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.

• 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