Corporate Social Responsibility
Valentina, one of the cofounders, visiting Farmers in Montebonito
The founding of Tinto Roots was driven by a profound sense of fairness toward those who labour tirelessly in the mountains and fields of Colombia. Despite facing numerous challenges, including conditions of conflict, these individuals are responsible for cultivating our food—and most notably, our daily morning coffee.
With this in mind, Tinto Roots’ Corporate Social Responsibility Team (CSRT) is dedicated to improving the lives of coffee farmers and workers involved in the production process, while ensuring the long-term sustainability of this important social project.
Our Corporate Social Responsibility is built upon three fundamental pillars:
CSR – Environmental Responsibility
In the coffee industry, environmental sustainability has become an urgent concern. Climate change, deforestation, and resource depletion pose critical threats to the future of coffee production.
Tinto Roots places great importance on environmental stewardship, working alongside coffee farmers to implement sustainable practices that protect ecosystems. We actively promote practices that minimize environmental impact, such as transforming coffee production and roasting waste into valuable secondary products like coffee peel tea, organic husk fertilizers, and coffee pulp. These efforts ensure that coffee can continue to be produced sustainably for generations to come. (See some of our products to learn more)
Don Oscar's Farm, in the State of Risaralda
CSR – Ethical and Economic: A “Real Fair Trade”
Fair Trade certification aims to ensure coffee farmers receive fair wages, work in safe conditions, and adopt environmentally sustainable practices. However, not all coffee labelled as Fair Trade truly meets these standards. Unfortunately, some larger companies exploit the term "Fair Trade" without genuinely supporting ethical wages or responsible production practices.
The founders of Tinto Roots were born and raised in Colombia, and through their close ties with coffee farmers and local communities, they have discovered the deceptive nature of “Fair Trade.” Farmers often report that many companies fail to pay a fair price for their coffee beans. These unfair transactions discourage farmers from continuing to grow coffee, as they find more profitable alternatives.
To offer a "Real Fair Trade" experience, Tinto Roots ensures that farmers receive a fair price for their coffee, regardless of fluctuations in international coffee bean prices. This pricing stability provides farmers and their families with greater security for both their livelihoods and their coffee plantations. Additionally, each coffee package features a QR code linked to testimonials from the farmers and workers involved, allowing consumers to connect with them directly and engage with the authenticity of the process. These practices ensure transparency and trust, helping to foster a more sustainable and equitable coffee industry. (See some testimonials)
Farmer and his Family in the town of Filandia
CSR – Philanthropic: Rehabilitation Programs
In many coffee-producing regions, particularly those affected by conflict or social unrest, farmers face not only economic challenges but also social exclusion and trauma. Tinto roots contribute to Colombian community cohesion by supporting coffee farming programs for convicts during the last year of condemn providing opportunities for individuals to reintegrate into society with more and better skills.
A portion of the profits from the sales of the coffee produced by the prisoners is allocated to them after completing their penalty time, offering crucial financial support as they transition back into society.
By doing so, we help foster unity among prisoners, coffee farmers, and the broader community, empowering them to work together toward a more positive future and improved livelihoods.
Convicts from the Colombian community cohesion program