The Project
(Why trade directly)
Producing great coffee with an environmental conscience was the first goal. The foundations had been laid long before; rich volcanic soils at the perfect altitude and naturally irrigated by spring waters, coupled with ancestral knowledge about growing a temperamental plant. However, developments to minimise the use of natural resources, reduce and recycle waste, and increase energy efficiency were overdue.
That has been the first success. While maintaining the focus on gentle handling of the produce, systematic processes that go beyond the industry standards were implemented. Now, La Noria Coffee Farm has been recognised with an array of international sustainable agriculture and fair trade certifications (Rainforest Alliance, FLO-CERT/Fairtrade, UTZ and 4C). Quality control and improvement programs have also been introduced, seeing the final product reach excellent characteristics and great consistency. Cafe de la Noria has been cupped locally and in several settings worldwide, obtaining a fantastic response. But, there is a long way to go in order to translate these achievements into tangible rewards for the coffee growers and their families, the cafeteros. For decades, private exports of coffee from Colombian farms have been dominated by entrenched networks of intermediaries. Although crucial in getting the world to know and enjoy the quality product that Colombia has to offer, this mediation comes at a high price to the producer. The coffee growers traditionally receive the narrowest margin of profit and are left to endure the adverse local social, economic and environmental conditions. Even in the current era of social and environmentally aware consumers, it is ultimately the market that prevails. Thus, many cafeteros remain relegated to low wages and limited access to a deficient public health and education system that falls particularly short in the regions. Some of them often struggling to meet basic living standards. Our ultimate goal is to provide enduring welfare for the cafeteros. Their hard work is the key ingredient that goes into the cup of the coffee drinker, yet their compensation is hardly equitable to that of the other players. Closing the gap between consumers and producers is certain to contribute in this pursuit. As well as ensuring fair working conditions for our workers, we participate in a number of initiatives that contribute to the entire community. Trading directly in the final markets, traceability and therefore, authenticity, are guaranteed. Having Cafe de la Noria, no matter where you are, is effectively making a difference for our cafeteros. |
Sadly, as every Colombian abroad is constantly reminded by remarks of people with no ill-intention, Colombia’s biggest reputation is that of being the drug capital of the world. Yet Colombians are far from proud of this title. Although the country is, in fact, a leading producer of narcotics, this is so only thanks to having the ideal natural conditions for the growth of the plants from which they are extracted. Paradoxically, these are the same conditions that allow for an unparalleled concentration of biodiversity, the endemic growth of plant and animal species such that new discoveries are still being made, and of course, the farming and extraction of hundreds of premium quality non-illegal products. Thus, Colombia's most famous export could be coffee, flowers, bananas, sugar cane, emeralds, oil, minerals or any of the many others that already have a presence in the global markets. Moreover, the country should be a top holiday destination for the world traveller.
However, in the face of adversity, some may choose, or even be forced, to grow illegal crops, which a thirsty international demand make much more profitable. Regrettably, this has been a curse to the country's entire society, that has endured the proliferation of a corrupt and ruthless sub-culture in a vulnerable segment of the population. We can all help coffee growers prosper in their legitimate trade, if only they receive a fair reward.
However, in the face of adversity, some may choose, or even be forced, to grow illegal crops, which a thirsty international demand make much more profitable. Regrettably, this has been a curse to the country's entire society, that has endured the proliferation of a corrupt and ruthless sub-culture in a vulnerable segment of the population. We can all help coffee growers prosper in their legitimate trade, if only they receive a fair reward.
La Noria Coffee – Premium Estate Coffee – Líbano, Tolima, Colombia
contacto@cafedelanoria.com
Brisbane - Australia + 61 435060639
Colombia +57 3107693246 / Madrid – España + 34 673939424
contacto@cafedelanoria.com
Brisbane - Australia + 61 435060639
Colombia +57 3107693246 / Madrid – España + 34 673939424