International Tea Day is celebrated annually on May 21st to promote and foster dialogue around the labor issues faced by tea workers. It also aims to raise awareness about the importance of fair trade and sustainable tea production. Tea is one of the most popular beverages consumed worldwide, with billions of cups drunk each day. However, the majority of tea plantations employ workers in poor working conditions, with low pay and no benefits. International Tea Day advocates for workers’ rights, higher wages, and improved social security measures in tea gardens worldwide. It emphasizes the need to make the tea trade more equitable and environmentally responsible.
When is International Tea Day celebrated?
International Tea Day is celebrated annually on May 21st.
What is the main purpose of International Tea Day?
The primary purpose is to promote dialogue around labor issues faced by tea plantation workers and raise awareness about the need for fair trade and sustainable tea production.
Which countries have major tea plantations and tea worker populations?
Some of the major tea producing countries with large numbers of tea plantation workers include India, Sri Lanka, Kenya, China, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Bangladesh.
What are some of the labor issues faced by tea workers?
Issues include poor wages, lack of benefits, long working hours, lack of job security, inadequate housing and lack of safety measures on plantations.
How can tea production be made more sustainable?
Sustainable practices include using eco-friendly pest control, rainwater harvesting, recycling tea waste, increasing shade trees and implementing fair trade certification.
What does fair trade certification ensure for tea estates and workers?
Fair trade ensures workers get fair wages, good working conditions, no child labor and a premium is invested in community development projects.
How can consumers support the causes highlighted by International Tea Day?
Consumers can buy fair trade certified teas, be conscious of tea company practices, support organizations working for tea worker rights and reduce waste.
What are the different varieties of tea?
The main varieties are white, green, oolong, black and pu-erh teas, which differ based on the processing methods used.
What are some of the major tea producing regions of the world?
The major tea producing regions include Assam (India), Sri Lanka, Kenya, China (Yunnan, Fujian, Guangdong), Indonesia, Turkey, Vietnam, Bangladesh and others.
Why is tea traded as a commodity crop?
Tea is a commodity crop because of the high global demand, and large quantities are exported from major producing countries.
What organizations promote tea worker rights globally?
Some include the Ethical Tea Partnership, the Rainforest Alliance, the Fairtrade Foundation, and local trade unions.
Are there health benefits associated with drinking tea?
A: Yes, tea especially green tea contains antioxidants and is linked to benefits like improved heart health and anti-aging properties.
