Mexico "Chiapas"
Farmers consisting of indigenous Mayan peoples from
the tribes of Tzotzil, Tzeltal, Mame, Chuj and Zoque were concerned
about chemical inputs, soil erosion, fish and bird deaths, and the
emigration of their young people seeking jobs. In addition, they
wanted to improve quality and yield, and get affordable credit. So
in 1992, they formed the FIECH, Coffee from the Indigenous
Ecological Federation of Chiapas. The state of
Chiapas is located in the Sierra Madre Mountains and receives
the perfect combination of rainfall and sunshine to create this strictly high grown
bean.
In its short existence, FIECH farmers have built a modern warehouse with
high-technology equipment for quality control. The co-op has
provided technical assistance, repaired machinery, built school
dormitories, developed women's programs and created a community
lending bank. Farmers have tripled their average income by
converting to organic production. They have used their resources to
improve their homes, further their children's education, and provide
better food and health care for their families.
This particular fairly traded, organic,
shade grown, and bird friendly coffee is served in finer restaurants
throughout Mexico. In 1996, just 4 short years after forming, the
Mexican government awarded the
cooperative the National Ecological Prize for environmental
stewardship.
About this
certified coffee: Each bag has a certified paper trail leading back
to the FEICH co-op, confirming that the coffee was
grown under shade, organically and responsibly, and the
farmers received fair wages for their hard work.
 Chiapas coffee growing region making use of terracing
(note rows on lower slope of hillside)
 Close-up view of the coffee being grown under shade
trees and providing habitat for all wildlife
This Month's
Special
Buy Here
Your coffee is not
roasted until we receive your order, guaranteeing the
freshest coffee possible.
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