
C.A.F.E. Practices
About (C.A.F.E. Practices)
C.A.F.E. Practices stands for Coffee and Farmer Equity Practices and is a set of sustainable sourcing guidelines developed by Starbucks, the global coffee company. C.A.F.E. Practices aim to ensure the ethical sourcing of coffee beans and promote environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and economic viability within the coffee supply chain.
Here are key aspects of C.A.F.E. Practices:
Ethical Sourcing: C.A.F.E. Practices require coffee suppliers to adhere to responsible and transparent business practices. This includes compliance with local laws, fair treatment of workers, and respect for human rights.
Environmental Stewardship: C.A.F.E. Practices encourage sustainable farming methods that protect the environment. This includes promoting biodiversity, conserving water resources, reducing chemical pesticide use, and managing waste and energy consumption.
Quality Standards: C.A.F.E. Practices emphasize the production of high-quality coffee beans. Coffee suppliers must meet specific quality standards, including the proper handling and processing of coffee cherries, to ensure the delivery of premium coffee to Starbucks.
Farmer Support: The program aims to improve the livelihoods of coffee farmers by providing support and training in sustainable farming practices, productivity enhancement, and community development. It encourages long-term relationships between Starbucks and coffee suppliers to foster shared success.
Third-Party Verification: C.A.F.E. Practices are independently verified through third-party inspections and assessments. This helps ensure the credibility and integrity of the program by providing an objective evaluation of the compliance with the established standards.
By implementing C.A.F.E. Practices, Starbucks aims to create a sustainable coffee supply chain that benefits farmers, protects the environment, and meets the quality expectations of consumers. The program promotes transparency and accountability, allowing Starbucks and its customers to make informed choices and contribute to a more sustainable coffee industry.
It's important to note that C.A.F.E. Practices are specific to Starbucks and are not an industry-wide standard. However, the program has influenced and inspired other coffee companies to develop their own sustainability initiatives and certifications within the coffee industry.