Green is the New Black – Bird and Wild

We’ve heard plenty in the media recently about the welfare of our planet.  About the health of our oceans.  The problematic plastic pollution.  I’d like to think that it has persuaded the majority of people to sit up and pay attention.  I know for me personally, it’s prompted a thorough evaluation of how I live my life, the products that I buy and use and what I actually can do to make a difference.  That’s where the idea for this blog series comes in – “Green is the New Black” will feature a diverse range of companies, small businesses and/or individuals who are all doing their bit to keep our world healthy.  When I began to brainstorm this idea and speak to people about it, I was quite shocked to repeatedly hear that this is all “too little too late.”  Perhaps we should’ve been tackling some of these issues before now, but just because we weren’t doesn’t mean we can’t.  If we all have the attitude that “it makes no difference now” then we’re pretty much screwed right?  And I’m an optimist, so I’m going to keep doing what I think is right, keep putting my money where my mouth is and keep telling you all about it.  Which brings us to our first feature of the series – Bird Friendly Coffee and in particular, Bird and Wild.

Now this little pocket rocket of a company are doing a whole heap of exciting things.  Not only is the coffee organic and fair-trade; it’s actually shade grown.  Now, if like me you have no idea what this really means, lets me explain a little more. Coffee, traditionally was grown under other trees that provided shade. However, since the 70’s, in a bid to boost production, new sun-tolerant coffee plants were developed. Sadly, this type of open planting is not only unsustainable, but it also damages the soil and depletes the species of migratory birds that live and thrive on such sites.  For example, research shows that as few as 6 – 12 species of birds were found on an unshaded coffee site in Mexico. When you compare this to the 184 species found on a single shade grown coffee site in a similar area, it’s pretty obvious how much damage the mass production of coffee is doing.

So why drink bird friendly coffee?

Bird and Wild has been certified as a Bird Friendly Coffee by the Smithsonian Institute in Washington.  No other bag guarantees that every bean is produced organically and under high-quality shade.  This in turn then ensures tropical “agroforests” are preserved and migratory birds can find a healthy haven.  It also helps to support plant and insect diversity. But if that wasn’t enough, 6% of Bird and Wild’s sales are donated to the RSPB. I should probably also mention here that it tastes pretty great too.  I love my coffee, and sitting in my garden enjoying a delicious blend feels so much better when I know it’s helping to support the environment. I sampled the seasonal blend of Bird and Wild, which is very smooth and has chocolatey tones.  It is ground for use with all coffee makers.

If this has sparked your interest, one little click will take you to Bird and Wild’s shop and to a list of other stockists so you can get your hands on your own bird friendly coffee.  You can even use the voucher code BIRD at the checkout for 10% off.

Do the right thing…. it feels good

Beth Anne xoxo

If you think that you and/or your business are doing something that I need to hear about for this “Green is the new Black series” then please get in touch by following the instructions on the contact page.

*I do not receive any affiliate payment from Bird and Wild should you decide to purchase their coffee.  All opinions are my own.*