Sustainability

Eco Goodness

Carmién is committed to keeping its farms and work methods earth-friendly and safe. We have been awarded several certifications, including Organic, Rainforest Alliance, and Fairtrade, ensuring that we comply with strict international regulations to help us protect our environment with sustainable farming practices for generations to come.

Protecting Nature

Peartree Photography | 171115 Carmien Tee | http://peartree.co.za/blog/

As the producer of a natural resource with a deep connection to the land, its people, and its heritage, Carmién Tea seeks to honour this richly storied ingredient and the place where it has grown and been enjoyed for centuries. We take a proactive approach to conservation through efforts such as:

Setting aside more than 50% of farm hectares as pristine, undisturbed areas.
Minimising the use of synthetic chemicals in production.
Prohibiting hunting and wildflower picking.
Creating wildlife corridors across the landscape that connect fragmented habitats, allowing animals to safely move between them.
Ongoing efforts to raise awareness among workers and educate the community about the importance of conservation.
Integrated Environmental Management Plan to guide sustainable farming and operational practices.
Beekeeping initiatives to promote pollination and biodiversity.

Reducing Our Carbon Footprint

Through continuous innovation and responsible practices, we aim to minimise our carbon footprint while ensuring the efficient use of natural resources.

Recycling initiatives include the use of 100% recycled material for inner and outer Rooibos tea cartons.
All filter paper used for Rooibos tea bags is fully compostable and made from cornstarch or sugarcane fiber, countering microplastics.
Rooibos tea waste is repurposed as mulch for gardens, ensuring no organic material is wasted.
Use of peach pits (the only waste from fruit drying) for paving to reduce dust and erosion.
Coordination of combination loads for transport between different departments and companies within the group, maximizing efficiency and reducing emissions.
Implementation of the Noda-tech diesel app to optimize and track fuel efficiency and route planning.

Eco-Friendly Packaging

At Carmién Tea, we are dedicated to reducing our long-term impact on the planet and its resources by embracing new technologies and materials as they emerge.

Our pyramid teabags are crafted from PLA compostable material, derived from renewable resources such as cornstarch, sugarcane, and cassava. This innovative material is non-toxic and biodegradable and designed to reduce environmental impact while maintaining premium quality and flavour infusion.
Our Cold Brew teabags are made with Bioweb, a sustainable, non-plastic filter paper that ensures an eco-friendly and refreshing tea experience.
All our pillow teabags are made with Fibre+, a non-plastic filter paper that offers a sustainable alternative without compromising on quality.
All recyclable outer packaging is FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified. This means that for every tree used to provide paper, a new one will be planted.
Printing inks comply with environmental protection and consist of materials derived from renewable raw materials.
Glues used are non-toxic, non-flammable (wet state) and suitable for indirect food contact.

Our Promises

Our vision is to establish Carmién as the Preferred Sustainable Rooibos Supplier, with our clients and customers at the heart of what we do.

The entire process from growing the product in the fields to developing the best aroma and flavour is controlled by strict processes and measures. To maintain consistent quality and flavour, we adhere to the following certifications and are regularly audited by all these certification bodies.