fairtrade International
- Fair for Life
- Direct Trade partnerships
We also have a wonderful Fairtrade fundraising program which is great for a variety ofendeavors including schools, sports teams, churches and more.