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FEMALE FORCE Continued from page 38 part of the proceeds. In August, Portland-based roaster Boyd's Coffee became the first to sell a Harvested By Women-certified blend. Fourth-generation Boyd family member Katy Boyd Dutt learned about the certification during one of Jones' origin trips to Guatemala and was immediately interested. "I've been in coffee since I was 15 or 16, and all the while I've known that it is a very male-dominated industry," says Dutt. "But I think it's a lot better today. Women's roles and their impact in the industry are being highlighted and brought to light. People are more aware of what happens at market now." Boyd's Coffee is used to trailblazing—one of the first organic-certified roasters, the company was also among the first to sell Rainforest Alliancecertified coffees, which support ecological sustainability at origin. Dutt says the certification has power because its impact can be easily measured. "There are other organizations that support women at origin," says Dutt, "but this certification makes an impact that we know we'll be able to track—where the support CERTIFIED: Boyd's Coffee recently released a Harvested By Womengoes, and how the resources certified roast. are being used." She says Boyd's hopes to release another Harvested by Women-certified coffee late next year. Almost like a logo, certifications are visible credentials that consumers can easily register. They don't even have to change their usual patterns to become more involved; they simply pick up a different package while shopping. As Trent with Pueblo a Pueblo says, "Once coffee buyers, owners or drinkers key into the challenges facing these rural growing regions, providing support is easier than you might expect." While there are myriad ways to take part in the welfare of the industry, supporting women is now as easy as drinking a new morning blend. THE FUTURE OF THE INDUSTRY As we transition from a global marketplace to a global community, and organizations like the IWCA continue to grow, barriers that once seemed insurmountable to women are being overcome not by the work of one, but many. "When women get together, the networking is truly amazing," says Jones, describing how throughout the industry, the task of bettering the lives of women rests on the diverse dedication of many. The future of the industry may be unsure, as climate change takes a toll on crops and diseases like coffee rust threaten the future of farming. But one thing is clear: To survive, the industry needs passionate individuals who are unafraid of change, and ready and willing to fight for what they believe in. In other words, we need women. 40 Fresh Cup Magazine freshcup.com