Articles on Tea and Sustainability
Single Origin Teas
Last Updated: Aug. 28, 2018A single origin tea is a tea that has been grown and produced in a specific region; this article explains the reasons for buying single origin teas.
Multiple Infusions
Last Updated: Aug. 28, 2018"Multiple infusions" refers to the steeping of tea leaves multiple time, which is an excellent way to bring out the flavor and aromas of whole-leaf teas.
Invasive Herbs for Herbal Tea
Last Updated: Sep. 28, 2017The benefits of harvesting invasive plants for use in herbal tea, as well as practical, ecological, health, and safety concerns with doing so.
Bottled Tea
Last Updated: Sep. 25, 2017RateTea does not list bottled teas, but we do refer people to companies selling unsweetened bottled iced tea.
Fair Trade Tea
Last Updated: Dec. 31, 2014Fair trade tea: what it is, what problems it intends to solve, and criticisms and limitations of the fair trade movement.
Organic Tea
Last Updated: Dec. 31, 2014What it means for tea to be organic, why organic tea is important, and how to exercise caution with organic labelling.
Ethical Tea Partnership
Last Updated: Apr. 28, 2014The Ethical Tea Partnership is a non-profit organization funded by member tea companies, seeking to promote address social issues in the tea industry.
Tea and Sustainability
Last Updated: Jan. 13, 2014Sustainability as it pertains to tea: fair trade, organic agriculture, packaging, composting, energy usage, and locally grown tea.
Nylon Tea Bags - Safety and Environmental Impact
Last Updated: Dec. 20, 2013Some tea bags are made out of nylon; nylon is not the most environmentally sustainable choice of material for a tea bag as most nylon is not biodegradable.
Composting Tea Leaves and Tea Bags
Last Updated: Oct. 31, 2013Composting tea is a great way to promote sustainability. Loose tea can be composted or added directly to gardens as mulch.