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Coffee isn’t the only morning beverage that needs a green makeover. Many of the same social and environmental problems faced by java drinkers are also prevalent in the tea industry, making the choice of what tea you sip every day an important part of any green lifestyle.
Organic farming has many benefits, not only for the farmers, but also for the future generations of the communities dwelling there. Organic methods protect the soil and water against infiltration by cancer-causing pesticides and other chemicals so that many more generations can lead healthy lives. According to a National Cancer Institute report, farmers who use herbicides regularly were six times more likely to contract cancer than other people. Organic tea also ensures that soil erosion is prevented, water quality remains good, and biodiversity is preserved.
Biodynamic farming is another green method of getting delicious tea leaves without harm to the planet. The biodynamic method is a closed-loop one, requiring that no “outside” influences (like pesticides and herbicides) be used. Instead, these farmers make use of things like cover crops to improve soil health. They also employ homeopathic preparations (containing plants, animal manure extracts, minerals, and compost) to the soil, while following the natural rhythms of the cosmos to determine when to seed and when to harvest. In many ways, biodynamic is one step more serious about environmental-protection than USDA Certified Organic options. Demeter US is the certifying body for this type of gardening.
Like coffee drinkers, tea sippers are serious about flavor and the quality of their tea leaves. Here again, organic has the advantage since organic teas are said to have better flavor. The smell and taste of a delicious cup of organic green tea or mango berry tea is richer and deeper than conventional options.
Additionally, organic tea is often also fairly traded. The Fair Trade Federation, which helps to certify organic teas, ensures that farmers are given a fair wage (at least $1.26 per pound), that workplace safety laws are in place, and that families of farmers receive education and health care. It also helps to stimulate local economies so that they can develop self-sufficiency.
When shopping for your organic tea, look for a total of two labels: one for how the tea was grown, and one for how it was traded. Either the Demeter US label or the USDA Certified Organic will ensure your tea is grown in an earth-conscious fashion, and the Fair Trade logo will guarantee that farmers were treated fairly in the trade. Together, you’ll have a truly sustainable morning (or evening) fix.
So add organic, fair trade tea to your organic food shopping list this year to make a difference for farmers and the planet, too.
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Tea Kettles
By: mudaffar | 07/12/2009Tea Kettles is needed when we are in traveling. Travel tea kettles are increasingly in demand since they are easy to carry and use. Tea or Espresso Coffee are very basic drinks that needed by any person. To make espresso you must buy coffee maker. To have a hot tea you must purchase tea kettles. For using tea kettles you must connect it to electric connection.
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Secret Green Car Detailing Products the Pros Use
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Expert Advice for Green Auto Detailing Products and Tricks
By: Laura Klein | 29/08/2009 | Home ImprovementIt’s that time again—time to work on turning your dirty vehicle into one that sparkles and shines. But taking your vehicle to a professional car detailing service center will cost you upwards of $100 every time, making this an expensive process most of us can’t afford these days. Becoming a DIY car cleaner is a simple way to save money without a lot of hassle.
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Car Care Products for Cleaning Your Carpet
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