INTEGRITE Our partner producers

All our partner-tea producers around the world

Korakundah Tea Estate

Terroir

Located between the Mukurthi and Silent Valley national parks, Korakundah Tea Estate stretches across the heights of the Nilgiris, also known as the Blue Mountains, between 1800 and 2400 meters above sea level. This exceptional garden is Fairtrade certified, testifying to a deep commitment to fair trade.

Context and challenges

Despite the challenges posed by global warming, the community overcomes these obstacles with determination, united by ancestral know-how and a common desire to preserve their environment.

Community projects

Through projects focusing on health, education and the preservation of biodiversity, payment of the fairtrade premium has enabled the purchase of three school transport buses, serving the 26 villages around the garden and enabling 1,200 pupils to get to school every day.

Sahyadri Organic Small farmers Consortium

Terroir

Sahyadri Organic Small farmers Consortium is located in Idukki, in the southern Indian state of Kerala. Idukki is characterized by steep hills, mountains ranging in altitude from 700 to 2,300 meters and remarkable biodiversity. The Sahyadri mountain range, meaning "the healing mountains", crosses Kerala as well as several states in southern India. The climate is tropical, with more rainfall in July, and the soil is lateritic and forested. Idukki is rich in water resources, with numerous streams and reservoirs, including the Periyar and Pamba rivers.

Context and challenges

Despite the challenges posed by global warming, the community is overcoming them with determination, united by a common desire to preserve their environment and an unparalleled motivation to acquire knowledge and expertise in organic farming.

Community projects

Payment of the fair trade premium enables the cooperative to finance projects focusing on health, education and biodiversity preservation.

Choke Chamroen Tea

Terroir

Situated at an altitude of 1,350 metres, the Mae Salong region is made up of lush mountain forests, home to numerous endemic and rare species, diverse flora and fauna, as well as numerous water springs. The subtropical climate of the highlands is characterized by relatively cool temperatures throughout the year. In addition, the alluvial and silty soils make the region ideal for tea growing.

Background and challenges

Mae Salong has not always been peaceful. Originally founded by growers from the Chinese diaspora who fled the Communist regime in China in 1949, Thailand's "Little Switzerland" took around 30 years to acquire the expertise needed to produce quality tea, with the support of former Thai king Rama IX.

Community projects

The latter helped improve the region's economic prospects and distance the community from its past association with the opium black market.

Banaspaty

Terroir

The Banaspaty tea garden is located in Assam, a region nestled in northeast India. Banaspaty literally means 'flora and fauna' and lives up to its name with breathtaking biodiversity. Hidden between the deep valleys and wooded hills of the Karbi-Anglong district, the garden benefits from a subtropical climate and numerous water sources with heavy monsoon rainfall. Depending on the terrain, the soil can be loamy or alluvial. A myriad of rare and endangered wildlife species such as the Indian rhinoceros, the clouded leopard and the Asian elephant can be found not far from the garden. The latter is of particular importance to the garden's community, which has held the Elephant friendly™ label for several years.

Community projects

Thanks to location work around movement corridors, elephants move easily along several dedicated routes within the gardens. This organization enables harmonious coexistence, ensuring both the safety of the growers working within the garden and the balance of the elephants moving through it. In this way, Banaspaty is a veritable sanctuary.

K-TEA

Terroir

The tea gardens of Katie Yen, producer of the prestigious wu long, are located in Taiwan's Nantou County, between 600 and 1800 meters above sea level. Nantou County has a subtropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. It is renowned for its picturesque lakes, including Sun Moon Lake - Taiwan's largest lake - and its many rivers. In the lowlands and river valleys of the county, alluvial and silty soils are found, while in the highlands and mountainous areas of the county, soil types consist mainly of shale and eroded volcanic ash. Although much of the water used for irrigation comes from the central mountain ranges, the main source of water is rainfall during the monsoon season, from May to September.

Background and challenges

At present, water stress and drought are of great concern to tea growers in the region. Spring rains, marking the start of the tea harvesting season, have become erratic due to climate change.

Community projects

To protect the soil as well as the biodiversity of her gardens, Katie intervenes as little as possible, letting the vegetation around the tea bushes carry out their natural cycle of growth and decomposition. On a larger scale, Nantou County is also known for its conservation efforts, establishing protected areas and nature reserves. Indeed, many endemic species such as the Taiwan Saro and Formosa Black Bear, as well as numerous reptiles and amphibians, depend on the protection of Nantou County's subtropical forests for their survival.

Ever Harvest

Terroir

Ever Harvest's gardens are located in Nantou County in central Taiwan and Pinglin County in the north. Taiwan has a subtropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Nantou is renowned for its picturesque lakes and mountain teas, while Pinglin, located in the Wenshan mountain range, is known as the birthplace of Baozhong teas. In the uplands and mountainous areas of Nantou county, soil types consist mainly of shale and eroded volcanic ash. In Pinglin district, the soils are made up of forest soils, red and yellow sandstone and shale. Much of the water used for irrigation comes from the central mountain ranges. However, the main source of water is monsoon rainfall, which occurs from May to September.

Background and challenges

At present, water stress and drought are of great concern to tea growers in the region. Spring rains, marking the start of the tea harvesting season, have become erratic due to climate change.

Community projects

To preserve nature and combat global warming, conservation efforts have been deployed across the island, through the establishment of protected areas and nature reserves. Indeed, many endemic species such as the Taiwan saro and the Formosa black bear, as well as numerous reptiles and amphibians, depend on the protection of subtropical forests for their survival.

Small Organic Farmers Association

Terroir

The SOFA - Small Organic Farmer Association - cooperative is one of Les Jardins de Gaïa's long-standing partners. It produces tea and a wide range of spices in the south of Sri Lanka, in the Kandy and Matale districts. The climate is predominantly tropical, but can be subtropical or mountainous at higher altitudes. There are also variations in soil types. In low-lying areas, the soils are alluvial, while in the highlands, the soil is often red and laterite. The Mahaweli River, the island's longest, supplies the districts with irrigation water. Rainfall is regular and increases during the monsoon season. Like the soil and climate, biodiversity here is extremely varied, with endemic animals such as the Ceylon Coryllis and the Langur gris living in the district's tropical forests.

Community projects

The cooperative is Fairtrade certified, enabling the deployment of various agricultural development projects such as the funding of a self-employment assistance program. The latter grants interest-free loans specifically to women, to help them move towards better economic opportunities.

Marginalized Organic Farmers Association

Terroir

The MOPA cooperative - Marginalized Organic Farmer Association - is one of Les Jardins de Gaïa's long-standing partners. It produces tea and a wide range of spices across the south of the island of Sri Lanka, in the Kandy and Matale districts. The climate is predominantly tropical, but can be subtropical or mountainous at higher altitudes. There are also variations in soil types. In low-lying areas, soils are alluvial, while in the highlands, the soil is often red and laterite. The Mahaweli River, Sri Lanka's longest, supplies the districts with irrigation water and is complemented by well-distributed rainfall, especially during the monsoon season. Like the soil and climate, the biodiversity here is extremely varied, with endemic animals such as the Ceylon Coryllis and the Grey Langur living in the district's tropical forests.

Community projects

The cooperative is Fairtrade certified, enabling the deployment of various agricultural development projects. To engage young people in fair trade practices, the cooperative has launched the Youth Empowerment through Sustainable Agriculture initiative, aimed at sharing knowledge of the field, and the values of equity and sustainability that go with it, with young adults aged 18 to 31.

Bughary

Terroir

Bughary produces a wide range of spices across the south of the island of Sri Lanka, in the Kandy and Matale districts. The climate is predominantly tropical, but can be subtropical or mountainous at higher altitudes. There are also variations in soil types. In low-lying areas, the soils are alluvial, while in the highlands, the soil is often red and laterite. The Mahaweli River, Sri Lanka's longest, supplies the districts with irrigation water and is complemented by well-distributed rainfall, especially during the monsoon season. Like the soil and climate, the biodiversity here is extremely varied, with endemic animals such as the Ceylon Coryllis and the Grey Langur living in the district's tropical forests.

Community projects

200 of the 500 producers attached to Bughary are Fair Trade certified, enabling the deployment of various agricultural development projects. Despite the difficulties posed by climate change and the dominant position of large agri-businesses in Sri Lanka, Bugary strives to support its producers, facilitating access to training programs thanks to the fair trade premium.

Guzhang Gaofeng organic tea association

Terroir

Located in western Hunan, China, Guzhang County enjoys a mountainous subtropical climate, with four distinct seasons and significant rainy seasons. The county's ecological importance has been recognized with a national award. It is home to some remarkable protected species, such as the Colchis Pheasant and the Golden Bunting, as well as plant species such as the Ginkgo and the Chinese Yew. The county is particularly rich in water resources, with numerous rivers and reservoirs. The soil is limestone.

Background and challenges

Nestled in the heart of this landscape, Guzhang Gaofeng is a cooperative of small growers whose members belong to the Miao and Tujia ethnic minorities. During the harvest season, farming and tea picking are their main sources of income. Then, in winter, construction work takes over, enabling the producers to support themselves and creating a cyclical way of life.

Community projects

Even the unusual drought of recent years hasn't discouraged the producers, whose fair trade premium enables them to undertake major projects. This has enabled them to acquire land to expand tea production. A clinic close to the villages was also built thanks to the premium and continues to be improved, guaranteeing constant access to care for the producers and their families.

Xuan en'Yisheng tea cooperative

Terroir

Known for its rugged landscapes and deep valleys with karst formations, Enshi is located in the south-western part of China's Hubei province, crossed by the Qing River and its tributaries. Indeed, Enshi boasts numerous water springs and is home to important endemic species, such as the golden monkey and the short-tailed pangolin. The small producers' cooperative is located in the hinterland of Wuling Mountain. Here, atmospheric humidity is high due to the rainforests. The soil is rich in selenium, and growers often plant tea bushes between rocks, giving them better access to minerals and salt.

Context and challenges

The environmental context is uncertain, with frequent landslides and flooding, so the fair trade premium provides leverage for producers.

Community projects

The Fairtrade Premium has enabled the implementation of a road improvement and maintenance project, as well as the purchase of equipment for tea production and transport vehicles for the cooperative's two factories.

Canguan Yisheng organic tea specialized cooperative

Terroir

This cooperative of small producers is located in Cangyuan county, in the southwest of China's Yunnan province. The cooperative brings together almost 200 families, many of them ethnic minorities with close ties to nature. The tea bushes here range in age from several centuries to over a thousand years, producing tea leaves used to make Pu'er. The oldest tea plant, the Xiang Zhu Qing, is over 3,200 years old. Fengqing county lies in the Hengduan mountains, and enjoys a subtropical climate with dry and rainy seasons. The soil is mainly alluvial and numerous rivers, such as the Lancang, provide a reliable source of water for land irrigation.

Context and challenges

Global warming-related weather phenomena such as floods and landslides have tested the cooperative's resilience in recent years.

Community projects

The Fairtrade Premium helps the producer community to overcome these hardships by subsidizing families with modest incomes and financing their children's higher education. It has also enabled producers to modernize their tea production facilities.

Dazhangshan organic tea farmer association

Terroir

Dazhangshan is a cooperative organized by small producers in China's Wuyuan province. The climate is subtropical, characterized by cold winters, hot summers and abundant rainfall from spring to early summer. The landscape is picturesque, with rolling hills dotted with tea terraces. The soil is red clay, which is very common in the region. Rivers such as the Xinjiang and Qinghua provide irrigation for farmland and contribute to regional biodiversity. The local government takes great care to protect and preserve the natural environment. Indeed, Wuyuan province is characterized by its highly diverse flora and fauna and rare endemic species.

Community projects

The small producers' cooperative obtained its fair trade certification in 2001. It was the first tea cooperative in China to be certified. The fair trade premium has led to a significant improvement in the community's quality of life. Producers invest the funds in their children's education and in a tea school. The community is very active in the field of health, safety and certification, regularly running training courses to enable producers to perfect their skills.

Kahangi Tea Estate

Terroir

The Kabarole district is located in western Uganda. The region's environment is largely influenced by the Rwenzori Mountains and the foothills of the Albertine Rift Valley. The climate is tropical, with distinct wet and dry seasons. Soils range from sandy and silty to red clay. The region relies on rainfall for soil irrigation, due to seasonal watercourses. Kibale National Park, close to the Kahangi estate, is renowned for its lush biodiversity and tropical forests. The Sebitoli Project, a great ape conservation project, has been studying the chimpanzee population here since 2008.

Community projects

Sales of teas bearing the Save The Chimps label support the Sebitoli Project through donations of 50 cents per tea bag sold. The garden, created in the 1930s and a contributor to the project, bears witness to a troubled past. Due to political unrest in the mid-70s, it was abandoned until it was bought out in 2001. Since 2006, the entire estate has been managed organically and adheres to permaculture principles to ensure sustainable production of its plantations.

Background and challenges

Today, declining crop yields and lack of access to organic tea markets are challenges for the estate. (3)The country's only certified organic tea producer, Putharjhora employs a majority of female producers from various ethnic backgrounds, all of whom come to grow and harvest tea.

Putharjhora

Terroir

The Putharjhora tea garden is nestled in the heart of India's Dooars region. The landscape is shaped by alluvial plains to the south of the outer Himalayan foothills and to the north of the Brahmaputra river basin. Derived from the English Doors, Dooars is a historic bridge between India and Bhutan. The climate is subtropical, with high humidity and heavy rainfall from June to October. Rivers such as the Teesta and its tributaries play a crucial role in irrigation. The Dooars is home to numerous sanctuaries and national parks, including Gorumara Park, famous for its population of Indian rhinos. Other endemic species include the red-necked hornbill and the Indian elephant.

Background and challenges

In the past, elephants used forest corridors to migrate from the state of Assam to the Nepalese border. Now, due to deforestation, they often wander into tea gardens, damaging infrastructure and panicking local residents. To restore a balance between man and nature, the garden has introduced the "Elephant Friendly" label.

Community projects

Thanks to the fair trade premium, solar panels have been installed, enabling night-time street lighting. Thanks to the "Elephant Friendly" label. A walkway for elephants has also been opened, protecting the community as they pass through the garden.

Snowview Tea Garden

Terroir

Snowview is nestled in the Himalayan plains and is part of the Kalimpong sub-district. For hundreds of years, the nearest town, Kalimpong, served as both a link point and the main conduit for trade between China, Tibet, Nepal, Bhutan, Burma and India. With its largely rugged terrain and steep slopes, the region enjoys a subtropical, high-altitude climate with mild temperatures all year round. The soil is loamy and there are numerous rivers, including the Jaldhaka, which rise in the Himalayan mountains. The monsoon season, from June to September, also brings heavy rainfall. The biodiversity of this region is characterized by natural rainforests, dense bamboo groves and colorful rhododendron canopies. The Neora Valley National Park lies close to the Snowview Garden and provides a haven for endemic species such as the red panda and Himalayan black bear.

Community projects

The garden is Fairtrade certified, and growers live in close contact with nature. Thanks to the fair trade premium, solar panels have been installed, making Snowview a "carbon-neutral" tea plantation. Health initiatives and sanitation projects also continue to develop, putting health and safety at the forefront of community initiatives.

Singell Tea Garden

Terroir

The Singell Garden, opened in 1871 by the British with the aim of bypassing the Chinese tea trade, is one of Darjeeling's earliest tea gardens. Deserted in the 1980s due to social and political unrest, the garden was abandoned for many years before being bought back in the late 1990s. Located near Kurseong in the Darjeeling district, this area is known as the white orchid region. Although it lies at an altitude of over a thousand meters, it enjoys a subtropical climate with pleasant temperatures all year round. The Singell Garden is located close to the Mahananda Nature Reserve, home to many protected species such as the Indian bison, the Royal Bengal tiger and the red-necked hornbill. The soil is lateritic and natural water sources come from nearby forest areas, where streams are held back by small cisterns and reservoirs.

Community projects

Water supply is a concern, as its availability is in question due to deforestation, prompting the community to implement recycling initiatives and awareness campaigns with the help of the Fair Trade Premium.

Chardwar tea garden

Terroir

The Chardwar garden is located in the Sonitpur district, on the north bank of the Brahmaputra River in Assam. Situated close to Kaziranga National Park, the garden is surrounded by coniferous forests and meadows dotted with hills. The district has a subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. There are numerous water springs and lakes such as Rowmari, Dighali, Borsola and Rongapani. Most of the annual rainfall comes from the monsoon, ensuring irrigation of the fields but also causing rivers to overflow and flood the plains. As a result, alluvial soils predominate here. The region is home to an abundance of flora. Evergreen and deciduous trees are home to many endemic species, such as the golden langur and the crowned hornbill.

Community projects

After years of neglect, the reopening of the Chardwar Garden in 2015 led to a much-needed modernization of its infrastructure. The construction of a new factory has increased the quality and quantity of tea produced. Emphasis has also been placed on strengthening fair trade practices. The fairtrade premium enabled the garden to invest in solar panels and well water treatment, thus improving the quality of life of its community. The growers have also invested in soil protection measures to improve rainwater retention and limit the risk of landslides during the monsoon season.

Seeyok tea garden

Terroir

The Seeyok garden is located near Mirik, a picturesque town in the Darjeeling district, close to the Nepalese border at an altitude of over 1,500 meters. The district has a subtropical, high-altitude climate with three distinct seasons: summer, monsoon and winter. Soil types include clayey loam, sandy loam and acidic loam. Water sources include Lake Mirik, as well as numerous streams and springs from the surrounding hills and forests. The region's close proximity to nature makes it a mecca for biodiversity, and wild animals can even be found in the tea gardens. Off the beaten track and in the heart of the nearby forests, you'll find endemic species such as the emblematic red panda, the Himalayan Monal and a profusion of rhododendrons.

Community projects

Over the past few years, this Fair Trade-certified garden has been confronted with soil erosion issues. Fifteen villages are therefore working together with the help of the Fair Trade Premium, undertaking reforestation projects as well as health and education initiatives. Their environmental and social objectives are matched by a determination to maintain the production of high-quality tea and consolidate their reputation as one of the oldest certified tea gardens in the Darjeeling district.

Selimbong Tea Garden

Terroir

The Selimbong tea garden is located in the Darjeeling district, close to the Nepalese border. At an altitude of over 1,500 meters, the garden stretches from the Sukhia forest reserve to the banks of the Balusun River. The district has a high-altitude subtropical climate with three distinct seasons: summer, monsoon and winter. Soils are clayey loam, sandy and acidic. Water resources include the Balusun River and numerous streams and springs from the surrounding hills and forests. The close proximity to nature means that birds such as parrots, woodpeckers, minivets, thrushes and barbets can be observed from the garden.

Context and challenges

Climate change is a real challenge for Darjeeling's only Demeter-certified tea garden, as it is the cause of insect and fungal infestations on the tea bushes.

Community projects

With the help of the Fairtrade Premium, training seminars have enabled producers to acquire the knowledge they need to combat these infestations and maintain the good health of the tea bushes. In addition, medical, social and economic development actions are regularly carried out for the benefit of the community, with the aim of improving their living conditions.

Potong tea garden

Terroir

The Potong tea garden is located in the foothills of the Himalayas, in the Darjeeling district. The region's climate is subtropical, and the rainy season extends from April to September, with peak rainfall in June. The soil is loamy and water resources include numerous streams and springs from the surrounding hills and forests.

Background and challenges

However, previous plundering of natural resources has led to serious water supply problems, and despite new government protection measures, the area is recovering.

Community projects

The Potong tea garden, created over a hundred years ago by the British, has come a long way. Left derelict in the 1970s, the surrounding community came together to form the Potong Tea cooperative and revive tea production. Today, the cooperative works in partnership with the Singell tea factory and has an irrigation system funded by Gaia Gardens to combat water shortages caused by climate change.

Mineral Springs tea garden

Terroir

The Mineral Springs tea garden is located in the foothills of the Himalayas, in the Darjeeling district. The region's climate is subtropical and the rainy season extends from April to September, with peak rainfall in June. The region's soil is silty and rich in organic matter from its forest cover. Water sources are plentiful, with Lake Senchal and the Teesta, Rangeet and Blason rivers providing the garden with water during drier periods.

Community projects

The garden, created over a hundred years ago by the British, has come a long way. Abandoned after India's independence in the 1950s, the garden's community long distanced itself from tea-growing. With the help of outside associations, the community banded together to create the Mineral Springs Tea cooperative and revive tea growing and harvesting. Every year, the cooperative runs permaculture courses for an international audience, a real showcase for the farming community, which also grows ginger, cardamom, oranges and turmeric. The farmers also work as carpenters, masons and herders, making this one of Darjeeling's most dynamic tea cooperatives.

Subarna Small Tea farmers cooperative

Terroir

The Subarna tea farmers' cooperative is located in one of the most rural areas of the Darjeeling district. The growers live in nearby villages, surrounded by thick virgin forests and abundant flora and fauna. The climate is subtropical and the rainy season extends from April to September, with peak rainfall in June. Due to its altitude, the soil is silty, rich in organic matter from the surrounding forests. The region is home to numerous perennial rivers flowing down from the mountains, sometimes in gorges. Pristine forests are home to endemic and endangered species such as the red panda, the Indian leopard and the Himalayan black bear.

Background and challenges

The expansion of human activity on the bangs of the forests has led to a considerable reduction in wildlife, resulting in landslides and flooding during the monsoon season.

Community projects

To combat the effects of deforestation, farmers have implemented sustainable agricultural practices using traditional and organic methods.

Teesta

Terroir

The Teesta cooperative owes its name to the Teesta River, which rises in the Himalayas. Located between 1500 and 1700 meters above sea level, the growers' villages overlook this splendid emerald-green river. Following India's independence, small, disadvantaged producers joined forces to take their destiny into their own hands. The cooperative was created as a result.

Samabeong tea garden

Terroir

Samabeong is nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas in the West Bengal region of India. With its largely rugged terrain and steep slopes, the region enjoys a subtropical, high-altitude climate with mild temperatures all year round. The soil is loamy and many rivers rise in the Himalayan mountains. The monsoon season, from June to September, also brings heavy rainfall. The biodiversity of this region is characterized by natural rainforests, and the Samabeong Garden borders the Neora Valley National Park, providing a haven for endemic species such as the red panda and the Himalayan black bear.

Community projects

The garden is fair trade certified, and the growers are very close to nature.

Samabeong means "the den of the black bear". The land that adorns the hills was abandoned for 30 consecutive years. It wasn't until 1990 that the estate was taken over by Tea Promoters of India. Today, Madame Bhawana Rai, who worked for over 15 years as an assistant, has become the garden's manager. She is the 1st woman in India to hold this position.

Kings Product

Terroir

Kings Product is located in the Cederberg, a mountainous region in the Western Cape of South Africa. The Cederberg has a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. Most rainfall occurs in the summer months, with occasional thunderstorms and heavy downpours. Due to its arid climate, rivers and streams are dependent on precipitation and, as a result, remain seasonal, favoring sandy, silty and acidic soils. Among the unique rock formations are endemic species such as the Cape mountain zebra, klipspringer and Cape leopard, as well as numerous bird species.

Community projects

King's is a family-run business, founded by Dr Frans Van der Westhuizen, a true pioneer of the organic rooibos trade, in 1996. Farms include Klipfontein and Krieberg, each run by family members working tirelessly to develop new projects in line with their values. World Fair Trade Organization certified since 2022, the Fairtrade Premium has enabled this family to broaden their perspective in relation to their business. Initially, they were able to carry out projects within their community, improving not only the living conditions of their workers, but also the future prospects of the community's children. At present, the bonus enables them to sponsor the Graafwater Spesiale Skool school with transport, accommodation and event organization, while continuing to develop new projects that benefit the community.

Wupperthal Original Rooibos Cooperative

Terroir

The Wupperthal farm is located at an altitude of over 1,000 meters in the arid Cederberg highlands of South Africa's Western Cape province. The region is characterized by a Mediterranean climate, with most of the rainfall occurring during the summer months, marked by occasional thunderstorms and torrential downpours. Due to its arid climate, rivers and streams are often seasonal, depending on rainfall. This favors sandy, silty and acidic soils. Wildlife includes the Cape mountain zebra, klipspringer and Cape leopard, as well as numerous bird species.

Community projects and challenges

Faced with the impacts of climate change and the challenge of rural exodus, the Wupperthal cooperative remains determined, transforming its own freshly cut rooibos into a delicious, Demeter-certified beverage using biodynamic farming methods.Also WFTO-labeled, the cooperative is committed to the community through the Fair Trade Premium. It provides support by financing scholarships for students, with the aim of empowering young people in rural areas. In the face of rising temperatures and forest fires, the cooperative also offers training focused on risk prevention linked to natural disasters, while helping to rebuild homes in the village of Wupperthal, ravaged by fire in 2018.

Kanchenjunga Tea Estate

Terroir

Kanchenjunga Tea Estate is nestled in the heart of a tropical, mountainous forest at an altitude of 1,800 meters on a plot of approximately 94 hectares. With well-drained, acidic soil and abundant rainfall, the climate is ideal for tea production. Founded in 1984 by over 100 farmers of different origins, Kanchenjunga Tea Estate is a pioneer in the production of high-quality organic Himalayan Orthodox tea in Nepal.

Background and challenges

Today, soil fertility, deforestation and erosion are major concerns for its farmers.

Community projects

The Fair Trade Premium enables the cooperative to address these concerns through sustainable land management strategies, including the application of eco-responsible farming practices and ongoing training for its farmers.

Sowarte Ltd

Terroir

Sowarte Ltd is based in Kigali, in northern Rwanda. The climate is tropical. Perched at an altitude of 1,500 meters, the city and its surroundings are made up of several hills, creating a very hilly terrain. The soil varies, but is mainly volcanic and lateritic. The tea plantations around the town are located near Lake Kivu, one of Africa's great lakes. Rainfall is also an important source of water. The region is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species, including weavers, grey-crowned cranes and monkeys.

Background and challenges

Over the past thirty years, the frequency of extreme events such as floods and drought has increased in Rwanda. Inflation is also a challenge for tea growers, as it impacts on their ability to obtain a fair price for their tea.

Community projects

Sowarthe is a Fair Trade certified company that has set up numerous social programs to combat climate change and support the community. It has set up nurseries with UNICEF-trained staff, as well as pre-schools. The establishment of a nutrition program provides two thousand nutritional meals a day to pre-school children, while funding for a menstrual hygiene program for women means that teenage girls are equipped so they don't miss school. Finally, Sowarthe sponsors extra-curricular activities and grants scholarships to local students.

The Heiveld cooperative

Terroir

The Heiveld cooperative is located in Nieuwoudtville on the Suid Bokkeveld plateau, in South Africa's Northern Cape province. This is an arid region with a steppe climate. The soils are mainly sandstone, shale and Fynbos. The region depends on underground water sources and rainfall, the latter occurring mainly in winter.

Background and challenges

In recent years, the region has suffered droughts and soil erosion due to wind and rain. These climatic phenomena have led to crop losses, threatening the food security of small-scale farmers. To adapt to climate change, the cooperative is working with scientists on soil and water conservation methods.

Community projects

The Heiveld cooperative was created in 2001 by 14 producers eager to make rooibos an empowering opportunity for the community. Known as "Gold of the Suid Bokkeveld", their rooibos is Fair Trade certified, enabling producers to benefit from a premium. In this way, the cooperative's presence has a beneficial effect on the community. For example, the cooperative has been able to finance driving licenses for community members and install a solar-powered water pump in producers' villages. The premium also makes it possible to invest in the cooperative's development and staff training.

Zealong Tea estate

Terroir

The Zealong estate, located in the Waikato region of northern New Zealand, enjoys an oceanic climate with significant rainfall. Waikato features a variety of landscapes, including flood plains, rolling hills, mountain ranges and rugged volcanoes. Soils are predominantly silty, formed from alluvium of volcanic origin, and the region is abundantly endowed with water sources, including the country's longest river, the Waikato, as well as lakes and groundwater. Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, favoring the presence of endemic species such as the Archey frog and swamp plants like the swamp orchid.

Community projects

The Zealong estate is the brainchild of tea enthusiast Vincent Chen, who in 1996 imported 1,500 carefully selected tea cuttings from Asia's finest tea-growing regions. After a long quarantine imposed by the New Zealand Ministry of Agriculture, 130 cuttings survived. Thanks to careful propagation and the knowledge acquired over the years, the estate now boasts almost 1.2 million tea bushes on 48 hectares of certified organic land.

Phongsaly Saylom Green tea Factory

Terroir

Phongsaly Saylom Green tea Factory is located in the province of Phongsaly, in northern Laos. The region is characterized by its mountainous landscapes and dense forests. Steep slopes give way to deep valleys with a wide range of altitudes up to 2,000 meters. The province enjoys a tropical monsoon climate. Rainfall during the wet season supplies Phongsaly with water for irrigation. During the dry season, the hydrographic network of rivers, such as the Nam Ou, ensures the irrigation function while playing an important role in the local life of the villages bordering the waterways. The region's extensive rainforests are mainly found in slightly acidic, humus-rich soils, and are home to a wide variety of plant and animal species. Endemic species such as gibbons, langurs, elephants and various birds and reptiles inhabit the region, benefiting from government conservation efforts.

Community projects

Since 1994, the Phongsaly authorities have been encouraging agricultural conversion to tea, in collaboration with the region's local communities. Fairtrade certified, over 980 producers benefit from the fair trade premium. These funds enable them to improve village infrastructure by subsidizing medical, administrative and educational services.

Van Chan cooperative

Terroir

This cooperative of small producers is located in the province of Yen Bai in north-western Vietnam. It is characterized by mountainous terrain and deep valleys with considerable variation in altitude. The province enjoys a tropical monsoon climate with generally high humidity. The soils are mainly ferrallitic, typical of tropical mountainous regions. Rainfall during the rainy season supplies the province with water and maintains a good level of soil moisture. Outside periods of heavy rainfall, several rivers crossing Yen Bai, such as the Thao River and its tributaries, play a crucial role in irrigating farmland. The region's tropical forests are home to many species of trees and medicinal plants.

Community projects

The Van Chan cooperative was founded in 2004 with the aim of exporting organic produce produced by ethnic minorities in the high mountains of Yen Bai. Faithful to their languages and customs, these producer communities are committed to preserving their culture while improving their living conditions. Fairtrade certified, the fair trade premium has enabled projects linked to business development to be carried out, through training, expansion of production areas and infrastructure improvements. One example is the reconstruction of a bridge in the Suoi Bu commune, following storm damage. The premium has also been used to finance organic farming training courses for all members.

Ban Lien cooperative

Terroir

The Ban Lien cooperative of small-scale producers is located in the commune of the same name, in the heart of Vietnam's Lào Cai province. The commune is dominated by mountain ranges ranging in altitude from 800 to 1,500 meters. The landscape here is characterized by deep hills and valleys benefiting from a subtropical monsoon climate. The soils are mainly ferrallitic, typical of tropical mountain regions. Rainfall during the rainy season supplies the province with water and maintains a good level of soil moisture. The rainy season begins in May and ends in October, with particularly abundant rainfall in July and August. Outside these periods, several rivers cross the Yen Bai, playing a crucial role in irrigating farmland. The province is rich in biodiversity, with forests home to numerous species of trees, medicinal plants and bamboos.

Community projects

The Ban Lien cooperative has been Fair Trade certified since 2015, and as such benefits from an annual premium whose impact on the community is significant. The premium has helped finance the schooling of 37 high school students as well as the upkeep of the school library. In addition, the bonus has subsidized the renovation of roads, improving the delivery of tea to the factory.

Miyazaki

Terroir

Miyazaki is a prefecture located on the island of Kyūshū in southern Japan. It's a sunny place with a subtropical climate; summers are hot and humid and winters mild. Beaches line the coast, while the Kyūshū mountain range cuts across the land. In summer, humidity is high and rainfall is frequent, providing an excellent source of water for tea production. The prefecture is crossed by major rivers, such as the Oyodo. Soil types are sandy-clay, silty and humus-rich. Miyazaki's forests are home to Japanese cedar, camphor and various species of bamboo. Mammals such as Sika deer and wild boar, as well as various species of birds, insects and reptiles, call this region home.

Kirishima, Kagoshima Prefecture

Terroir

Kirishima is a town on the island of Kyūshū in southern Japan. The surrounding area is dominated by Mount Kirishima, an active volcano that dominates a mountainous landscape with a subtropical climate; summers are hot and humid and winters mild. Kirishima receives precipitation throughout the year, with a rainy season in summer. The soils are volcanic, due to the activity of the volcanoes in the Kirishima range. These fertile soils are well suited to tea production. Water resources are remarkable in the Kirishima region, fed by regular rainfall and groundwater. Several rivers cross the region, with the Amori River (天降川, Amorigawa) passing close to Kirishima. In addition, due to its volcanic activity, numerous lakes and craters have formed and become remarkable hydrological features of the region. Because of the altitude, the region's forests are home to a wide variety of sub-alpine and alpine trees, including Japanese cedars, oaks and maples.

Kirishima is famous for its Kirishima-Yaku National Park, which covers an area of around 548.32 square kilometers. A true biodiversity hotspot, the park is home to rare endemic species. Yakushima Island, a Unesco World Heritage site and part of the park, is renowned for its population of Japanese monkeys and Sika deer, which live in harmony with Japanese cedars, some of which are over 7,000 years old.

Shizuoka (Uji prefecture)

Terroir

Shizuoka is a prefecture located in the Chūbu region on the island of Honshu in Japan, Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the mountains, Shizuoka enjoys a diverse topography with a temperate climate, hot, humid summers and mild winters. Shizuoka's soils are predominantly loam, sand and clay. Water resources are abundant, with numerous rivers running through the region, such as the Abe and Oi rivers, providing the natural irrigation essential to tea cultivation. Shizuoka's biodiversity is rich, with mixed coniferous and deciduous forests home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, wild boar and a multitude of bird species.

Shirakawa (Uji prefecture)

Terroir

Shirakawa is a charming village in Japan's Uji prefecture, renowned for its traditional production of Gyokuro green tea. Shirakawa is nestled in a valley surrounded by verdant mountains, offering a picturesque landscape and peaceful atmosphere. The climate is humid subtropical, with hot summers and mild winters. Rainfall is abundant, particularly during the rainy season from June to July, ensuring constant hydration of the tea gardens.

Shirakawa's soils are predominantly volcanic, mineral-rich and well-drained, favoring vigorous growth of tea plants. Local rivers, such as the Uji, provide pure, clear water, essential for irrigating tea fields and producing top-quality Gyokuro.

Shirakawa's biodiversity is remarkable. The surrounding forests are home to a variety of trees, such as maples and Japanese cedars, as well as a diverse fauna including deer and songbirds. This natural richness contributes to the exceptional quality of Shirakawa tea, creating a unique microclimate conducive to the cultivation of Gyokuro. Respect for the traditional growing and harvesting methods of this terroir adds an extra dimension to the sensory experience of this prestigious tea.

Seogwang-ri on Jeju Island, South Korea

Terroir

Suh Sung-whan is the founder of Seogwang. In 1979, he transformed the wasteland near Dosun on Jeju Island into tea gardens producing green tea.

The gardens are located southwest of Mount Halla, an extinct volcano and South Korea's highest mountain, rising to 1,947 meters. Jeju Island is South Korea's largest island. The topography is extremely varied, marked by hills, low plateaus and unique rock formations.

The island enjoys a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters. The rainy season runs from June to September, and there is also a period from April to May when mist falls over the Jeju foothills.

The region's volcanic soils are rich in minerals and magnesium. Numerous underground springs and streams are rain-fed.

The region's subtropical forests are home to a variety of endemic plants such as Camellia japonica and various fern species. The mixed coniferous and deciduous forests are home to a diverse fauna, including birds such as the Jeju pheasant and mammals such as the sika deer and Asian fox. Around the island you'll find notable marine biodiversity, with coral reefs, seaweed home to numerous tropical fish and invertebrates.

Monte Das Aromaticas

Terroir

Located in the Serra de Sao Mamede protected park, east of Lisbon in Portugal, the Ribeira de Nisala farm covers 7 hectares of land, including 4.5 hectares suitable for cultivation, and its founder, Carlos, has been growing some 30 varieties of aromatic and medicinal plants since 2019.

The climate in the Sao Mamede mountains is warm, temperate continental. The farm's plants benefit from ideal sunshine coupled with cool nights due to the altitude and the presence of numerous oak, cork and olive trees. Although the climate is dry, the farm is equipped with 3 wells and several water reserves, including a drip irrigation system. What's more, with varied terrain and an altitude difference of over 300 meters, soil types vary. The upper part is rocky, while the lower part is clay. Given its proximity to the forest, wild animals such as wild boar and chandeliers are present in the area.

Background and challenges

The Ribeira de Nisala farm is Demeter certified and 'Les Jardins de Gaïa' supports its development through a fair trade partnership and investment in agricultural development. Biodynamic farming is 4 times more labor-intensive, as compost preparation requires special attention given the hilly terrain. Similarly, managing the diversity of plants cultivated requires different care and different planting and harvesting periods.

Community projects

Quality-conscious Carlos is involved in agroforestry, seeking out the best combinations of plants and trees.

Sateré Mawé Producers' Consortium (CPSM)

Terroir

In the heart of the Andira-Marau territory, in the Brazilian Amazon, the Sateré Mawé producers' consortium, a community of 16,000 Indians, practice wild harvesting of Lapacho. The Sateré Mawé estate is located at the convergence of the Marau rivers, in the Andira basin. The climate is equatorial, with a rainy season from December to May. The soils are alluvial and lateritic. The region benefits from an abundance of freshwater resources, thanks to the many springs that flow through it. In addition, humidity is high, creating a very humid environment conducive to lush vegetation. The Amazon is one of the richest ecosystems in terms of biodiversity, home to tropical forests that are inhabited by thousands of species of plants and mammals, including the jaguar, capybara, howler monkey and marmoset.

Background and challenges

Created in 1987 by the Sateré Mawé Indians, the initiative to promote and preserve the territory has led to trade with France. The Warana project took shape and enabled the export of warana and Lapacho to the European market.

Lapacho is harvested under often arduous conditions, due to the difficult access to picking areas in the middle of the Amazon. In addition, global warming is affecting biodiversity, making harvesting less predictable and sometimes less abundant.

Community projects

The Warana project enables us to enhance the value of a native product, and improve access to culture, health and education. Through the creation of the University of Wara, the Sateré Mawé Indians are reclaiming their culture while gaining access to higher education. In addition, local populations are being educated and trained to respect biodiversity on a daily basis, in partnership with international forestry networks. Finally, the Sateré Mawé Indigenous Women's Association is developing economic opportunities through traditional handicrafts, in order to grant greater financial autonomy to the women of the community while promoting local culture.

Agulhas Honeybush Tea (AHT)

Terroir

Agulhas Honeybush Tea is a family business located in Bredasdorp, in the Western Cape region of South Africa. This is a region of rolling hills and coastal plains. The Langeberg mountain range can be seen to the north, and sand dunes to the south. Bredasdorp enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Soils vary from sandy to clayey. Water resources come mainly from local rivers, such as the Heuningnes, as well as from rainfall, which occurs mainly in the winter months from May to August. The Cape Floristic Region boasts exceptional biodiversity, and is home to the fynbos biome. This is characterized by dense, shrubby vegetation, home to endemic species such as Swainson's francolins and Bondebok antelopes.

Background and challenges

Honeybush is a shrub endemic to the region, capable of withstanding prolonged drought thanks to a well-developed root system. However, global warming is exacerbating periods of drought, jeopardizing the survival of young shrubs, as their root network is not sufficiently developed to absorb adequate amounts of moisture.

Community projects

The company was set up in 1994 with the aim of growing organic, environmentally-friendly Honeybush tea and developing the South African Honeybush tea industry. Since the 2000s, the company has supported Honeybush producers of all sizes, from cultivation to certification of their Honeybush, bearing the cost of the latter. This encourages a more sustainable production model, resulting in exceptional product quality for international and local markets.

Carmien Tea Bergendal Farm

Terroir

Bergendal Farm is located in South Africa's Western Cape, at an altitude of 650 meters, in the heart of the Piekenierskloof mountains. Bergendal enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Soils vary from sandy and loamy to fynbos. Water resources come mainly from local rivers, groundwater and rainfall, occurring mainly in the winter months from May to August. The Cape Floristic Region boasts exceptional biodiversity, and is home to the fynbos biome. This is characterized by dense, shrubby vegetation, home to endemic species such as Swainson's francolins and Bondebok antelopes.

Context and challenges

Climate change in the Western Cape means less frequent rainfall, higher temperatures and forest fires, as well as more frequent heatwaves. Although rooibos is perfectly adapted to this hostile environment, it still depends on regular rainfall to promote its growth and enable young plants to take root.

Community projects

Fair trade certified since 2003, Carmien Tea has chosen to open up its capital to employees by offering them a stake in the company. As a result, producers from the Bergendal farm hold shares in the company. A democratically elected committee implements a development plan with a fair trade premium. Education is one of the most important investments, and the premium is used to support local schools and the transport of schoolchildren. The provision of a scholarship helps support students through to higher education. Secondly, community development, a local theme, finances public transport, infrastructure construction and the implementation of an environmental protection plan. Finally, health is very important to the community, which has set up a monitoring program and a nutrition program.

Moringa Spain

Terroir

Moringa Spain is located in the Axarquía region of Spain. Located in the province of Malaga in Andalusia, the area is characterized by a variety of relief ranging from coastal plains to the Sierra de Tejeda mountain range, with peaks reaching over 2,000 meters in altitude. The region's climate is typically Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Soils vary from limestone in the mountains to clay and silt in the plains. The region benefits from a variety of water sources, thanks to rivers such as the Vélez and Guaro, as well as the La Viñuela reservoir. Rainfall occurs mainly from October to May. Biodiversity is very diverse, with Mediterranean forests home to rare birds such as eagles, falcons and storks, as well as wild boar and foxes.

Sicarappam

Terroir

Sicarappam is located in Auvergne, on good old French soil. One of the characteristics of the region is the Massif Central, comprising mountains of volcanic origin such as the Chaîne des Puys, as well as extensive plateaux such as the Aubrac plateau. The region's altitudes vary, with a mountain climate in the highlands and a continental climate in the plains and valleys. Located in the commune of Aubiat, the soils around the cooperative are volcanic, clayey, silty and alluvial. The region benefits from a variety of water sources, including rivers, groundwater and regular rainfall. Biodiversity is rich, with a diverse flora and fauna reflecting the different natural habitats of the Auvergne region.

Background and challenges

SICARAPPAM is an agricultural cooperative of producers of medicinal and aromatic plants. Created in 1987, it works to produce quality plants that are harvested and cultivated in a sustainable manner. Today, the cooperative is made up of some fifty producers who pick between February and November throughout France, giving priority to direct sales and long-term relationships.

Community projects

Thanks to its wealth of experience, the cooperative is working to further diversify its plants, enabling it to collaborate with professionals from the plant world.