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Smithsonian Bird Friendly
Coffee that Helps the Environment
Smithsonian Bird Friendly certification is a research-based shade certification offered by the Smithsonian National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute. QCS is pleased to offer this certification for organic, shade-grown coffee operations in Ecuador.
Simply put, this certification ensures through strict standards that coffee is grown on farms that provide quality, forest-like habitat for birds. Rather than being grown on land that has been cleared of all other vegetation, Bird Friendly coffees are planted in the shade of tree canopy.
Benefits include
- conservation of habitat for birds and other wildlife
- protection for migratory songbirds
- increased biodiversity in agroforestry systems
- adherence to 100% certified organic standards
- carbon sequestration that can combat climate change
- farmers’ ability to receive a premium for their products
For more information regarding Smithsonian Bird Friendly certification:
Contact QCS through our Contact page, an email to qcs@qcsinfo.org, or a phone call to (352) 377-0133
