I've been keeping half an eye on the Fair Trade issue. I think it's cool that Green Mountain Coffee Roasters, Inc. has been ranked No. 2 on Business Ethics magazine's 2005 list of "100 Best Corporate Citizens". They've been on the list before, but not as high as No. 2.
Green Mountain has been a pioneer in helping struggling coffee growers by paying them fair trade prices. The company also offers micro-loans to coffee growing families, and each year they contribute at least five percent of their pre-tax profits to support socially responsible initiatives.
Robert Stiller, President and CEO of Green Mountain Coffee Roasters, Inc. said,
"We are honored to join the other excellent companies on this list that have incorporated social and environmental responsibility into daily business practices. This recognition is a direct result of the support we have received from our employees, our customers, and our shareholders who have continued to believe in the positive direction we are moving as we continue to develop a business that is successful and sustainable for all stakeholders and our planet."
It's good to know that successful business doesn't necessarily mean heartless and earth-human unfriendly.
Green Mountain does greening well, but they should take responsibility for their cups' landfill contribution. So many times I have to double my cup because I hate those gluey things. A few weeks ago I got a Hot-Handle with a cup - now that's something Green Mountain should give away. www.hot-handle.com It makes your cup into a safe, comfortable mug. Like a civilized cup. They have a cool T too.
Posted by: Teel | February 10, 2006 at 10:23 AM