The North American Sustainability Awards were launched in 2016 in order to celebrate the hard work put forth globally across the industry to further the goals of sustainability. It is guided by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

The purpose of these awards are to:

Celebrate the work that goes above and beyond pure business metrics, to improve the health of the industry, the environment in which it operates and the people whom work in it or are associated with it
To share these efforts with the tea industry in order to build a shared responsibility, support and knowledge for the state of the industry
To inspire others to replicate the “above and beyond” attitude of recipients in their own environments to further the efforts of delivering tea to the status of Hero crop.

Industry Initiatives

2025

Business with a Human Face (WINNER)

Amalgamated Plantations Private Limited

The “Business with a Human Face” initiative puts people at the center of the tea industry, combining sustainability with community well-being. From regenerative farming and clean energy to healthcare, women’s empowerment, and digital inclusion, it impacts thousands of workers and small growers—creating shared value, restoring the environment, and building lasting resilience.

Special Needs Education Project (WINNER)

Eastern Produce Kenya Limited

The Special Needs Education Project by Eastern Produce Kenya supports inclusive learning for children with disabilities by improving infrastructure, providing classroom and boarding furniture, instructional materials, sanitation, and nutritional support. Since 2018, it has reached 733 learners across seven schools, creating safer, more dignified, and accessible spaces for education. The project not only addresses physical and resource gaps but also reduces stigma and builds community support for inclusive education.

Project Phoenix

Harrisons Malayalam Ltd.

The Harrisons Malayalam Ltd. Sustainability Project aims to create a resilient and inclusive tea business model that supports 5,000 employees, 25,000 dependents, and over 1.1 million community members. Its scope spans climate-smart agriculture, biodiversity protection, renewable energy, and welfare programs in health, education, and women’s empowerment. Through the CEO’s Sustainability Award and collaborations with small growers, the initiative fosters accountability, cross-learning, and long-term community and environmental resilience.

Go Green Energy – Sustainable Shift Towards Renewable Energy (RUNNER-UP)

Horana Plantations PLC

The Horana Plantations PLC “Go Green Energy” Project focuses on shifting tea production from fossil fuels to renewable energy through solar, hydro, and biomass initiatives. Its scope covers estate-wide energy transition, carbon reduction, and biochar-based carbon credit programs, with the ambitious goal of producing carbon-neutral tea by 2030. Beyond cost and efficiency gains, the project strengthens climate resilience and creates a model for sustainable agribusiness.

She Essentia – Empowering Women and Sustaining Communities

Horana Plantations PLC

The She-Essentia Women Empowerment Project empowers plantation women by producing and distributing reusable sanitary napkins, improving menstrual health, and reducing plastic waste. Its scope extends to training and employment, creating sustainable livelihoods, and breaking cultural stigmas—strengthening both community well-being and environmental sustainability.

Kelani Valley Plantations PLC

The Kelani Valley Protectors Initiative safeguards the Kelani River through reforestation, waste management, water conservation, and community engagement. Its scope combines ecosystem restoration with health, livelihood, and climate resilience, creating a model for sustainable river management.

Nepal Tea Revival Project (WINNER)

Nepal Tea Collective, Inc.

The Nepal Tea Revival Project empowers farmers by breaking exploitative supply chains and connecting them directly to global consumers. Its scope includes fair wages, revenue sharing, organic farming support, and educational scholarships—lifting communities out of poverty while preserving Nepali tea’s identity. By 2050, it aims to impact over one million farmers, creating a scalable model for ethical and sustainable agriculture.

From Field to Cup, with Purpose (RUNNER-UP)

Pluck Tea Inc

The Pluck Tea Sustainability Initiative integrates environmental and social responsibility across its operations by replacing plastics with compostable alternatives, upcycling food by-products, and producing locally to cut carbon emissions. Its scope also includes ethical farm partnerships in Canada, Japan, and Rwanda, aligning with UN SDGs to reduce waste, empower farmers, and protect ecosystems.

Solara – Sustainability in Every Step

Spire Tea

The SOLARA Project empowers schoolchildren and communities in Misiones, Argentina, through education, health, and environmental action. Its scope spans sustainability workshops in schools, oral hygiene and nutrition programs, denim upcycling into 1,000 backpacks, and planting 4,000 trees—building lasting community resilience.

Towards Net-Zero: Designing Sri Lanka’s First Climate-Smart Tea Factory

Talawakelle Tea Estates PLC

The project’s scope is to establish Sri Lanka’s first climate-smart tea factory that minimizes carbon emissions through renewable energy, energy and water efficiency, and waste reduction. It aims to set a benchmark for sustainable tea manufacturing while strengthening resilience and competitiveness in global markets. By combining innovation with climate responsibility, the factory becomes a model for the future of the tea industry.

Valmitran Foundation

Valmitran SA

The project’s scope is to uplift rural communities in Misiones, Argentina, through health, education, sports, and community support initiatives. By sponsoring hospitals, partnering with rural schools, promoting women’s and youth sports, and aiding vulnerable groups, it fosters social inclusion and well-being. With structured goals and impact measurement through Fundación Valmitran, the program creates sustainable, replicable models aligned with the UN SDGs

Building Regenerative Resilience in Guatemalan Cardamom

Yogi Tea

The project’s scope is to create a sustainable cardamom supply chain in Guatemala by combining agroforestry, clean technology, and community development. It promotes biodiversity through planting 20,000 trees, reduces carbon emissions with renewable drying technologies, and improves farmer livelihoods through sanitation access, fair wages, and training. By linking climate action with social equity, the project offers a replicable model for sustainable spice sourcing.

Ahmad Tea

Ahmad Tea recognised the socio-economic challenges in Assam, where women and children in tea-picking communities are especially vulnerable. Many women tea pickers face malnutrition, contributing to high maternal and infant mortality rates, while children suffer from limited support, making them susceptible to trafficking, child labour, and early marriage. In response, Ahmad Tea partnered with the Children In Need Institute (CINI), a local NGO with over 40 years of experience in community empowerment, to tackle these critical issues. Together, they conducted a human rights impact assessment, which highlighted the urgent need for interventions in Assam’s tea gardens. In 2019, Ahmad Tea and CINI launched the Child-Friendly Community (CFC) model, designed to improve health, nutrition, and overall well-being in vulnerable tea gardens. This initiative fosters community ownership and sustainable development by engaging local governments and tea garden management. It also seeks to address gender-based violence, discrimination, and inadequate access to services, with the aim of creating Child-Friendly and Gender-Just Tea Gardens. To date, the partnership has supported over 1,500 women with improved maternity services, nourished more than 2,000 children, and provided better access to healthcare for over 15,800 community members. Ahmad Tea hopes to expand this model to other tea gardens, contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals and uplifting marginalised communities.

Bogawantalawa Climate Positive Journey

Bogawantalawa Tea Estates PLC

Bogawantalawa Tea Estates PLC recognised the high carbon footprint (CFP) inherent in the tea production process and set a goal not only to achieve carbon neutrality but to surpass it by offsetting more emissions than they generate. This initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 13: Climate Action. The company implemented several key initiatives, including the use of 100% renewable energy, energy-efficient technologies, organic farming practices, forestry programmes to enhance carbon sequestration, and water and waste management systems. Additionally, they adopted climate-smart agriculture and regenerative farming techniques to improve soil health, biodiversity, and sustainability across their tea estates. In 2017, Bogawantalawa became the world’s first tea company certified for producing uncompensated Carbon Neutral Teas and operating Carbon Neutral Facilities. Building on this achievement, in 2019, they furthered their sustainability efforts and became the first company globally to offer uncompensated Climate Positive Teas from Climate Positive Facilities, contributing a net positive impact on the environment. Through these initiatives, Bogawantalawa Tea Estates leads the way in sustainable tea production, aiming for a climate-positive future.

What A Good Education Means

Eastern Produce Kenya Limited

In Kenya, although education is free, barriers such as poor infrastructure, lack of learning materials, and socio-economic challenges limit access to quality education. EPK responded to these issues by initially establishing schools for the children of its employees on its estates and later extending support to surrounding communities. EPK’s continued investment in education aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 4, focusing on inclusive and quality education and lifelong learning. By collaborating with government ministries and local communities, EPK aims to provide every child with access to quality education, recognising it as essential for social stability, health, livelihoods, and economic growth. EPK’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme prioritises education, which accounts for 70% of community appeals. Led by senior management, the CSR committee has implemented initiatives such as supporting Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) by donating classroom furniture, storybooks, and water systems. EPK also promotes gender equality by providing life skills education and menstrual products to 2,000 adolescent girls and building science laboratories in junior secondary schools. Furthermore, the company supports Special Needs Education (SNE) by supplying learning materials, bedding, and food, ensuring inclusivity for all children. EPK’s educational investments reflect its commitment to creating equitable opportunities and contributing meaningfully to society.

Achieving Remarkable Carbon Sequestration Milestone by Goodricke’s Darjeeling Gardens (WINNER)

Goodricke Group Ltd.

India’s manufacturing sector is a major contributor to carbon emissions, primarily due to the reliance on fossil fuels for energy, industrial processes, and the production of materials such as cement, steel, and chemicals. In response to growing concerns over environmental impact, Goodricke Group Limited developed its Greenhouse Gas (GHG) inventory following the GHG Protocol Corporate Accounting and Reporting Standard. The company commissioned SGS India Private Limited to conduct an independent verification of its GHG emissions for Scope 1 and Scope 2 categories at its Darjeeling location, covering the reporting period from 1st January to 31st December 2022, in line with ISO 14064-3:2019 requirements. The verification of GHG emissions plays a crucial role in ensuring regulatory compliance, improving corporate reputation, and driving environmental performance. It also informs investment decisions, contributing to global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. Goodricke’s Darjeeling tea gardens emitted 1,732 tCO2e across Scope 1 and Scope 2 categories, but they also sequestered 11,026 tons of CO2 in their biomass over the assessment year. This means the tea gardens operated in a carbon-negative capacity, with a net absorption of 9,294 tCO2, highlighting the positive environmental impact of their operations.

Healing One Forest, One Community and You, One Flavourful Sip at a time (WINNER)

Kaley Natural Farms

The company’s philosophy is rooted in ethical decision-making, prioritising harmony with nature over short-term profit. It emphasises that businesses should operate with good intentions and actions, ensuring that profit is earned in a sustainable, responsible manner over the long term. As part of this commitment, the company prioritises reforestation, soil preservation, enrichment through natural practices, and wildlife protection. Their focus is on cultivating forest trees on agricultural land and restoring ecosystems, reflecting their dedication to environmental stewardship. This approach is embodied in initiatives such as the “Healing One Forest” project, which involves transforming a 25-hectare plantation into a Forest Eco Garden by growing forest and endemic fruit trees. Additionally, through the “Healing One Community” programme, the company has supported the Kotapola Rural Hospital with medical supplies and equipment, built an eight-classroom facility for Kotapola Junior School, and launched educational and entrepreneurial development programmes. These efforts, including the provision of nutritious herbal porridge for 190 schoolchildren, align with 11 of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, showcasing the company’s broader contribution to environmental and social well-being.

THE YOHAZÁ BIOLOGICAL CORRIDOR (WINNER)

Las Marias S.A.

The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for Las Marías Group covered approximately 32,000 hectares, designating 3,800 hectares for conservation and establishing a 1,500-hectare Biological Corridor, which includes a 280-hectare High Conservation Value Forest (HCV1). The EIA aimed to identify potential negative impacts of the forestry project, propose mitigation strategies, and anticipate adverse scenarios at any stage. Additionally, it introduced an Environmental Monitoring and Control Program, using indicators to track environmental changes and ensure the project’s sustainable management. The evaluation was structured into five levels, ranging from analysing functional subsystems and classifying fields by landscape units to assessing potential environmental impacts and focusing on biodiversity recovery in protected areas. Las Marías is deeply committed to sustainable development, safeguarding over 10% of its land for conservation, including the High Conservation Value Forest. The project has recorded 36 herpetofauna species, 88 mammal species, and 148 bird species within its area, with 40-50% of these species listed as threatened by international organisations. This highlights the significance of Las Marías’ efforts in preserving critical habitats and promoting biodiversity, supporting a wide range of wildlife in a protected and managed landscape. The project’s comprehensive approach ensures both environmental sustainability and the protection of vital ecosystems.

Kibabet Wetlands Rehabilitation and Restoration (RUNNER-UP)

Eastern Produce Kenya Limited

Wetlands are essential for freshwater-related ecosystems and sustain many terrestrial life forms, signiﬁcantly contributing to a unique biodiversity with their complexity and diversity of species. With signiﬁcant loss of wetland areas due to expansion of commercial forestry and agriculture, EPK took the initiative for wetland conservation and restoration at the Kibabet Wetlands, which had been encroached by neighbouring community members for agricultural use and livestock grazing.

EPK targeted and set up relevant plans to decrease the risk of losing the valuable wetland and other related beneﬁts, including wildlife habitat, and to help achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The restoration process ensured that water shortages for vulnerable populations downstream was addressed. The ability of the restored Kibabet wetlands to slow down ﬂowing water has allowed the deposition of suspended particles and solutions for sedimentation. This has also allowed plants and microbial organisms to reduce the amount of harmful substances subjected to further transportation thus lessening the impact on vulnerable ecosystems and populations.

Renewable Energy Revolution (WINNER)

Talawakelle Tea Estates

In the past, the company’s 15 tea-processing factories relied on conventional energy sources, including electricity from national grid and fossil fuels, to power our machinery. Annually, the factories consumed more than 5869 MW of grid electricity and more than 1.5 million liters of fossil fuels, contributing to a total carbon footprint of more than 10000 tons of CO2 equivalent. This came out as a burden issue, both in terms of high production expenses and high carbon emissions.

Recognizing the significance of energy management, Talawakelle Tea Estates PLC confronted this challenge head-on in 2004. The management made a pivotal decision to gradually shift towards renewable energy sources, aiming for self-sufficiency in energy clean and renewable . Additionally, the company embarked on an annual mission to gauge its carbon footprint, setting an ambitious target of reducing it by 10% each year. Through innovative initiatives such as Biomass, Hydro Power, and Solar projects, the company has not only tackled key sustainability objectives but has also actively contributed to the realms of affordable and clean energy, as well as climate action.

Sustainable Projects for Planting and Implantation of Native Species for Recovery of Slopes, Wetlands and Water Causes (RUNNER-UP)

Valmitran

Valmitran is a company located in Dos de Mayo, Province of Misiones. They detected the need for the protection of slopes and wetland located on farms that belong to their tea suppliers (small producers). They implemented ONE ACTION to address the mentioned protection, which also contributes with at least three SDG goals.

In 2023, Valmitran started building a nursery garden with recycled wood and pallets. In addition, post consumer PET bottles for each plant were used. The soil fertilizer is obtained from organic waste from the tea process. The seeds are mostly obtained from the community and its tea suppliers. This guarantees that they are involved in the project and fully understand the importance and the positive impact.

Crop Diversification and Regenerative Agriculture in Rwanda (WINNER)

Yogi

There are two interrelated problems addressed by our intervention, both of which are widespread and systemic. The first is poverty in the developing world, particularly in agricultural regions. The second is the depletion, via runoff, erosion, or intensive farming, of productive topsoil. While both these challenges are widespread enough to be understood as nearly universal, we were able to address a specific manifestation thanks to a direct and close working relationship with one of our supplier farms.

Already working with a wonderful partner, Sorwathe, and purchasing organic teas from them. By maintaining Choice’s existing demand for Sorwathe’s black tea, Yogi invested in a project to establish lemongrass plants alongside tea bushes. To guarantee the demand necessary to make lemongrass farming viable, a pledge to have the Yogi tea line purchase whatever lemongrass these farmers were able to produce. Our involvement consists of purchasing the initial plants, providing on-the-ground agronomic support and farmer training, and ensuring the project’s self-sufficiency over the long term by constructing a lemongrass nursery on the premises.

Yogi adopted a simple market-based model but erased the start-up costs for the host farm. Providing the initial plants, the training to grow, harvest, and propagate them, a market was created for the resulting materials. Thanks to Yogi’s long-term supplier commitments they were able to minimize farmers’ risk exposure, streamline the project process, and ensure the sustainability of the intervention itself.

Strengthening the Future Generation Organic Vegetable Gardening Project

Bogawantalawa

In developing countries, about 10 million children die before the age of 5 and over 200 million do not reach their full human potential. 88 million of them live in South East Asia (SEA)–resulting in an estimated 20% loss in adult productivity per a country. Tea workers in Sri Lanka receive close to a living wage, however, low levels of education and lack of awareness result in poor nutritional health for infants. Furthermore, pregnant mothers and lactating women who do not receive the appropriate nutrition will have malnourished children, creating a vicious cycle and leaving a huge impact on society.

Child development officers initiate to prepare good nutrition meals for the children in day time at the CDC through this organic vegetable garden project.
Mothers received safe and quality environment to feed their infants within the CDC along with comfortable.
Parents has enhanced their enthusiasm to pay their fullest attention to maintain, protect and re grow these organic vegetable gardens to keep it sustain.
Children have improved their knowledge through educational toys like reading English words, counting in English and etc.
Most of the pregnant mothers in estates, received free clinics from the project partners of Save the Children International.
Estate health staff could improve their knowledge on vegetation and received weighting scales as a help of their clinics.

C.A.M.P (Child-friendly Areas for Meaningful Positivitea)

DAVIDsTEA x Ethical Tea Partnership

C.A.M.P. DAVIDsTEA x Ethical Tea Partnership provides a nurturing and secure environment for the children of tea farmers and workers—who are normally left behind during summer holidays—to learn and play near their parents. This pilot runs throughout summer 2022 at the Zhejiang Kainong Trading Co (KN) facility in Zhejiang Province, China. The initial scope was approximately 50 children; however, due to COVID-19 restrictions the maximum number is set to 30. The program’s curriculum ranges from science and emotional development to mental health awareness and nutrition. Nutritious meals are also provided to those attending. The project adopts a participatory approach, and the opening hours will be the same as the parents’ working hours. Parents are able to join their children for activities during the day, allowing them time to bond. The program will also provide women’s empowerment training on parent-child communication and sexual harassment as well as nutrition and well-being.

Homework Facility South Africa

DAVIDsTEA

Our partner in South Africa, Johan Ferreira, identified a lack of a facility for children of farm workers to do their homework and study. We decided that, together, we would contribute to building a homework facility. On Tuesday November 24, during Giving Week 2020, we raised funds for the facility by donating 5 % of proceeds of all loose leaf tea sales to the project. Soil preparation for the building began in March 2021. In July 2021, the foundation and building structure were completed. In December 2021, the building equipped with a small library, bathroom, kitchen and media area was finished. By Spring 2022, the building was in use, furnished with desks and a media area including computers and a printer. Initially, we thought the facility would serve only school children; however, as the project moved along, we noticed that this facility could also benefit other small children and serve as a daycare centre in the mornings and homework facility in the afternoons.

Our South African Homework facility, located in Clanwilliam district, provides a safe and inclusive space for children of rooibos tea farmers to study and gather. The facility receives five preschoolers in the morning and are looked after by a caregiver, and six school children utilize the space after school. This facility is equipped with a small library, bathroom, kitchen and media centre that includes desks, computers and a printer. As the project moves forward, our partner is planning to have a part-time teacher available so students have even more support.

Together we sip: Manoomin Maple (WINNER)

DAVIDsTEA x Tea Horse

As a non-Indigenous Canadian brand and company, it is important for us to recognize Canada’s colonial history and work towards reconciliation. We have a responsibility to prioritize diversity, inclusion, and equity, and amplify Indigenous voices and their businesses. As an ally, it is important to educate ourselves on the true history and listen to Indigenous experiences to fully understand how we can best move forward.

To address this complex issue, we took a multi-layered approach that consisted of a) educating our employees through the 4 Seasons of Reconciliation course in partnership with First Nations University of Canada, and b) partnering with an Indigenous-owned company to custom develop a blend, Manoomin Maple, that supports Indigenous communities by giving 10% of proceeds to David Suzuki Institute’s (DSI’s) Reconciling Ways of Knowing program.

We are thrilled to support the Indigenous community by contributing 10% of the proceeds of Manoomin Maple to the DSI’s Reconciling Ways of Knowing Program. This Indigenous-led program facilitates conversations between Indigenous Peoples (and their governments) and Canadians (and their governments) to work together to include Indigenous voices and knowledge. It recognizes that a nation-to-nation relationship is far more collaborative than a government-to-government relationship; it is a relationship between the Peoples and their ways of being and knowing, recognizing that each is different in its ways of being and knowing, and that neither is superior or inferior to the other.

Nepal Clean Water

DAVIDsTEA x Jun Chiyabari Tea Garden

Access to clean drinking water is an issue for many tea growing communities and their surrounding areas. One of our partners, Jun Chiyabari Tea Garden, informed us of the need for clean drinking water in government schools in the surrounding areas close to the garden in Dhankuta district in Nepal. These facilities lack access to clean drinking water, which negatively affects the lives of both the students and the staff of the school. We decided to join forces to address this issue to positively impact the lives of the community in Dhankuta.

During Giving Week 2020, we raised funds for our Nepal Water Project in partnership with Jun Chiyabari Tea Garden. Initially, the goal was to provide clean drinking water to three schools. The process began by scouting water filtration companies in Nepal, to identify the right fit. Throughout this process, we had open communication and our partners kept us abreast of the situation. SmartPaani was selected as the right choice for their experience in large clean drinking water projects. Jun Chiyabari Tea Garden decided to match our contribution to increase our impact, and now the scope of the project encompasses four schools, one of which has two buildings.

Initially, the goal was to provide drinking water to three government schools in Nepal, positively impacting the lives of approximately 2,630 students and 100 teachers and staff. When Jun Chiyabari Tea Garden generously decided to match our contributions, we were able to achieve greater impact! Now the scope of the project encompasses four schools, one of which has two buildings. The project was completed just in time for the start of the 2021-2022 school year, making clean water accessible to over 3,200 people.

Shujaa – A Positive Parenting Programme

Eastern Produce Kenya Ltd.

We needed a way to engage the children and a way to improve the relationship of parents and children. There was a lack of connection between parents and their children, leading to domestic strife and sibling disagreements.

SHUJAA; a positive parenting programme, that has powerfully shaped our working communities, by enhancing productivity, good health and mental well-being, reduced inequalities and built resilience. Our Field Educators (Considered as Social Workers) were trained on Facilitating Positive parenting skills training. These were then translated into 14-weeks – 2 hours per week, training sessions for parents and their teenagers.

SHUJAA programme is a lifeline to emotionally healthy, responsible and empowered families, today and in the future. This is because, when families bond and bring to the table the day’s challenges, their abilities to deal and cope with the challenges is strengthened, as well as their support systems being strengthened.

The current impact felt as a result of the programme is stable families, school attendance and retention as well as responsibility both in school and at home. Most importantly is the leadership aspect that parents and teachers have observed in adolescents who participate in the SHUJAA positive parenting programme.

Tabasamu – A Menstrual Health and Hygiene Programme

Eastern Produce Kenya Ltd.

TABASAMU (Swahili for SMILE) is a menstrual health and hygiene program born out of the need to give women and adolescent girls a platform to:

Gain accurate and factual information on menstrual health and hygiene.
Bust myths and misconceptions around menstrual health and hygiene.
Get access to menstrual health and hygiene commodities.
Gain confidence in dealing and coping with menstrual health and hygiene challenges

Every workplace has set up Tabasamu dispensers, to ensure that the products are available at any given time. This programme has created a safe socio-cultural work environment enabling both men and women at the workplace enjoy gender equality and enjoy their capacity to talk openly about menstruation and empowerment.

This programme has created a safe socio-cultural work environment enabling both men and women at the workplace enjoy gender equality and enjoy their capacity to talk openly about menstruation and empowerment.

Making Goodricke’s Operations “TB Free” by 2025

Goodricke

In 1993, the WHO declared TB as a global emergency. Although TB control activities have been in implementation in the country for more than 50 years, it continues to remain a major public health issue. Recognising TB as a critical public health challenge, Goodricke Group voluntarily took a pledge in October 2019 to make the Group TB Free by 2025 as an initiative under UN SDG 3.

Goodricke did not have to reinvent the process as policies and procedures to end TB was already well laid down by WHO and the Government of India had revitalized the erstwhile National TB Programme as Revised National TB Control Programme (RNTCP) in the same year.

Goodricke’s program has grown into a large scale well-designed holistic model. Training of staff, awareness generation activities amongst the high-risk groups. Active case finding, contact screening, early diagnosis & free treatment supported with counselling and follow-ups with close linkages with the National TB Program. Non-workers residing in the gardens are also included in their TB elimination program.

Around 13,469 cases where screened in 2021.
4154 were tested for TB in 2021 & 280 cases were found Positive.
Around 35,266 cases where screened in 2022 (Up to July’22).
9493 were tested for TB in 2022 & 299 cases were found Positive.
MDR Cases this year – 5

Clean Water and Sanitation

Hidellana Tea Factory PVT Ltd.

Presently, the large proportion of people without sustainable access to safe drinking water and basic sanitation suffer in their lives of Tea plantation sector. It is not ensured the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for rural poor in vulnerable situation. Drinking water and Sanitation access is key to disease prevention. Diarrhea alone is responsible for the deaths of number of people every year including children under the age five mostly in the tea growing hilly areas in the Ratnapura region.

The program consists of: construction of water supply system to school children and washroom facilities at a number of schools, implementation of health clinics, and medical facilities.

The proportion of the target population (80%) that use an improved
drinking water source. The proportion of the target population (90%) that use an improved sanitation facility.

Rooftop Solar PV Bundle Project (RUNNER-UP)

Horana Plantation

Solar Power, a clean renewable resource with zero-emission, has got tremendous potential energy that can be harnessed using a variety of devices. With recent developments, solar energy harnessing systems using solar Photo Voltaic (PV) are readily and cost-effectively available for industrial and domestic use with the added advantage of minimum maintenance. Solar PV systems are made financially viable with recent government tax incentives & rebates.

The exploitation of the abundant solar energy resources available in our country, therefore, being accorded a high priority by the Ministry of Renewable Energy under the initiative of “Soorya Bala Sangramaya”. The Horana Plantations PLC has come forward to support Solar PV based Power Plants in a big way throughout the country with a host of fiscal incentives and readily available spaces.

Considering the solar energy potential available, Horana Plantations PLC is proposed to consider the total of 967 KWp existing Grid-connected Roof Top Solar PV Power Plants located at Upcot and Lindula region, for adapting to carbon crediting considering the carbon emission reduction (CER) potentiality.

This renewable energy generation facility is able to reduce the contribution from thermal electricity generation to meet the electricity demand. Unlike in thermal power plants, this project is positively contributing to the electricity demand without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

Promoting Good Health and Wellness amongst Tea Communities

Indian Tea Association

The ITA represents 450 tea estates spread across Assam and West Bengal. These two states account for more than 80% of the Indian production. Identified issues in the following areas: Women’s health and well being and gender equality, freedom, peace and security, domestic stability, respect for human rights including the right to development and finally, climate action covering protection of the environment and bio-diversity of the region.

ITA engaged in partnerships with renowned international NGOs such as UNICEF and Global Alliance on Improved Nutrition (GAIN), as well as worked with other government and non-government institutions such as Tea Board of India, Swachh Bharat Mission, the International Labour Organisation on occupations worker health and safety issues. The ITA and Solidarid are intensely engaged in improving the overall standards of the small tea growers in Assam. Trainings on good practices on agriculture and general well being are being imparted to them through their respective organisations.

Impacts have been identified in the following areas: health and hygiene, nutrition, womens’ empowerment and education.

ITO EN Used Tea Leaf Recycling

ITO EN

ITO EN has been an industry leader in environmental and social sustainability since first established in 1966. From being the first in the Japanese beverage industry to be company wide- ISO 14001 certified in 2009 to developing the Tea Producing Regional Development Project to support the preservation and sustainability of Japan’s agricultural tea farming.

The company has developed a proprietary recycling method for using used tea leaves from the brewing process, creating a environmental synthetic resin used to make eco-friendly products such as public benches, household goods and construction material. Collaborating with the community, ITO EN has synergized with local manufacturers to innovate new products. As an example, transforming 49,000 tons of used tea leaves into 50 million cardboard boxes for its own products annually.

This initiative has helped educate the importance of recycling waste into a new and useful product. A unique product chain that is proprietary to the company’s production process.

The USED TEA LEAF RECYCLING program is not only an innovative environmental initiative but also has a positive social impact, as it increases awareness of the precious resources of our global environment and embracing a mindset of recycle-reuse-reduce.

Establishing a Business Mode Where Nature, Agriculture, Communities, Consumers and Economics Co-exist (WINNER)

Kaley Tea

The program consisted of multiple intiatives: Preserving the 23 acre rainforest from illegal logging and other intrusions;; Converting the 25 acres of cultivated land to a forest eco-system where, biodiversity, biomass, multiple agricultural crops co-exist. Cultivating regeneratively and organically. Developing and producing a range of unique premium quality products from this single garden to capture the healing goodness of the forest and unique flavours of the terroir. Harvesting only high-quality produce e.g., tea leaves, to deliver premium quality products. Handcrafting teas in very small quantities with the expertise of Artisans to enhance quality and flavour.

Reserving the 23-acre rainforest thereby eliminating illegal logging
and other intrusions. Nurturing 3 streams. Established a Forest Garden Plan (FGP), planting over 500 diverse forest, fruit, spice, and botanical species. Built lake to collect approx. 20 Mn liters of rainwater and eliminated the use of ground water. Installed rooftop solar power with a capacity of 21.6Kw. Installed sensors to capture weather and soil data to minimise use of resources and provide traceability. Re-cycling, repairing, and reusing building materials and the use of natural materials (e.g., mud bricks, bamboo) for construction and more…

Kelani Valley Protectors Initiative (KVPI)

Kelani Valley Plantations

The Kelani River is the home for more than 25% of Sri Lankans. It provides drinking water for more than 6 million people in Colombo and suburbs. The river receives pollution from industries, agriculture and households such as fertilizer residues, eroded sediments, bacteria from toilets, discarded plastic, municipal waste, metals from industry or households etc. Pollution prevention and safeguarding this valuable water source will significantly enhance our health, life quality including those of our future generations.

The objectives of this projects are to:

Adopt Nature-based Solutions (NbS) for greening the Weoya catchment, its ecosystem and ecosystem services
Connect the green gaps starting from Weoya estate to other KVPL estates
Enrich natural bio food system by planting native fruit species
Community Development initiatives and empowering the scope of youth engagement in socio- environmental corporate responsibility
Enhance Health and Wellbeing of community through watershed protection and zero plastic strategies
Improve the effectiveness through healthy workforce and reduce the absenteeism

Save the Valley

Lumbini Tea Valley

We at Lumbini tea valley believe that we should go back to the conditions of the time which tea had been created 5000 years ago. To go towards this objective, we have implemented our project “SAVE THE VALLEY”. Our vision is to create micro climatic condition within the valley so the community in the valley can enjoy their live hood for generations.

Plant native trees within the valley
Projecting water sources by educating farmers and villagers
Creating a polythene / plastics free environment within the valley
Introducing sustainable agricultural practices, train farmers to avoid using weedicides, fungicides and pesticides within the valley
Introducing and education school’s children of the valley about environment savings
Reduce using chemical fertilizer by introducing organic farming practices among the community in the valley & Waste recycling project

Through such projects, plantation workers have been able to create a life away from poverty and a standard lifestyle, and parents have been able to create new hope to uplift the lives of future generations through sustainable development.

Good Health & Well Being Quality Education

Rossell Tea

Dikom Tea Estate has always believed in the motto “Health is Wealth”. Sanitation plays a major role in community health. The estate along with the country faced the terror of COVID pandemic. As well, the estate of Dikom conducted various training program in collaboration with he local agricultural office.

Work included the following:

low smoke stoves
in-house production of santitary napkins
ban on illicit liquor to reduce domesic problems and conflicts
salt free at the work place
distribution of ‘Amla’ saplings
nutritional health food shop
created a YouTube channel during COVID for teachers and students

The Satemwa Tree Planting Club

Satemwa Tea & Coffee

Program:

We worked with scientists and universities to select a soil protecting and diversified range of economically viable trees for Malawi.
The range is going from healthy fruit trees (Avocado, Java Plum, Jack Fruit,…), to fast yielding Eucalyptus and Bamboo for building; to shade trees (Grevillea) and hard wood (Mbawa). By doing so we stimulate bio diversity and we educate people about short, medium and longer term income sources. Up to the farmers to make their own decisions.
Satemwa grows the different types of trees in our own tree nurseries.
Towards the end of the year we organize info events. We give details and trainings on the range. We explain how to plant, how to harvest, how to market. After the sessions farmers can buy trees at extreme subsidized prices. Even though it is just a very tiny contribution we ask for, we do not belief in giving trees away for free. Ownership is key!
End of December registered farmers receive their trees. Trees get planted with the practical support and help from the Satemwa managers.

Over the last 3 years Satemwa planted more than 20,000 trees on and around Satemwa.

Our Journey To Gender Equality (Runner-up)

Sorwathe Tea Ltd.

Sorwathe introduced family friendly policies, sports and undertook projects designed to reduce the financial and other burdens on families to encourage women to work and receive a monthly income rather than staying at home. Impact from projects include:

Increase of 72% in the number of women employees; Increase in the number of women Board members from zero in 2014 to three currently; Increase in members of women on the Management Committee from zero in 2014 to two currently; Construction and support for four ECD Centres;
Construction and support for 2 preschools in 2014 to 8 currently, where around 2000 young children attend daily; Serving around 2000 cups of porridge daily and 125 eggs weekly to preschool and ECD children;
Supplying 1000 reusable sanitary pads to adolescent girls. ; Introduction of Cricket to 6 schools around Sorwathe Tea Factory in 2015;
Scholarships for continuing education
Single Mothers: Awareness and training on sexual harassment; The Women’s Association of Sorwathe also provides support to 29 most vulnerable women and needy females.

Ecosystem Restoration of Plantations Lands

Talawakelle Tea Estates

In Sri Lanka, 1.5 million employment depends on the Tea sector. Tea is the 17% of the export income and 27% of GDP. Continues crop reduction of tea is a critical issue of the sector. As a Tea plantation company, Talawakelle Tea Estates PLC (TTEL) also suffering with sustainable continuity of our business. Without limit to that, it’s directly impacting 5,279 employee base and 42,000 community who are living and depending within our Tea estates. Reduction of forest cover, land degradation, excessive chemical fertilizer use irresponsible land management were the identified root cause by TTEL. Those facts were reconfirmed by international & national studies conducted by scientific bodies like Tea Research Institute Sri Lanka and other relevant organizations. With the expert advice, recommendations of scientific studies we realise the most sustainable solution for this matter is the reforestation within plantation land and bridging plantation land with surrounding natural forest to obtain more ecosystem services which will help improve land productivity in the long term sustainable manner.

This forest restoration project was implemented according to Analog forestry system. Analog Forestry is an approach to ecological restoration which uses natural forests as guides to create ecologically stable and socio-economically productive landscapes. Analog Forestry is a complex and holistic form of silviculture, which minimizes external inputs, such as agrochemicals and fossil fuels, instead fostering ecological function for resilience and productivity. Analog Forestry values not only ecological sustainability, but recognizes local rural communities’ social and economic needs, which can be met through the production of a diversity of useful and marketable goods and services, ranging from food to pharmaceuticals and fuel to fodder.tions within the organization. Scholarships for children from the poorest families maintaining gender equality.

Sustainable Tea Production Approach

Duncan Brothers (Bangladesh) Limited

To seek sustainable development ideally there is a strong need for us to utilize energy resources which cause no environmental impact and does not release harmful emissions to the environment. Since all energy resources lead to some environmental impact, it is reasonable to suggest that some of the concerns regarding the limitations imposed on sustainable development by emission and their negative impacts could be overcome through increased energy efficiency. Addressing the sustainability issues, we have to bear in mind, among others, the acid precipitation, stratospheric ozone depletion, and the greenhouse effect as well.

Program includes:

Reforestation
Environmental & Wildlife Conservation
Reduction of Carbon Footprint
Water/Waste Management
Welfare Initiatives
Primary Healthcare

Extension of Supply Chain Certification to Smallholders

Apeejay Tea

To ensure that small tea growers continued to follow the practices on a regular basis and adopt it as the system, Apeejay Tea appointed field coordinators at its own expense, developed tools for regular monitoring, trained the coordinators to function as trainers. The model was a fusion of the methods used during the pre-certification process to help farmers become complaint with the standards, the extension and empowerment model under development by Solidaridad, a civil society organization and Apeejay Tea’s learning from its experiences while working with the small tea growers for the certification.

Apeejay Tea is currently working with 1200 plus small tea growers who are part of the supply chain linked to 12 factories manufacturing tea. Manufacture of green leaf from small tea growers is targeted to touch 5 million kgs in 2019, up from 3. 6 million kgs in 2017. The prices at which the teas, Orthodox variety, are being sold have also increased by about 50 cents per kg in 2019. The price difference for small tea grower supplied leaf manufactured as CTC teas from 2017 to 2019 is about 28 cents per kg.

Energy Saving Through Improved Cook Stoves

Eastern Produce Malawi

The CQC stove innovation is a design by C-CONQUEST CAPITAL (CQC), a social impact investment company mobilizing private capital to improve access for the poor, in the least developed countries and regions, to sustainable energy sources and technology. The design aims to reduce risk of burns and indoor air pollution from open fire cooking, in (mostly) rural areas. The stove enables cooking to be fueled with small-diameter branches, twigs and crop stalks and corn cobs that are fast growing, readily available and 100% renewable; replacing the burden for (mostly) women to travel long distances to collect large diameter branches and logs of wood, for use as firewood on traditional three-stone fire places, which also contributes to deforestation.

We have started seeing benefits of installing the CQC cook stoves in our estate houses. Women are using less firewood to cook the same amount or type of food than before. This results in less time being spent on fetching firewood (ordinarily big logs) than before. It is estimated that by using the CQC cook stoves women regain up to 2 hours per day, this time is used for other activities and for rest. The estate will benefit in the long-term, as the pressure to source firewood for domestic use will be reduced – this will help reduce deforestation in the area and on the overall carbon footprint of the area.

Rain Water Harvesting for Schools in Nandi County

Eastern Produce Kenya

The company’s CSR committee meets every quarter. To expand reach to more schools, the committee has been approving at least 3 rain water harvesting projects for schools per quarter. The committee has surpassed that target as so far, as 21 schools have already benefited from this ongoing initiative. As a result we have substantially increased water use efficiency through the RWH projects in schools across Nandi County, helping to ensure a more sustainable withdrawal and freshwater supply to address water scarcity in the region.

Menstrual Hygiene Management Program

Goodricke

Our channel for training and product distribution is the selected group of women from the tea garden. These selected women are called “Blu Angels” because of the distinctive blue coats they wear. Through them, we are able to reach each line and each and every household within the tea garden. These women are trusted by the adolescent girls and women in the gardens, as they are a part of the same community. The continued dialogue about concerns of health, cost and comfort between the Blu Angles and the female community results in better understanding of menstrual hygiene and of the use of sanitary napkins.

Behavioural Changes among the women of menstrual age in tea gardens to benefit their health and wellbeing
Increase in awareness in the community on menstrual hygiene
Decrease in absenteeism and increase in productivity at school and at work
Reported increase in self-esteem (less shame around the topic of menstruation)
Increased access to and use of high quality sanitary napkins by adolescent girls and women
Skills and knowledge development in the community and, specifically for the BLU Angels, an opportunity to develop an alternative income stream

Tea Seedling Donation Program

Firsd Tea

The Program involves the donation of 15 million tea seedlings to the poverty-stricken villages of the target areas with a goal to promote sustainability in those areas by:
Introducing and supporting sustainable agricultural practices
Eliminate poverty for thousands of households in rural, mountainous areas
Developing tea production and manufacturing infrastructure
Boosting economic conditions through agro-industrial development of the areas

Water Rehabilitation

Finlays

Access to safe, clean water is essential. Globally Finlays has been involved in water stewardship programmes with the aim to provide safe access to safe water. Varying changes in climatic conditions are being seen within our global growing regions and it is important to act to ensure water sources remain and water is available to all. Differing regions have unique challenges when it comes to water, be it accessibility, frequency, quality. Finlays are involved in a few projects to mitigate water challenges.

In Argentina our work within the Tabay river basin has sustained impact within the entire province of Misiones, ensuring the flow of water throughout the basin. After a prolonged drought in 2009, the committee was created. Finlays Argentina has been effective in the protection and enhancement of areas within and adjacent to the Tabay river, establishing working groups and a protection committee within 12 municipalities, ensuring a constant and reliable supply of water from the basin.

Jalinga Sustainability Initiatives

Jalinga

We bought a pellet machine with a capability to make 80-90 kgs of pellets using green matter specially grown at the plantation for the purpose of pelletising.

The use of pellets as fuel for the burner has not only reduced the amount of pollution the factory emits (as the burning of pellets emits negligible pollutants) but also reduced the carbon footprint of the fuel is totally on farm.

Annual on-farm production of 3000MT of compost for soil enrichment.

To grow organic tea in a way so that we take minimum resources from nature and also replenish the resources so as to lead to a sustainable tea plantation.

Enhancing the lives of our workers and their families by non cash benefits which are easily quantifiable in money per day terms as well as fringe benefits.

Currently if we add this additional income of Rs 59.17 i.e. (Rs. 118.33/2 as we have an average of 2 workers in each family) then the daily income comes to Rs. 300.45 per day which is over the 287.08 which is what Living Wage had been defined for India by a consortium of Living Wage advocates.

Integrated Environmental Conservation, Nutrition and Water Access Program

KTDA

We envisioned contributing towards growing and nurturing a critical mass of young people who are aware of environmental sustainability and what it means for them and the generations to come and based on this act to protect the environment through growing trees (not just planting trees).

To improve nutrition status of the school going children through the fruit trees once they mature thus positively impacting on their health and development of their cognitive abilities.

To improve access to clean and portable water through water harvesting. This means that the incidences of water borne diseases is minimized and students would have more time to study instead of spending time going to fetch water in the contaminated rivers and springs.

Impact:

Environmental conservation awareness of school going children improved through planting, growing and taking care of 69,000 tree seedlings by December 2020.
Increased survival rate of tree seedlings planted in schools
Students and their communities improved knowledge on environmental awareness
Students will have access to clean water

Sustainable Energy Solution for Families and Factories

Rainforest Alliance

The goal of this initiative is to catalyze a scalable, renewable energy transformation in the tea-producing regions of Kenya—a country experiencing a severe deforestation crisis. Most rural households here rely on charcoal and firewood for cooking and heating, using energy-inefficient, wood-hungry stoves. Meanwhile a single tea factory burns the equivalent of 100-150 trees a day. Reliance on these fuels puts terrible pressure on Kenya’s forests and household smoke poses a serious health hazard, contributing to thousands of deaths each year.

The CPF will also aggregate biomass for ten Household Energy Centers (HECs) that have been set up to directly support tea communities. These HECs are retail distribution hubs run by local entrepreneurs who have been trained by the program to make or sell a range of renewable-energy products for family household use: from smoke-free briquettes and energy-efficient cooking stoves to solar lighting. These HECs will produce carbonized briquettes out of the biomass received from the CPF and from biomass sourced in their locality.

This project is testing a potentially scalable business model and community approach with twelve initial tea factories and approximately 50,000 households. For every 350 kg of tea produced in Kenya, one cubic meter of firewood needs to be cut down.

Teas Tea Founders Club

Tease

The Tease Tea Founders Fund was created to support all women identified entrepreneurs during every stage of their entrepreneurial journey. Started by entrepreneurs for entrepreneurs, we believe it’s never too early or too late to start giving back during the entrepreneurial process. The world doesn’t need one company or one person to make a difference but we need thousands.

From shelters to startups, a portion of proceeds from every order goes towards organizations dedicated to the empowerment of women.We work with tea packers who source from the top 10% grade of tea gardens from around the globe that are sustainably managed.

5 Funded Companies to date and $35,000 in funds.

Poverty Reduction and Exports Growth Through Tea Expansion

Tea Importers Inc.

In our discussions with the population and the local authorities, the following were highlighted as the main issues that need to be addressed to expand tea cultivation in the Rulindo District.

Lack of funds to plant tea.
Lively of the farmer and dependence if current land is converted to tea.
Lack of knowledge in organic tea cultivation

Program:

In order to support the famer for funding, we propose to grant an interest free loan with a grace period of 5 years.
In order for the farmer to earn a living during the initial years until the tea comes into baring, we propose to employ the farmer on his/her own land so that they receive a cash income.
In order to enhance the knowledge of organic tea cultivation, we propose to provide some of the our experience staff on a full time basis to plan, supervise and monitor all activities as well as train the farmer.

In 2 years, 891 farmers have benefited by this project.

Smallholder Empowerment Program

Eastern Produce Kenya

It was noted that smallholder farmer’s production was low, limiting their income ability and therefore exposing them to economic hardships. This was mainly because of the small nature of their farm holding, limited resource management skills and inadequate technical knowhow to efficiently manage their farms. A need was identified to find ways of improving their income, by providing interventions that were practical and most sustainable.

The components of the program include farmer interaction, capacity building and training through Mini Field days, Major Field Days and smallholder extension services. The program has been able to give smallholders concise, up to date information on good agricultural practices, linked them up to banking platforms and even facilitated exchange visits to their peers in other regions, thus enabling the to realize their full potential.

Since the inception of the small holders’ farmer program, EPK has observed strengthened capacity and increased knowledge ownership by farmers through discovery-based learning. The farmers are now able to make more informed choices. The confidence, enhanced capacity and strengthened platform for networking has seen the smallholder farmers grow to a level where EPK consider each other as partners in the tea business.

Anti-Slavery and Anti-Human Trafficking Program

Eastern Produce Malawi

The company, as a member of The Tea Association of Malawi, had successfully implemented the No Child Labour Program and ensured fair treatment and respect for employees. The remaining gap was looping in of the suppliers and service providers. The main focus of the program is to ensure that slavery in all its forms and types (including modern slavery and human trafficking) and slavery type practices are not tolerated within the operations and supply chain and therefore are eradicated and or reduced with an aim of abolishing them within the shortest time possible.

Margaret’s Hope Community Health Advancement Initiative

Goodricke

This project was designed to bring the user communities to be closely involved in the process of sanitation training, construction or repairs of toilets including any token sharing of resources such as a portion of tiles required to improve the aesthetics of the toilets etc. The element of voluntary involvement was built into the project to bring about a sense of ownership and improve sanitation awareness, thereby enhancing proper usage of sanitation infrastructure.

The immediate impact of this intervention would be improved health with better hygiene and sanitation practices, access to abundance of water supply.

The livelihood component of the project was intended to enable communities to increase their household incomes through income generating activities based on communities’ priorities and expertise.

Sustainability as a Business Model

Jalinga

Sustainability as a business model has made Jalinga become one of the largest organic tea producers in the region with an annual production of 900 MT that accounts for about 10% of the entire organic tea manufactured in India. Producing CTC, orthodox, green, oolong, white and matcha green tea powder.

Initiatives include:

Pioneered a newly evolved composting technology called Novcom with Inhana Biosciences
Zero carbon emission cooking stoves given to all Jalinga workers
Solar powered lighting for 1,500 workers’ homes as well as street lights
Hand water pumps in all 3 divisions of Jalinga where workers live & also distribution of filter water container for all homes
Eye camps for 3,00+ people
Jalinga Tea Run: Charity run held in Assam. All proceeds go to a charity supporting Assam tea workers and their children, and small grower/farmers projects

Waste Reduction

Pluck

Pluck sources premium and organic ingredients from local growers, and upcycles ingredients from artisanal juice, chocolate and wine makers.

They designed and installed drying centered at:

Chaser’s Juice in Toronto to upcycle citrus peel
Upcycling of grape skins into tea through Southbrook Vineyards
Upcycling of cacao shells into tea with Chocosol

Enabling Girls to Attend School Without Stigma

Sorwate

Lack of access to safe, effective and clean menstrual products and a lack of female health education keeps girls out of school up to two months each year. As a result, girls fall behind in school and often quit altogether. In turn, their prospects for careers and higher education diminish.

Collaboration with Days for Girls International to build an initiative to provide menstrual products to all high school girls in the surrounding area of Sorwathe’s factory.

Since 2015, 250 kits have been distributed. Teachers report a positive impact on the education of girls. There is increased concentration, boost in self-esteem, decrease in drop out rates and cost savings for the families.

Diversity, Inclusion and Women’s Welfare

Eastern Produce Malawi

Eastern Produce Malawi (EPM) embraced and implemented a Diversity, Inclusion and Women’s Welfare policy in March 2017 to further demonstrate its commitment to providing equal opportunities to all its employees irrespective of gender. With this policy in place EPM aims at bringing women to the same level with men by encouraging women to participate and operate even in positions traditionally dominated by men. Implementation of this policy is in line with the Sustainable Development Goal number 5 the aim of which is to achieve gender equality and empowerment of women and girls.

The main objective of the initiative is to fully integrate women into each and every level of business operation within EPM. The policy ensures diversification of the EPM’s focus areas to include and take care of the welfare of all female employees as we believe that happiness, productivity and commitment go hand in hand with a safe and conducive work environment.

As a result of focusing on the welfare of women within the company and the setup and culture of the Malawian society, in which women are the main caretakers of the family, this initiative also has a positive impact on the families and communities around EPM.

Finlays Community Empowerment

Finlays

Working towards a gender balance in Kenya, Finlays has demonstrated our leadership in the promotion of gender equality and women empowerment. From the promotion of a safe and secure working environment to ensuring that all persons thrive in an ethnically and culturally diverse organisation.

Since the project began in January 2015, significant progress has been achieved:
• A Policy on Gender Equality and Diversity was initiated in 2015.
• A commitment was given to achieving significant representation of women at all levels within the business. Targets were agreed for each level of the business with an overall target of 33% as stipulated in Kenya’s constitution.
• Representation of women at all levels increased from 28% in 2014 to 31%, with a notable change being within junior management; 22% to 28%.
• At board level the glass ceiling shattered, through the appointment of Mrs Catherine Kivai as the first female Finance Director.

WASH Program

Goodricke

The Group operates in a total of 27 tea estates in Assam Valley and West Bengal spread over a vast land mass of 225219.51 Hectares (252.2 Square Kms), directly supporting a resident population of 169945. Well-being of this large resident population is our responsibility and we ensure their welfare through several health care delivery programs and primary amongst these is the WASH Program.

The fundamental pillars of the WASH program are:
W – Water
A – Air and therefore ventilation
S – Sanitation
H – Hygiene

WASH is aimed at ensuring availability of good quality Water, improved ventilation in residential houses, good sanitation facilities and high standards of hygiene amongst to eventually ensure good health of the resident populace.

Concentrated, Organized Agriculture Production

Lam Tea JSC

My Lam has made decision to change from small fragmented piece work production model into “CONCENTRATED, ORGANIZED AGRICULTURE PRODUCTION”. In this model, tea farmers would be grouped into 9 production teams (with the scale of 40-50 ha/team). Team leaders are assigned by My Lam Company. Team leaders are in charge of operating services teams including spraying team. These service teams are paid by My Lam.

Benefits of this program include:
– Incomes increase by 40-50% since all of the other costs is paid by My Lam Company.
– Productivity increase by 100% since all of the agriculture practices is supported with services team who are trained professionally.
– Plant Protection costs is reduced but the efficiency increases.
– Tea garden is taken care professionally and surrounding landscape is preserved.
– Human health is protected since the toxic works (spraying) is now on the hand of carefully trained service teams

“What’s their story?”

Tumoi Tea

Tumoi Teas is one of the first specialty tea cottage factories in Kenya. Our business model is to work with Kenyan farmers to develop teas for the
international market. At Tumoi Teas, we believe that our product is not just tea, but the story too! Our success and the sustainability of these small scale processing is highly dependent on how much our story is known.

We have a two pronged initiative therefore that seeks to train farmers to manufacture shelf ready high quality artisanal teas for the international market. Storytelling being a big part of our product, we also have a program that involves over children from three different schools within a 2 kilometer radius from our factory. This program is to develop and improve their literacy, creative writing and storytelling skills and prepare them to be the tea storytellers.

BioWeb®

Ahlstrom-Munksjö

The initiative Ahlstrom-Munksjö undertook was to replace traditional materials by sustainable raw materials in the tea industry. In this case, the focus was on tea bag materials. Traditionally, a tea bag is not compostable nor fully biodegradable. The challenge we have is that in theory everyone would like to offer product that are better for the environment but where the issues arise is when materials do not run as well on current machinery (a main driver in our industry) as traditional materials or when the cost is just too high. So in the end, the target value proposition was “Create an environmentally friendly product that runs on current machinery and has an acceptable total cost of ownership”.

No-Waste Packaging Alternative

Arbor Teas

Arbor Teas is an online retailer of organic tea that has operated in the USA since 2004, placing a strong emphasis on sustainability. After assessing its usage of energy and resources in 2007, Arbor Teas (in conjunction with the University of Michigan’s Center for Sustainable Systems) identified packaging as an area that could significantly reduce its own environmental footprint (and that of the tea industry as a whole). As a result, Arbor Teas set out to create a no-waste, financially-viable packaging alternative that could be replicated by other companies. In 2015, Arbor Teas finally achieved that goal, releasing the tea industry’s first no-waste consumer packaging that allows every part of the package (in addition to the customer’s used tea leaves) to be backyard composted – leaving behind zero waste. Unlike “biodegradable” or industrially-compostable packaging, Arbor Teas packaging can be safely composted in a home composting system.

Conservation of Natural Resources

Eastern Produce Kenya Limited

Eastern Produce Kenya Limited abides by the principle of “wise-use” through education and hands-on practical management and sees this as key to a healthy environment and the future sustainability of tea operations and natural resources Targets and key performance indicators of the program include: incorporate awareness of environmental and ecological issues into the day to day management, implement constructed wetlands for treatment of factory effluent and waste water, develop a partnership with local authorities, the workers, surrounding communities and community organizations to enhance socio-environmental programs, and implement Environmental policies, management plans and sustainable utilization of natural resources.

The success of the project has been the involvement of both employees and the surrounding community in conserving the environment.

Waste to Resource Initiatives – Circular Economy

Finlays

Globally we are continually looking for ways to reduce, re-use, recycle and recover our waste streams, diverting as much waste as possible from landfill, where possible. Taking steps towards ‘zero to landfill’. Reducing waste increases efficiency and decreases production costs.

Following reuse, recycle, recover, reduce hierarchy allows us to repurpose waste materials, extending the lifecycle of materials, reduce the amounts of raw materials used and therefore aids in reducing our impact on finite resources, globally.

Finlays has implemented a few waste to resource projects globally: biogas, boiler upgrade and alternative materials.

Towards Clean and Green Energy

Goodricke

Instant Tea Plant (ITP) is a 100% EOU and produces instant tea which requires, on an average 5000 liters of heated water (up to 80 C) per hour for its processing and this heating process is done through steam. Delta ‘T’ varies from 50-58 C, depending on the seasonal ambient water temp which ranges between 22-30 C.

Heat energy requirement varies from 2, 50,000 to 2, 90,000 Kcal/hr, which is equivalent to 62-72 kg coal/hr.

Therefore, there is a requirement of approx. 500 – 600 kgs of coal/day during day time.

It was found that the same amount of heat energy can be extracted from solar power using CPC (Compound Parabolic Concentrator) collectors.

We committed to this project seeing the opportunity of getting clean energy, reduction in carbon emission, fossil fuel consumption and fuel cost.

Program for Revitalizing Tea-Growing Regions

ITO EN

To help create new jobs and revitalize dormant farms ITO EN launched the Tea-Producing Region Development Project in 2001. The project is rooted in the brand’s passion and firm belief that preserving Japan’s green tea culture is important to all citizens of the planet, and as a company, it has a unique responsibility to ensure not only socio-economic stability for tea farmers, but environmental protection and sustainability for future generations. By partnering with regional farmers and governments, it’s earmarked nearly 1,000 hectares for tea plantations as of 2016, procuring raw tea leaves for ready to drink teas, and reconnecting young people to the soil through education on sustainable agricultural techniques, modern harvesting equipment, and community involvement.

In addition to the strengthening of cooperation with prefectural tea industrial research organizations, ITO EN is striving to strengthen cooperation with agricultural material related companies, universities, and farming cooperatives in relation to fertilizers and other agricultural materials. As a result, the development of industrial clusters is steadily progressing in tea-producing regions.

Carbon Neutral Program

Jalinga

In 2004 Jalinga overhauled production systems and introduced a comprehensive organic programme under the Inhana Rational Farming Technology (IRF).

As part of the IRF, the Estate pioneered a newly evolved composting technology called Novcom. The process using plant material and cow manure (80:20 ratio) generates heat at temps of 65 – 75 degrees centigrade. This destroys harmful pathogens and is conducive to the growth of actinomycetes (known to decompose organic substances) and other soil friendly bacteria enabling the breakup of organic matter and cellulose to simpler forms. The composting cycle is complete in 21 days unlike 60 – 90 days as seen in other methods. It has economic advantages as well with almost no investment needed in infrastructure or raw materials and makes minimal use of labour and technology.

The cumulative effect of these green interventions was greater carbon sequestration and a lowering of greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) earning them recognition for attaining carbon neutrality.

Sustainable-Plant-Protection-Formulation

Sustainable Agriculture Certification Programme

KTDA

The programme was based on Sustainable Agriculture Network Certifications standards and policies and it involves training all farmers, workers, leaders and management on the 10 principles of sustainable agricultures so that they can adopt and implement them in the processing facilities and farms. Once the factory and farmers have complied with all requirements of the standards they are subjected to an independent external audit to confirm compliance. If a factory and all its members are confirmed to have implemented and complied with the standard requirements then they are certified. The certification is a way of branding the factory company as a producer of a superior social and environmental performance product.

The broad objectives of the sustainable agriculture are to conserve the environment, enhance social equity and enhance economic viability.

Forest Conservation

Nyayo Tea Zone Development Cooperation

The Corporation promotes forest conservation by providing buffer zones of tea and assorted tree species to check human encroachment into the forestland. The activities are mainly along the gazetted forests in the Kenyan five water towers. The Cooperation does the conservation by establishing a 100 meter belt of tea along the forest to help protect it from human encroachment.

The organization has been able to establish 3532 hectares of tea, 5235 hectares of assorted tree species and buffer belt management in Kenya. Green leaf production has increased from 3 million kgs in the 1990s to 30 million in the financial year 2016/2017. Establishment of own factory with two processing lines of black tea CTC with annual capacity of 3 million black tea production.

Environmental-Sustainability-_-Biodiversity-Program

Agri-team Model

Phu Da Tea Company

Phu Da Tea Company decided to establish a model called Agri-team with some help from Vietnam Tea Association. In which, a spraying team called Agri-team for each region would be formed (number of members depends on the planting area). With our 1495 tea farmers divided into 40 production teams, in which 3 Agri-teams has been formed. Team members include tea farmers or employees of the company within the region – who have achieved at least a high school degree.

Phu Da Tea Company is responsible for training these teams with proper Agro – chemicals usage, nesseccary agriculture practice with consultant from tea experts, agri-culutre professors, equipping team members with equip necessary spraying tools and protection clothes. This team is responsible for all the spraying work within their region freeing tea farmers from this toxic work. Their leaders would have a record book to note down every activity of this team on a daily basis.

Herbicide-Free-Integrated-Weed-Management

Integrated Pest Management

Rainforest Alliance

The objective of the project is to manage pest by looking at the tea plant as one element of the ecosystem that it operates in. We have looked at Integrated Pest Management (IPM) as a system where we look at the whole tea ecosystem and not just the removal of pesticides. Natural predators of pests are studied and measures taken to increase their numbers by ensuring they receive food, shelter from their own predators, and refuge areas for them to grow in. We are working at creating a balance in the environment where the predators and their prey control the outbreaks of any one insect or disease.

By ensuring equilibrium between the bad and good insects, there are no pest outbreaks that would ruin crops and farmers’ harvests. The good insects harmlessly go about their business of pollinating plants and otherwise protecting plants by destroying the bad insects.

Rain Water Harvesting for Schools in Nandi County

Eastern Produce Kenya

At EPK, we consider ourselves as meaningful and responsible contributor to the social and economic growth of Nandi County. To help schools gain access to water, we embarked on a rainwater harvesting project in one of the secondary schools early in 2018. Once the project was under way, during the second quarter of 2018, the school reported a significant increase in afternoon class attendance (100% increase in the second quarter). Previously, afternoon classes would have 70% attendance or lower. To expand reach to more schools, the committee has been approving at least 3 rain water harvesting projects for schools per quarter. The committee has surpassed that target as so far, as 21 schools have already benefited from this ongoing initiative.

Menstrual Hygiene Management Program

Goodricke

Studies show that only 12% of India’s 335 million menstruating women use sanitary napkins to manage their menses. 300 million women rely on old rags, plastics, sand, and ash to address their sanitation needs during the menstrual cycle. Inadequate menstrual protection can lead adolescent girls (age group 12‐18 years) to miss (on average) 5 days of school in a month (50 days a year). Around 23% of these girls actually drop out of school after they start menstruating. Goodricke has established a training program for product distribution and education by a women in the community called “Blu Angels” (because of the distinctive blue coats they wear). This program reaches each and every household within the tea garden and has proven to increase young women’s health and wellbeing. As a direct result there has been a decrease in absenteeism and increase in productivity at school and at work.

Tea Seedling Donation Program

Firsd Tea

Zhejiang Tea Group (ZJT), in cooperation with the China Tea Research Institute, Huangdu Village of Zhejiang Province, along with multiple provincial and national government agencies, have united to develop an innovative sustainability program in rural villages in China’s Pu’an and Yanhe Counties of Guizhou Province, Guzhang County of Hunan Province, and Qingchuan County of Sichuan Province. The Program aims to assist an estimated 10,000 households out of poverty by providing long-term, sustainable tea crops and primary processing facility operations to the areas. Farmers will be given further technical assistance in managing their crops and improving yields, along with enhanced marketing campaigns to support sales of teas produced.

Water Rehabilitation

Finlays

Globally Finlays has been involved in water stewardship programmes with the aim to provide safe access to safe water. In Argentina our work within the Tabay river basin has sustained impact within the entire province of Misiones, ensuring the flow of water throughout the basin. After a prolonged drought in 2009, the committee was created. Finlays Argentina has been effective in the protection and enhancement of areas within and adjacent to the Tabay river, establishing working groups and a protection committee within 12 municipalities, ensuring a constant and reliable supply of water from the basin.

Jalinga Sustainability Initiatives

Jalinga

Current projects include working on pollution from the coal fired factory dryer and the gap between the living wages defined for India and the cash wages paid to tea workers. They have bought a pellet machine with a capability to make 80-90 kgs of pellets using green matter specially grown at the plantation for the purpose of pelletising. Jalinga has an annual on-farm production of 3000MT of compost for soil enrichment. They are enhancing the lives of their workers and their families by non cash benefits which are easily quantifiable in money per day terms as well as fringe benefits.

Integrated Environmental Conservation, Nutrition and Water Access Programme

KTDA

The KTDA has sustainable projects focused on environmental conservation through awareness of school going children improved through planting, growing and taking care of 69,000 tree seedlings by December 2020. They have increased survival rate of tree seedlings planted in schools, improved knowledge on environmental awareness. In addition the project ensures that students will have access to clean water.

Food Security Project

Eastern Produce Kenya Limited, Kenya

Eastern Produce Kenya Limited cultivates manufactures and markets quality black tea. One of our contributions to advancing Sustainability and Social Practices in Kenya is that we provide our 9,000 employees and their 45,000 direct dependents with housing, medical care, potable water, education and environmental protection.

Housing, constructed and maintained by the company, is organized into villages with each village having 20 to 90 houses, all with potable water, waste management and sanitation facilities. EPK maintains nursery and primary schools providing free education to the children of employees, dependents and the surrounding communities, following a strict code of not using child labor in our operations. We also offer scholarships, bursaries and stipends and provide funds to establish and improve schools near our plantations.

Goodricke School for Special Education

Goodricke Group Ltd, India

Goodricke Group Ltd’s initiative comes from the parent company Camellia Plc’s deeply held principle of operating with a human face and being responsible for our impacts on the environment, on society and the economy at large. We follow the vision of our parent company Camellia Plc. in pledging – we’ll continue to make positive contributions to the communities in the passionate belief that the well-being of the community has a positive impact on our operations.

The community connect initiatives are through social inclusiveness, corporate philanthropy and CSR activities.

Gisovu Honey Project

Gisovu Tea Company Limited, Rwanda

Honey in Rwanda plays a major role in the livelihood for rural communities, besides having medicinal values it can act as a lucrative income generator. The Rwandan Honey has ready market abroad especially in Europe.

The Project at Gisovu was conceived to empower the farmers to augment their income & provide a source of livelihood to the dependents in the family. The Honey produced at Gisovu carefully & zealously guard its organic nature free from pesticides & other contaminants. It also promotes the Biodiversity conservation of the Nyungwe forest which the Bee’s help in pollinate.

One Pre-School per year and One Cup Porridge per child

Sorwathe Ltd., Rwanda

In 2012, Sorwathe identified the necessity of improving of Early Childhood Education around the factory and plantation. There was only one good pre-school which was run by Sorwathe (St Josephs Gako) and was overcrowded with around 100 children. Children used to walk long distances to attend this school. Hence, Sorwathe decided on building “One Pre-School per Year” and since 2012, has built another 3 pre-schools (2013/2014/2015). Currently the 4 pre-schools attract around 420 children per day. We also observed that most of the children were tired and hungry and sometimes fall asleep in class. In order to address this important issue of Nutrition, we commenced on providing “One Cup of Porridge per child” and currently we provide around 420 cups a day. The “One Cup Porridge per child” program has been supported in part by a grant of 2000 Euro from one of our buyers.

Improving Tea Farmer Livelihoods in Malawi

Ethical Tea Partnership, Rwanda

Between 2013 and 2015 the Ethical Tea Partnership (ETP) implemented a training programme with tea farmers in Malawi to improve their tea farming practices and ultimately their livelihoods. The programme was co-funded by Tata Global Beverages Ltd. (TGBL) and the Sustainable Trade Initiative (IDH), and supported by Malawian tea producers and the Tea Association of Malawi (TAML). In order to disseminate information effectively the Farmer Field Schools (FFS) approach to capacity building was utilised. Each FFS group consists of 25-30 farmers, and training takes place twice a month for a whole year, on a series of topics that the farmers choose themselves. Approximately 80% of the training focuses on tea farming. Topics include: Good Agricultural Practices (GAP), seedling production, climate change resilience, and business management. The remaining 20% of time is spent on ‘non-tea’ topics that are pertinent to their lives, such as HIV/AIDS, hygiene and sanitation, and food security.

Empowering Women at Kenya’s Largest Tea Cooperative

Ethical Tea Partnership with Kenya Tea Development Agency and IDH the Sustainable Trade Initiative, Kenya

In Kenya, the new 2010 constitution has afforded a higher degree of gender equality in principle, while in practice the implementation of the laws has been a challenge. Women have very limited access to land, men often control their income, and gender based violence is rampant with nearly half of women experiencing it in their lifetime.

Widespread certification as well as social and environmental auditing standards across tea estates and factories in Kenya have helped improve handling of health and safety, and environmental management. However, complex issues such as harassment and discrimination require broader approaches to strengthen mechanisms and address working environments that can leave workers feeling unsafe, vulnerable, and unmotivated leading to lower productivity and absenteeism.

This situation led The Ethical Tea Partnership (ETP) together with Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA) and IDH the Sustainable Trade Initiative to develop a programme to improve management of social issues within KTDA.

Improving Young Lives in Assam

Ethical Tea Partnership and UNICEF, Kenya

The UNICEF-ETP Partnership is a groundbreaking partnership project launched by UNICEF & Ethical Tea Partnership (ETP) in 2014 in Assam. The project aims to improve opportunities for tens of thousands of children and reduce their vulnerability to trafficking and abuse in those communities that grow some of the world’s favourite tea.

The partnership is the first of its kind to bring together all key stakeholders in the tea industry – public and private organisations and the supply chain.

The 3-year programme supported and funded by IDH the Sustainable Trade Initiative; ETP members, Tesco, OTG (Meßmer), Tata Global Beverages (Tetley, Tata Tea), and Taylors of Harrogate (Yorkshire Tea); and Typhoo, is initially working with 350 communities on over 100 estates in three districts in the Indian state of Assam, and has the potential to serve as a model to protect children across other rural communities.

Initiative of appointing women directors to the factory boards and training

Kenya Tea Development Agency, Kenya

For along time, women have not been involved in decision making. KTDA embarked on a programme of ensuring that women get to the decision making table. Since the women could not meet one of the requirements of being registered as a tea farmer, this condition was waived and the focus placed on academic qualification and experience in position of responsibility. Respective boards conducted interviews of interested women and appointed one of them as a director. Once appointed, she became an equal player with the rest of the directors on the board and could even vie for position of chairperson of the board.

A total of forty (40) women directors were appointed. It was decided that a suitable training programme should be developed. The programme was divided into three phases. 1. Women in leadership which took two days, 2.Corporate governance. 43.A visit to Tea Auction to witness the sale of factory tea. This programme took twelve days to be concluded, 05-16 August 2013.

Adoption Of Farmers Field School

Kenya Tea Development Agency, Kenya

It’s a group extension method based on adult (male and female) education methodology. Consists of 20-30farmers (of all adult ages) with a common interest who meet regularly to study and learn the how and why of a particular theme or topic of study. It runs for 12 months with two meetings per month It has Participatory approach to extension based on FFS principles It’s a School without Walls Whereby the Field Is the Primary Learning Venue. Learning is through experiential, discovery and doing some experiments.

Emrok Ngererit School World Reader Program

Emrok Tea Canada, Kenya

Ngererit Primary School was built and opened in 2011 entirely from the financial assistance of the Emrok Tea operation along with other private donations raised to serve the greater community through enhanced education. Located near Kericho, Kenya, there are approximately 600 students with an equal mix of boys and girls. Emrok Tea partnered with Worldreader to raise $20,000 to provide e-reading as a solution for the students of Ngererit. In May 2016, Worldreader sent two BLUE (Building Literacy Using E-Books) Boxes to the school, which provided 100 Kindles each loaded with 100 culturally relevant e-books. BLUE Boxes contain everything needed to bring digital reading to a school, which includes the e-readers, books (schools can choose from our library of 40,000 books in 43 different languages), accessories, and Worldreader’s 7+ years of expertise in the field.

Metropolitan and trading fairly

Metropolitan Tea Company Ltd.

Since opening our doors, Metropolitan Tea has always supported Fair Treatment and Trading Fairly. We continue to do so and require this ethos of all growers who wish to do business with us. We travel regularly to visit the tea estates – not only to develop relationships but also to ensure that there is fair treatment of the labor force and respect for the environment.

Bodo Handloom

McLeod Russel, India

McLeod Russel India Limited, is a tea plantation company is based in Assam and has several tea estates in the Mangaldai district of Assam, which is also inhabited by the Bodo tribes. The BHS was started in 1995 on the Borengajuli tea estate by McLeod Russel and is today a core Community Project for the group.

The main objective of the Project is to promote the traditional Bodo weaving skills and ethnic styles. It enables Bodo women to generate extra income thus ensuring sustainable livelihood and economic empowerment.

The unique feature of this scheme is that all the running and infrastructure costs of the project are borne by our group and all sales proceed from the finished products are re-invested in the scheme. Employment generation and income for the local womenfolk has improved the social and economic status of the local tribal community in and around Borengajuli Tea Estate. Currently over 140 weavers are actively involved in the scheme.

Community Development Programs in Assam

TATA Global Beverages, India

The state of Assam is one of the world’s largest tea-growing region, lying on either side of the Brahmaputra River, and bordering Bangladesh and Myanmar. It produces over 600 million Kg of tea from 800 tea estates and 100,000 small tea gardens. It is estimated that over 20% of Assam’s population of 30 million is dependent on the tea industry for its livelihood. Tata Global Beverages’ community development programs in Assam are based on a multi-pronged strategy for improving the lives of the tea community through an integrated, holistic and collaborative approach with structured monitoring and evaluation framework. The scope of the interventions includes sustainable agriculture, affordable medical with e-healthcare, women empowerment, livelihood and vocational training programs and climate change management.

Artisanal Tea Cottage Factory

JusTea, Kenya

JusTea’s social initiative is to create a better quality of life for rural tea communities in Kenya. Since 2012, we have been working with small-scale farmers to establish Kenya’s first-ever “Artisanal Tea Cottage Factory” called Tumoi Teas. This small specialty factory is processing orthodox teas that have never been seen before in the world market: Purple, Green, Oolong and Black artisanal teas. Tumoi Teas is fully staffed, managed, and owned, by small-scale tea farming families in Nandi Hills, Kenya. The Tea Board of Kenya, has granted us one of the first tea processing licenses to produce these artisanal, direct-from-farm teas.

We are pioneering the research and processing of new Kenyan teas, but more importantly, we are providing steady employment where there wasn’t any before. We are currently employing 10 tea workers at the factory, 30 people to hand-pluck leaves in the garden, and over 15 small-scale tea growers. JusTea’s ethical tea partnership with Tumoi Teas offers you a unique tea with a story – justly made tea.

Gisovu Elephant Toilet

Gisovu Elephant Toilet, Rwanda

The concept of Elephant Toilet was adopted at Gisovu tea estate to provide innovative & sustainable sanitation & hygiene solution for the Pluckers working in the fields. An Area of 350 Ha, with average number of Pluckers at 300 -350 per day, we have a plan to construct 15 Nos in the fields particularly keeping women folk in mind, providing clean place with privacy. we have already finished 9 Nos which are in use.

Sustainable Plant Protection Formulation

TATA Global Beverages, India

Project S-PPF is a sustainable agriculture initiative for tea crops to develop a commercially viable portfolio of bio-pesticides. In a short span of 1 year, the project developed the world’s first multi-plant formulation to protect tea crops from Red Spider Mites that cause 18% of tea crop loss in India. The formulation Natural Acaracide (NA-01) has bio-efficacy comparable to chemical acaracides at low and medium infestations. NA-01 is an organic, plant based, eco-friendly formulation that combines plant protection with plant nutrition as well. It was granted provisional patent in June 2015, and regulatory approval is in process. The Project is a unique collaboration between 6 Tata Group companies, each company bringing unique competencies, and has been awarded the Tata Innovista in 2016 – Tata group’s global Innovation Award. The team consists of 20 multi-disciplinary scientists from Tata Global Beverages, Tata Chemicals, Rallis, Kanan Devan Plantations, Amalgamated Plantations and Tata Coffee.

CO2 Neutral Emissions

Jalinga Tea Estate, India

It’s the only Carbon Neutral certified(CO2 Neutral) tea estate in the world. Certified by Soil and More, Netherland. We did our carbon footprint assessment in 2013 & our footprint came negative & we got certified CO2 Neutral. More & more buyers/brands worldwide are now interested to use this logo on their packs provided they use 100% Jalinga teas. Such environment friendly certificates will be key in the future the way climate change is impacting our daily lives & specially in Tea Sector worldwide we are seeing a huge threat.

Sustainable Tea Production Approach

Duncan Brothers (Bangladesh) Limited

With a focus on environmental impact, Duncan Brothers’ sustainability initiatives focus on reforestation, environmental & wildlife conservation, reduction of carbon footprint, water/waste management, welfare initiatives and primary healthcare. With their projects they have contributed to diversifying navtive species on their plantations, conservation of fresh water in resevoirs, lakes and streams and have improved health awareness among their workers and families.

Energy Savings Through Improved Cooking Stoves

Eastern Produce Malawi

Eastern Produce Malawi (EPM) provides housing to about 30% of its workforce. Like many households in Malawi, EPM’s labour houses are not connected to an electricity grid. As a result, the households use firewood or burnt charcoal for cooking. EPM, through Tea Association of Malawi Limited (TAML), are addressing this problem by installing cook stoves, known as CQC stoves, that are not only energy efficient but also reduces health risks associated with incomplete combustion. It is estimated that by using the CQC cook stoves women regain up to 2 hours per day (as they do not have to go out and source wood), this time is used for other activities and for rest. The estate will benefit in the long-term, as the pressure to source firewood for domestic use will be reduced – this will help reduce deforestation in the area and on the overall carbon footprint of the area.

Water Rehabilitation

Finlays

Jalinga Sustainability Initiatives

Jalinga

Integrated Environmental Conservation, Nutrition and Water Access Programme

KTDA

Alternative Fuel Source

El Vasco S.A., Argentina

Our goal was focused on finding an alternative fuel source to replace using the wood of native forests. In order to protect and preserve the environment, the initiative of El Vasco SA was to introduce a new technology in the tea industry. For many years, El Vasco SA factories worked with traditional steam boilers for industrial use. Given the company’s commitment to sustainable development, there was a need to find a reliable, stable, renewable and environmentally friendly source of energy supply for those boilers. El Vasco SA pioneered the implementation of a wood pellet steam boiler system in the tea industry. In 2009, this new fuel management system was installed in one of our factories. A forehearth was added to be able to use wood pellets produced from planted forest wood waste. Currently, the wood pellet steam boiler system is operating in all our factories.

Gisovu Elephant Toilet

Gisovu Elephant Toilet, Rwanda

Sustainable Plant Protection Formulation

TATA Global Beverages, India

CO2 Neutral Emissions

Jalinga Tea Estate, India

Environmental Sustainability & Biodiversity Program

Kabepe Chakra, Indonesia

In 1997 CHAKRA management have identified the potential site on a visit to the estate. In 1999 Chakra conducting a full feasibility study. In 2000 decision was taken by the management of the estate to implement the project. A soft loan covering 50% of he investment was provided by USAID in cooperation with a local NGO active in renewable energy development. The project fully implemented in 2002.

Herbicide Free Integrated Weed Management

Hapugastenne Tea Estate, Sri Lanka

The initiative uses a combination of manual uprooting of noxious weeds followed by the natural regeneration of the remaining vegetation of “soft” weeds to form a thick ground cover that prevents the re-establishment of the noxious weeds.

Green Education

Goodricke Group Ltd., India

The Company as part of its CSR initiatives has undertaken to set up school oriented green interpretation centers for promoting planet sustainability practices, by sensitizing the school children as the central resource, empowered with knowledge and skills to tackle the environmental and habitat problems, one of the global issues for mankind today.

The Company fully owns the initiative by funding the creation of the green Centre with civil work, asset support and activation of its various programming components by bringing in appropriate knowledge expertise and implementation partners.

Sorwathe… Going Green

Sorwathe Ltd., Rwanda

Sorwathe was using 145 tons of Chemical Fertilizer per year for its Tea fields prior to 2009. This fertilizer adversely affected the fauna and flora as well water sources. Since 2009, Sorwathe has been following Organic Tea cultivation and 40% of its area under tea was certified in 2012. Another 55% will be certified in May 2017. Since implementing Organic practices, thequantity of chemical fertilizer used in 2015 and 2016 has come down by 98%. Sorwathe also implemented Sustainable Agriculture Practices and received Rainforest Alliance certification in 2012. It has its own cow project, donated 50 cows to the “One Cow PerFamily” program in Rwanda and installed a 50 Kw Solar Power Project using the factory roof space.

Climate Change Adaptation in the Kenyan Tea Sector

ETP, Kenya

The project aimed to give Kenyan smallholder tea farmers improved access to knowledge on climate change and enhance their capacities to adopt appropriate adaptation techniques. In order to achieve this, the project built the capacity of the Kenyan Tea Development Agency (KTDA) and other local institutions to directly train and support smallholder tea farmers on the issues of climate change, its impacts on tea production, and appropriate techniques for adaptation. Ultimately the training enabled smallholders to put measures in place to secure their future livelihoods, reduce their vulnerability to climatic impacts, and most critically, to continue growing tea. Initially focusing on the 5 KTDA factories and 50,000 smallholder farmers most heavily impacted by climate change, additional partnerships increased the project’s reach to over 100,000 farmers across 10 factories, and the learnings have now been spread across the whole of KTDA by embedding the knowledge in pre-existing training structures – potentially reaching all 560,000 smallholders.

Climate Change Mitigation in the Kenyan Tea Sector

ETP, Kenya

The energy costs of the Kenyan Tea Development Agency (KTDA) equates to nearly 25% of total operating costs, and over 50% of factory operating costs equivalent to some 4.26 billion Kenyan shillings (KSh) or £27.8 million pounds per year. For the 560,000 smallholder tea farmers that are part of this cooperative, every Kenyan Shilling spent on energy is money directly out of their pockets.

ETP and partners have been working towards improving the energy efficiency of the Kenyan tea sector. Energy audits and an efficiency training programme have delivered excellent results. In addition, innovative sustainable energy solutions have been trialled at a number of factories including the much publicised ‘briquette-making’ machine at Makomboki tea processing factory.

The huge success of the programme has led to an upscale project after the first year and efficiency work is now being rolled out across all 66 KTDA factories.

Sustainable Agriculture Certification Programme

KTDA, Kenya

Sustainable agriculture is the efficient production of safe, high quality agricultural products, in a way that protects the natural environment, the social and economic conditions of farmers, their employees and local communities, and safeguards the health and welfare of all farmed species.

The programme was based on Sustainable Agriculture Network Certifications standards and policies and it involves training all farmers, workers, leaders and management on the 10 principles of sustainable agricultures so that they can adopt and implement them in the processing facilities and farms. Once the factory and farmers have complied with all requirements of the standards they are subjected to an independent external audit to confirm compliance. If a factory and all its members are confirmed to have implemented and complied with the standards requirements then they are certified. The certification is a way branding the factory company as a producer of a superior social and environmental performance product.

Metropolitan’s Environment Action Program/Carbon

Metropolitan Tea Company

Metropolitan’s main factory in Toronto, Canada has implemented numerous modifications to its plant and equipment over the last 10 years. As a result, we have accomplished a 66% reduction in utility usage (per work unit) while tripling our output over the same period. Future projects are in the planning stages that will reduce utility usage a further 12% (per work unit).

TRIORCON (TRI Organic and Conventional) and BIDORCON (Biodynamic, Organic and Conventional) and NFRDA (Nature Farming Research and Demonstration Area)

Tea Research Institute of Sri Lanka, Sri Lanka

Initiation of the long term field trials TRIORCON (TRI Organic and Conventional) and BIDORCON (Biodynamic, Organic and Conventional) and NFRDA (Nature Farming Research and Demonstration Area) on Sustainable tea is unique to tea research.

Its holistic view of sustainability covering agronomic, cultural and pest management, solutions for constraints and limitations and scientific validation to ecological, indigenous, natural, organic and biodynamic concepts aims at meeting several sustainability objectives of growth, physiology, biochemistry, yield, quality, soil and nutrient management, pest and disease incidences, processing, worker health, socio economics, environmental cost benefits and system sustainability etc.

INITIATIVES

Industry Initiatives

Business with a Human Face (WINNER)

Amalgamated Plantations Private Limited

Special Needs Education Project (WINNER)

Eastern Produce Kenya Limited

Project Phoenix

Harrisons Malayalam Ltd.

Go Green Energy – Sustainable Shift Towards Renewable Energy (RUNNER-UP)

Horana Plantations PLC

She Essentia – Empowering Women and Sustaining Communities

Horana Plantations PLC

Kelani Valley Plantations PLC

Nepal Tea Revival Project (WINNER)

Nepal Tea Collective, Inc.

From Field to Cup, with Purpose (RUNNER-UP)

Pluck Tea Inc

Solara – Sustainability in Every Step

Spire Tea

Towards Net-Zero: Designing Sri Lanka’s First Climate-Smart Tea Factory

Talawakelle Tea Estates PLC

Valmitran Foundation

Valmitran SA

Building Regenerative Resilience in Guatemalan Cardamom

Yogi Tea