Sustainable Tea: Brewing A Greener Cup

Weekly Tip - Sustainable Tea: Brewing A Greener Cup

Hey there, Play It Green community, have you ever thought about sustainable tea?

As tea lovers, we all know how comforting a warm cup of tea can be. But have you ever considered the environmental impact of your tea consumption? That’s where sustainable tea comes in. Sustainable tea is all about producing tea in a way that is environmentally responsible and socially just. By choosing sustainable tea, we can reduce our carbon footprint, support ethical practices, and have a positive impact on the planet and its people.

In this week’s article, we’ll dive into the world of sustainable tea. How to choose sustainable tea products and the impact of non-sustainable tea on the environment and local communities. So, join us for a cuppa and let’s learn more about the importance of sustainable tea!

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Sustainable Tea: A History

Tea is one of the most beloved beverages in the world, with a rich and fascinating history dating back thousands of years. The story of tea begins in ancient China, where legend has it that a tea leaf accidentally fell into a cup of hot water, creating the first cup of tea. Tea soon became a popular beverage in China and spread to other parts of the world, including Japan and India.

Tea played a significant role in history, from being used as a currency to being the centre of political disputes. The British famously introduced tea to their colonies, including India, where they began large-scale tea production. Today, tea is enjoyed in many different forms and has become an important part of cultures around the world.

Did you know that tea is the most widely consumed beverage in the world after water? Or that the world’s largest tea-producing countries are China, India, and Kenya? Additionally, tea contains antioxidants and other compounds that have been linked to various health benefits.

Sustainable Tea Tea originated in China where it remains a big part of its culture and customs
Tea originated in China where it remains a big part of its culture and customs

So, let’s raise a cup to the rich and fascinating history of tea, and continue to enjoy this wonderful beverage for generations to come. Keep reading to learn more about the environmental impact of non-sustainable tea.

Sustainable Tea: Environmental Impact

Tea is one of the most widely consumed beverages in the world. But non-sustainable tea production can have a significant environmental impact. Tea cultivation requires large amounts of water and energy. Some estimates suggest it can take up to 4,000 litres of water to make just 1KG of tea.

Furthermore, the use of pesticides and fertilizers can lead to soil and water pollution. In fact, according to a report by the World Wildlife Fund, tea production is responsible for approximately 4% of global agricultural greenhouse gas emissions.  Additionally, the transportation and packaging of tea products can lead to increased carbon emissions.

Deforestation is another issue associated with non-sustainable tea production. Forests are often cleared to make room for tea plantations. This leads to habitat destruction and loss of biodiversity. The tea industry has also been linked to human rights abuses, including the use of child labour and poor working conditions.

Sustainable Tea Estimates suggest it takes around 4000 litres of water to produce 1KG of tea
Estimates suggest it takes around 4000 litres of water to produce 1KG of tea

As consumers, we can make more sustainable choices when purchasing tea products. By being aware of the environmental impact of non-sustainable tea production and making more eco-friendly choices, we can enjoy our favourite beverage. All while minimizing harm to the planet. If you want to know what to look for when it comes to sustainable tea, the next section is perfect for you!

Sustainable Tea: Things to Consider

When it comes to choosing sustainable tea, there are a few things to keep in mind to make an eco-friendly choice. One of the most important factors is the use of pesticides and fertilizers in tea cultivation. Look for teas that are organic or grown using sustainable and natural methods.

Another key factor is the social and ethical practices of the tea company. Look for Fair Trade certifications, which ensure that workers are paid fairly and working conditions are safe and fair. Additionally, choosing teas from companies that prioritise environmental sustainability. Things such as using renewable energy or reducing carbon emissions can also have a positive impact.

Packaging is another important consideration when it comes to sustainable tea. Look for teas that are sold in recyclable or compostable packaging. Or, buy loose-leaf tea in bulk to reduce waste from packaging. It’s also important to consider the origin of the tea. Choosing teas that are grown locally or regionally can help reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation.

Sustainable Tea Buying tea that is certified Fair Trade ensures farmers are paid fairly
Buying tea that is certified Fair Trade ensures farmers are paid fairly

By making more sustainable choices when it comes to tea, we can support companies that prioritise environmental and social responsibility. We can also help reduce the impact of tea production on the planet. Read on to find out about some of our favourite sustainable tea brands. As ever you can use a discount to save money on your sustainable journey.

Sustainable Tea: Some of Our Favourites

Bird & Blend

Bird & Blend is a UK-based tea company that prioritises sustainability in every aspect of its business. Founders Krisi and Mike started the company from scratch, packing tea in their bedroom and attending markets. Now, with a team and multiple retail stores, Bird & Blend is a leader in tea innovation and, like Play It Green is a Certified B Corp. Sustainability has been at the heart of the company’s ethos and values from day one. From leaf to cup, every part of the tea’s journey is designed to minimize its impact on the planet.

Sustainable Tea Bird & Blend Chocolate Digestive Tea
Bird & Blend Chocolate Digestive Tea

Teapigs

Teapigs is a tea company founded in 2006 to revolutionize the world of tea. They wanted to make it exciting, delicious, and different from what was available in the market. Today, their mission is the same, to offer whole-leaf, all-natural, and great-tasting tea. They have won over 157 Great Taste Awards and have been voted best brand seven times by independent retailers. They source their tea, herbs, berries, and spices sustainably and use packaging that’s better for the environment. Teapigs is also a proud B Corp committed to doing business in a better way.

Sustainable Tea Teapigs liquorice and peppermint tea
Teapigs liquorice and peppermint tea

Hampstead Organic

Hampstead Organic is a UK-based tea company committed to ethical and delicious organic teas. Founder Kiran created the company when she moved from India to the UK and couldn’t find great-tasting tea without pesticides or plastics. Since then, Hampstead Organic has become a leading organic tea brand and has won multiple awards for taste and quality. The company is proud to be continuously assessed as ‘The Most Ethical Tea Brand’ by the Ethical Consumer. Hampstead Organic’s tea gardens are biodynamic, the teas are Fairtrade, and the majority of the packaging is plastic-free.

Sustainable Tea Hampstead Organic English Breakfast Tea
Hampstead Organic English Breakfast Tea

Best of all, if you want to try Hampstead Organic’s sustainable tea, you can save 15% on your first order. Simply head over to their website and sign up for their mailing list and you will receive a discount code to use!

Sustainable Tea: That’s a Wrap

Choosing sustainable tea can make a significant difference to the environment, as well as the lives of the farmers who produce it. By selecting teas that are organic, Fairtrade, and ethically sourced, we can ensure that our cup of tea is not only delicious but also supports a more sustainable future. Companies like Bird & Blend, Hampstead Tea, and Teapigs are leading the way in sustainable tea production and inspiring others to follow in their footsteps. By making small changes in our daily routine, such as choosing a sustainable tea brand, we can all make a positive impact on the planet. So, let’s raise a cup of sustainable tea and support the Play It Green community in creating a brighter future for all.

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