EF!J doesn’t necessarily support or endorse the production, consumption, or purchasing of coffee. But being that the current short-termer is addicted to the stuff (seriously, like 3 cups/day) we couldn’t help but share this.
Gimme! Coffee, espresso bar and artisan roaster, recently released an Organic, limited edition “Fracktivist Blend” coffee which supports the fight against fracking in New York State. Two dollars from each bag sold is being donated to Toxics Targeting, watchdog group known for its long-standing efforts to protect the environment in the Finger Lakes and across New York state.
Hydraulic fracturing (also known as “fracking”) is a controversial drilling method that has come under fire from New York state environmentalists and community groups because of the risks it poses to the water supply. Gas companies’ recent efforts to expand fracking from nearby Pennsylvania, where it is already taking place, to New York’s Marcellus Shale, have intensified the fight.
“Coffee is our livelihood, and coffee is 98 percent water, so if we don’t have access to good water, that’s a problem,” said Kevin Cuddeback, CEO of Gimme, during a recent interview with Fresh Cup Magazine. “But beyond coffee we’re human beings, and if companies are nonchalant about pollution, there’s going to be a shortage of potable water. It just seems like there’s way too much at stake to go running into allowing fracking because a few people have dollar signs in their eyes—the potential cost is everyone else who’s dependant on the natural resources that we have. This is our way of thinking globally and acting locally. The issue is worthy of us as an organization doing what we can to promote awareness of it in the general population.”
Toxics Targeting was selected from over a dozen possible organizations to receive the funds since it has a long track record of successful environmental advocacy and has been a leader in the fight against fracking. Gimme! Coffee is pleased to be working with Toxics Targeting to educate our customers about Marcellus Shale gas fracking hazards and participate in key public policy decisions about protecting public health and the environment.
“Fractivist” is available in stores by the bag, online at the Gimme! Coffee web shop and wholesale for restaurants and businesses.
Gimme! Coffee is a New York roaster/retailer with espresso bars in Ithaca, Trumansburg, Brooklyn, and Manhattan as well as an online store that sells coffee and coffee-related products. The Gimme! Coffee wholesale division serves customized coffee programs that feature equipment, training, ongoing brand support, and specialty coffees. For more information, please contact Eric C Lindstrom at eric.lindstrom@gimmecoffee.com or visit gimmecoffee.com.