But first... not just any old coffee!
But first... proudly Canadian, organic, fair trade coffee!
Because why should you settle for anything less?
We commissioned BC-based artist Aska Djikia to create a lettering design piece for our mantra. Aska is a lettering artist and graphic designer located in North Vancouver, BC. She is inspired by her mountainous surroundings, and has a deep fondness for plants, fungi, and creatures big and small.
We wanted to work with Aska not only because she's a lovely and talented artist, but also because we adore her distinct lettering style.
And in case you're wondering...
Why fair trade?
Coffee is one of the oldest and most traded commodities in the world. However, it is also one of the worst for intense labour and unhealthy working conditions for its farmers, who are children in many cases. Coffee farmers working on conventional coffee farms often struggle to get by or make any money at all.
Fair trade ensures coffee farmers have decent working environments and are treated and compensated fairly. When you support fair trade coffee, you are making a difference to the wellbeing of coffee farmers, producers, and their families.
Why organic?
Coffee is one of the most chemically-treated crops. Non-organic coffee is grown and treated with synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. These chemicals are toxic and detrimental to human health. To maximize production of coffee, new sun-resistant plants have been developed to allow for easier tending and harvesting, leading to deforestation and destroying the natural ecosystem.
Organic coffee is naturally rich in healthful antioxidants. Organic farms use only organic fertilizers, which means cleaner beans, air, soil, and water. When grown naturally, coffee plants prefer the shade of lush forests, providing a habitat for animals and sustaining a fertile soil.
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Check out our But First Coffee Canvas Tote Bag.
