The true cost of this beverage, however, is shocking.
It is estimated that small-land coffee farmers in Latin America, Asia and Africa sell their goods for roughly 24 cents a pound while paying 80 cents a pound to produce their product. They are often paid roughly half the market price, with 50 percent going to middlemen taking advantage of the situation. This leaves farmers in developing nations living in poverty and makes the period between harvests especially difficult.
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Another factor that is often overlooked is the impact coffee has on the environment. Industrial growers often use harmful pesticides that pollute the environment. Deforestation is also common, which results in the destruction of habitat for various bird species.
Possibly the most frightening aspect of this industry is the potential child labor that is involved in harvesting coffee beans. In Guatemala, the daily minimum wage of $3 is often not met, and even when it is, it rarely covers the cost of living for the average family. To harvest the amount of beans necessary to earn this minimum wage, workers often bring their children to help in the fields. Because they are not true employees, these children are not protected under Guatemalan labor laws.
It is incredible to think that one cup of coffee comes at such a high price. Fortunately, it doesn’t have to. Thanks to a growing trend towards Fair Trade Coffee, these environmental and labor abuses are losing momentum. The Fair Trade label indicates a small-land farmer not dependent on hired labor produced the coffee. Furthermore, it ensures the farmer was paid fairly for the goods.
While there are no strict environmental standards the farmer must abide by, pesticides are generally too expensive to use. Additionally, small-scale production prevents the large amounts of deforestation that can result from industrial growers.
When it comes to the individual consumer, supporting Fair Trade couldn’t be easier. Many cafés carry Fair Trade Coffee, and even if they do not serve Fair Trade exclusively, they may very well have it upon request. When shopping for coffee at the grocery store, checking the package for the Fair Trade label ensures your money is going to the right places.
Coffee isn’t the only Fair Trade commodity. Chocolate, tea, bananas and other goods all have Fair Trade varieties available. With a few conscientious decisions, anyone can help countless people start their mornings off right.
Lexie Krell is a senior at Colony High School.
Comments
5 comment(s)Stephen R. wrote on Apr 4, 2008 8:21 PM:
Lexie Krell wrote on Apr 1, 2008 9:59 PM:
Concerned resident wrote on Nov 29, 2007 5:09 PM:
TTOSBT wrote on Nov 28, 2007 9:54 PM:
dude wrote on Nov 27, 2007 3:17 PM: