Frequently asked questions
Why is sustainability such a big deal for PG tips?
Well, we’re actually the first major tea company to make such a large-scale commitment to producing tea in a sustainable way. And this is the first time the Rainforest Alliance has audited tea farms.
How will this reform the tea industry?
It will:
a. Reassure you about the source of the tea you enjoy drinking.
b. Improve the income and livelihoods of people in the tea plantations where we source our tea.
c. Protect the environment and wildlife.
Why are you only doing this now?
Sustainability isn’t new to PG tips. We’ve been working to ensure the sustainability of our East African tea estates for over 15 years, and have long been committed to good practice in tea cultivation, manufacture and supply. In 1998 we developed a set of 10 sustainability indicators covering social, economic and environmental factors. And in 2002 we published our own sustainable agriculture guidelines, which approximately two-thirds of our tea suppliers now meet. But we wanted our tea to be fully sustainable, so we asked the Non-Governmental Organisation, the Rainforest Alliance to certify all our suppliers.
Why did you choose the Rainforest Alliance to certify your tea?
The Rainforest Alliance has a worldwide reputation for being an enlightened, independent organisation. It already has a wealth of experience in crops like coffee and fruit, and already works with other multi-national companies like Kraft and Innocent Drinks. The Rainforest Alliance has a rigorous certification process, which covers social, economic and environmental factors. These include water conservation, wildlife protection, fair treatment and good working conditions for workers, and soil management and conservation.
How long will it take before all PG tips tea is certified sustainable?
The Rainforest Alliance has already begun to certify our tea suppliers and our aim is that all of our tea will come from certified farms by 2010.
How can I find out more?
If you have any questions about PG tips or the Rainforest Alliance, just send us an email.
