Beyond organic, Marley Coffee is ITAL, shade-grown on bio-diverse land with no pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers or other additives. All of the coffee that we roast is grown under a canopy of rainforest-preserving shade trees at an elevation of over 3000 feet. Shade grown and organic farming methods make for healthier soil, prevent water contamination and provide habitat for dozens of species of migratory birds. They are also a critical component of Marley Coffee’s exceptional flavor.

Farms that slash and burn their fields for full sun penetration may have higher coffee yields and reduce their costs, but they badly damage sensitive ecosystems. Shade grown coffee grown on bio-diverse farms creates a more complex, high quality cup of coffee, while maintaining sensitive ecosystems.

We consider farmworker treatment, compensation and workingconditions a part of the responsibility of ITAL cultivation. We believe that ethical coffee tastes better!

Marley farmworkers are paid twice the average wage, and through the Marley Coffee Foundation, recreation opportunities are provided for farmworker children worldwide.

FORMAL FAIR TRADE & ORGANIC CERTIFICATION VS. ENVIRONMENTAL REALITIES

We grow and source only the highest quality coffee available, while providing direction for and encouragement of sustainable coffee farming methods. Whether a partner farm is formally certified organic, shade grown, or fair trade certified, what matters most to us is the ecological reality of the farm, its commitment to environmental stewardship, and the way we can partner in the unequivocally fair and generous treatment of its workers. In this, you have our commitment in the ITAL seal found on every Marley Coffee bag.