Coffee Companies Giving Back to Conservation

Coffee consumption is a morning ritual for people across the world. It also has a major impact on land use, communities of farmers, and ecosystems. While not all coffees have the long list of certifications,  you can be sure that some companies are stepping up to be the "Imperfect Conservationists" and giving back to their communities by supporting local non-profit efforts. Through these efforts, they also are ensuring that strides are made to improve the practices of coffee farming to restore land, and to beat back deforestation, water pollution, and habitat destruction.

Upwell Coffee

Upwell Coffee is taking a unique approach by linking coffee consumption to ocean conservation. With every purchase, $2 from each bag is supporting our partner Remote Ecologist in their initiatives aimed at protecting marine ecosystems and combating pollution in our oceans. Our roaster works with small producers, and is committed to raising awareness about the importance of conserving our planet’s water resources. Upwell Coffee allows coffee lovers to contribute directly to the preservation of our oceans while enjoying a delicious cup.

Purchase a Subscription and Support: Upwell Coffee

Other Companies Involved in Conservation

But here’s MORE good news: some other incredible coffee companies are stepping up and dedicating themselves to creating a more sustainable future. These brands are not only delivering high-quality coffee but also making meaningful contributions to conservation efforts. Here are a few coffee companies making a difference that coffee lovers can feel good about supporting.

1. Grounds for Change

Grounds for Change is a family-owned coffee company committed to sustainability in every aspect of their business. They source 100% fair trade, organic coffee and are certified as Carbonfree®️, meaning they offset all carbon emissions from their coffee production. Beyond their green initiatives, Grounds for Change donates a significant portion of their proceeds to environmental charities and conservation projects. For example, they’ve partnered with organizations to protect old-growth forests and combat climate change.

Website: Grounds for Change

2. Café Direct

Based in the UK, Café Direct stands out for its support of small-scale farmers and dedication to preserving biodiversity. They’re one of the pioneers of the fair trade movement and direct their profits toward initiatives that empower farming communities and conserve the ecosystems these farms rely on. Specific efforts include water conservation projects and supporting the sustainable management of forests in coffee-growing regions.

Website: Café Direct

3. Birds & Beans Coffee

Birds & Beans is famous for its Bird-Friendly®️ coffee certification. This certification ensures their coffee is grown using methods that protect bird habitats and preserve biodiversity. Their beans are shade-grown, which means they’re cultivated under the canopy of trees, promoting forest conservation and providing habitats for migrating bird species. A portion of each sale goes toward bird conservation programs.

Website: Birds & Beans Coffee

4. Peace Coffee

Peace Coffee is a Minneapolis-based company that prioritizes sustainability from farm to cup. They source fair trade, organic coffee and roast it using renewable energy. Peace Coffee also partners with conservation organizations like Climate Generation to support environmental advocacy and mitigate climate change impacts. They make it clear that sustainability is at the heart of their mission.

Website: Peace Coffee

5. Dean’s Beans Organic Coffee

For over two decades, Dean’s Beans has been showing how business can be a force for good. They exclusively purchase fair trade coffee and work directly with small-scale farmers to promote sustainable farming practices. Dean’s Beans funds reforestation projects in coffee-growing regions, supports clean water initiatives, and collaborates with indigenous communities to restore ecosystems.

Website: Dean’s Beans

The next time you’re sipping your morning cup of joe, think about where it came from. By supporting coffee companies that care about the planet, you’re not just fueling your day—you’re contributing to a healthier, more sustainable world. These brands prove that coffee and conservation can go hand in hand. Why not give one of them a try and make your coffee routine even more meaningful? After all, every cup counts!