Free Online Coffee Courses and Certifications 2024

What Are the Best Coffee Certifications?

Bird-Friendly by Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center. This certification is the only true "shade-grown" certification, developed by ecologists to protect the habitat of migratory birds and other wildlife. To earn this certification, coffee farms must meet strict criteria for organic production, canopy height, shade cover, vegetation diversity, and native tree species.

USDA Organic by United States Department of Agriculture. This certification ensures that coffee is grown without the use of synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, or genetically modified organisms. To earn this certification, coffee farms must follow organic standards for soil management, pest control, crop rotation, and biodiversity conservation.

Rainforest Alliance by Rainforest Alliance. This certification promotes sustainable agriculture practices that conserve natural resources, protect wildlife, and improve the livelihoods of farmers and workers. To earn this certification, coffee farms must comply with a set of environmental, social, and economic criteria that cover topics such as water management, waste reduction, labor rights, and climate adaptation.

UTZ by Rainforest Alliance's UTZ. This certification focuses on improving the quality and productivity of coffee farming while ensuring environmental and social responsibility. To earn this certification, coffee farms must follow good agricultural practices, respect workers' health and safety, protect natural resources, and trace their products from farm to market.

Fair Trade Certified by Fairtrade International. This certification aims to empower small-scale farmers and workers by ensuring fair prices, decent working conditions, community development, and environmental stewardship. To earn this certification, coffee farms must belong to a democratic organization, adhere to minimum social and environmental standards, and receive a fair trade premium for their products.