OUR IMPACT
EQUATOR COFFEES
Impact Report
Equator was founded on the idea that what we do and how we do it matters. It’s been co-founders Helen Russell and Brooke McDonnell’s life work and passion to apply that philosophy to coffee, to provide greater transparency into the coffee production process, as well as establish more equitable and sustainable practices in support of a better international coffee economy.
As a B Corp-certified organization - our work is never done. There is no “finish line” when it comes to sustainability work. Instead, we choose to publish this annual report as a check-in with our community, and as a dialogue to share what we’re doing, what’s working, and where we hope to improve.
OUR VALUES
Good Coffee
FROM SOURCE TO SIP
In 2022, we roasted the first harvest of Regenerative Organic Certified™ (ROC™) coffee ever available produced by our partners in Nicaragua, Cooperativa de Servicios Múltiples Sacaclí. This coffee was their first harvest with the ROC label after undergoing the extensive certification process. Regenerative Organic certification represents a more rigorous standard for organic agriculture, and a deeper commitment to soil health, animal welfare, and fairness for farmers and workers.
2022 was also a milestone for our long-term relationship with Mohktar Al-Khanshali, known as the “Monk of Mokha.” Equator was the first roaster to offer coffee from Mokhtar’s own farm Al-Khanshali Estate, deepening our relationship with Mokhtar and Port of Mokha.
Kind People
A CULTURE OF KINDNESS
At Equator, our people are our reason for being and are the heart and soul of the organization. From trips to origin to evaluate sustainable and equitable international sourcing processes, to the roastery and customer service teams, to the baristas and shift leads who craft delicious drinks day in and day out—none of our work is possible without our people.
We’re committed to making good on our promise to do better for our stakeholders at every step from seed to sip through giveback programs, long-term direct sourcing relationships with partners at origin, and a commitment to caring for our internal teams. At a time when there is so much turmoil and discord in the world, and through the twists and turns - Equator has remained true to that same mission, and our people make that happen every day.
Better Planet
ACT TODAY FOR A BETTER TOMORROW
Being a certified B Corp organization is an active process that creates a continual exploration into all our systems and practices to uncover potential for improvements while recognizing and sharing with our community what’s working. Thoughtfulness and commitment to these values are a part of daily life at Equator.
From investing in Loring Smart Roasters at our roastery and compostables in our cafes to purchasing the most sustainable coffee packaging on the market - our commitment to holistic sustainability is both a daily act and a never-ending process.
