When we follow the news pertaining to the environment, if we have any sense of responsibility, we tend to feel guilty and limited. We wish we could help, but we do not know how to do so. We always feel what difference we can make, and often feel overwhelmed by the problems that plague our planet Earth. One NGO called the Rainforest Alliance decided to help in this regard, and make sure that even though we, as individuals, cannot go and personally save our forests and environment, we can do something that helps sustainability.
The vision that drives the Rainforest Alliance is one where people and the environment thrive together. Instead of people thriving on the destruction of natural habitats, their aim is to foster a healthy and sustainable outlook towards the environment. With the added pressure of consumers wanting more and more products, many businesses throw caution to the wind, and apply dangerous and harmful methods when farming the lands. However, as people become more aware of the importance of protecting the environment, changes are being made.
The Rainforest Alliance is aiming not only to change business practices but also consumer behavior. It is a re-education of sorts, where all parties are made aware of the consequences of their actions, and encouraged to adopt a more environmentally friendly attitude.
As stated on their website, "We believe that the best way to keep forests standing is by ensuring that it is profitable for businesses and communities to do so. That means helping farmers, forest managers and tourism businesses realize greater economic benefits by ensuring ecosystems within and around their operations are protected, and that their workers are well-trained and enjoy safe conditions, proper sanitation, health care and housing. Once businesses meet certain environmental and social standards, we link them up to the global marketplace where demand for sustainable goods and services are on the rise."
How do we find the products that meet these criteria? Simple, look for a seal with a frog on it. When you see this seal, it means that at least 30% of the product complies with the Rainforest Alliance’s criteria. Some people believe that 30% is not enough to gain certification, while others see that every bit helps, and that it is an encouraging step nonetheless.
Interested to find out more about the “follow the frog” movement? Watch these videos:
And if interested, check out the Rainforest Alliance website:
www.rainforest-alliance.org