If you’re anything like me, there’s nothing better than a comforting cup of tea to close out the day. For Earth Month, why not consider turning that soothing ritual into a small act of sustainability? With just a few simple shifts, your daily brew can be both mindful and planet-friendly. Here are a few easy ways to green your tea routine.
Embrace Loose-Leaf Teas. Switching over to loose-leaf teas will reduce the waste associated with individually wrapped teabags. Additionally, they are normally higher in quality and have a richer flavor.
Ditch the paper cups. Switch from paper cups to a tea tumbler. If you're looking to make a positive impact on both the planet and your health, it’s time to consider an alternative to single-use cups. A reusable tea tumbler is an affordable, stylish, and an ethical tea option if you want an Earth-friendly disposable cup replacement.
Purchase Sustainable Tea Brands. Consider purchasing from sustainable tea brands that prioritize environmental and social responsibility. Look for certifications such as Fair Trade, Rainforest Alliance, and USDA Organic, which indicate that the brand follows ethical and sustainable practices.
Here are a few tea brands worth checking out:
Storehouse Tea
Storehouse Tea is a woman-owned, certified organic tea company committed to sourcing the finest loose-leaf tea and sachet ingredients directly from local and international farmers who embrace sustainable practices. Their packaging uses recyclable cardboard and plant-based, biodegradable sachets to ensure a healthier planet. Top Picks: Indian Black and Apricot Blend.
Rishi Tea & Botanicals
Rishi Teas and Botanicals are sourced directly from growers worldwide, blending ancient artisanal cultivation methods with modern culinary innovation. Rishi Tea focuses on sustainability by sourcing tea from organic farms and using eco-friendly packaging. They also prioritize fair trade and direct relationships with farmers.Top Picks: Turmeric Chai and Tangerine Ginger
Tea Forte
Tea Forté offers handcrafted organic tea as part of their commitment to sustainable farming and healthy living. Offering both loose teas and tea sachets, their tea ingredients represent less than 1% of all the teas available worldwide. All their teas have also earned USDA Certified Organic status. Top Picks: Bombay Chai and Belgian Mint
Davidson’s Organics has been supporting fair trade certified since the 1994 inception of “Fairtrade Mark.” All their teas originate from small tea producers or disenfranchised farmers around the world, and they are committed to supporting the welfare of their people and community. They donated a portion of their profits to The Organic Center, an arm of the Organic Trade Association (OTA). Top Picks: Classic Chai and Tulsi Signature Spice