In 2019, 88 Graines created the project ‘Let’s help to clean Guatemala’ with the aim to design and implement a waste management and recycling program for the Acatenango and Huehuetenango coffee regions of Guatemala.
Both regions lack access to any type of waste removal structure. This is especially visible in rural areas, where all waste is disposed of on the side of main roads or local rivers. One of the first initiatives to promote this cause was the collaboration between Hard Beans, CoffeeDesk, 88 Graines and three coffee producers: Raul Perez from La Soledad farm, Diane Ovalle from Buenos Aires farm and Hector Ovalle from El Oregano farm. We created a signature coffee blend that helped us to gather funds for local school educational programs as well as recycling bins purchase.
From each coffee bag sold, 0,5 $ was dedicated to support this important sustainability initiative. People from coffee businesses wishing to support this particular cause are free to choose how and in any way they would like to join the project.
Program 2019
Impact initiated by the program
Thanks to the funds that we gathered as a team and the personal support from the Hard Beans’ roaster, Krzysztof Barabosz we were able to organize educational programs that we joined for.
Together with Krzysztof and Guatemalan Natural Reserves we spent a whole day at Acatenango and Huehuetenango local schools.
The theme of the school programs was RECYCLING, REUSING, REDUCING (3R) where trained staff members from Natural Reserves gave talks about the importance of proper waste disposal. The kids were engaged in educational games and activities which resulted in a great response and success.
We also were able to purchase recycling bins to support and continue the proper waste disposal idea. Additionally we purchased and donated water filters to one of the local schools that struggles with clean water access.
We are extremely grateful for this opportunity and initiative that created a positive impact in small towns of Guatemala.
3 K$ raised to support program
50 recycling bins installed
380 children educated about recycling
"Let's help to clean
Guatemala"
88 Graines contributes $0,25 from each kilogram of coffee that participates in the program.
We are open to collaborations with local coffee roasters and businesses that would like to partner with us for the program.
PARTICIPATING FARMS
Program 2019 - Present
Objectives for 2024
Raise $5K to support the program
Educate 1000 children from local Acatenango and Huehuetenango schools
Installing 100 recycling bins in local schools and farms
Purchase and instal water filters and tanks (1000L) in Huehuetenango local schools for clean water access
Our future program goals
We aim to:
– Continue and reinforce our 3R educational programs in local rural schools and farm communities
– Installing recycling bins in local rural schools and coffee farms
– Creating and designing a a general waste removal program and infrastructure