Thursday, May 8, 2008

What are your favorite companies?


We here at Visionary Values are in the business of compiling information on the manners in which food companies, specifically those in the natural products industry, conduct themselves according to issues of sustainability. Clearly, consumers have their favorites, the companies they trust and prefer. We are no different and we want to share these details with consumers. 

What makes a company a favorite? What are the factors that you look for when making you purchases?

We like to look for products that are certified organic and fair trade when applicable. We also prefer to avoid GMOs if possible. These days it is getting easier for companies to either directly use renewable energies such as wind or solar or to purchase carbon offsets. We prefer to support companies that have progressive and supportive employee policies such as health care plans, living wages and perhaps encourage and support employees to participate in community or charitable activities.

On a personal level, I like a local company here in Boulder called Conscious Coffees. All their coffee is organic and fair-trade. They have plans to make all their deliveries by bicycle. They re-use, recycle and compost as much as possible. Even the plastic bags that they use to package their bulk coffees are delivered to our local recycling center (another great business called Eco-Cycle) to ensure they are processed properly. They refuse to use the valve lock packaging as there is no available manner to recycle them. They use 100% post consumer waste products in their business and personal activities. Finally, they believe in and greatly value every relationship they have and take great care in ensuring they participate in mutually beneficial interactions. On top of all that - they roast a heavenly and delicious range of coffees!

Check them out at www.consciouscoffees.com

Let us know which companies you admire and why.  Thanks!!

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