In 2019, the UN formally declared May 21 as International Tea Day. (Image: Shutterstock)
In India too, tea is not only one of the most consumed drinks, but also an important part of relaxation time amidst work and busy days.
Every year on May 21, tea lovers around the world gather to celebrate International Tea Day. It's the day to honor a drink deeply rooted in world history and culture. This day isn't always just about drinking your favorite drink; is an important reminder of the social and financial aspects of tea production and emphasizes the need for sustainable practices.
The inaugural celebration of International Tea Day took place in 2005 in major tea-producing countries such as India, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Kenya to focus on the plight of tea people and the changing tea market.
“The tea industry is a major source of income and export earnings for some of the poorest countries and, as a labor-intensive sector, provides employment, especially in remote and economically disadvantaged areas,” the United Nations reports.
Recognizing this issue, in 2019 the UN formally declared May 21 as International Tea Day. This underlines the importance of the drink beyond its regular consumption and links it to global financial balance and cultural history.
The importance of tea in global cultures
Tea is more than a drink; It is an integral part of cultures around the world. In Britain, the afternoon tea lifestyle is almost sacrosanct. At the same time, in Japan the tea ceremony is an art form and a meditative exercise.
In China, tea has been an image of harmony and enlightenment for centuries. Economically, the tea industry supports hundreds of thousands of livelihoods specifically in rural areas.
In India too, tea is not only one of the most consumed drinks, but also an important part of relaxation time amidst work and busy days.
Way to celebrate International Tea Day
- Host a tea partyInvite friends or family to a tea tasting gathering where you explore the different flavors of tea, whether it's the herbal notes of lemongrass tea, the robust flavor of black tea, the sensitive nuances of white tea, or the flavor oolong tea floral. Each variety tells a story about its place of origin and cultivation method.
- Immerse yourself in tea cultures.Immerse yourself in the traditions of tea drinking around the world. Visit different themed restaurants or organize tea ceremonies like the one in Japan to understand the customs. It will enrich your appreciation of tea practices around the world.
- Support the practice of fair tradeSupport fair trade practices by selecting tea manufacturers who ensure their workers are paid fair wages and working conditions are good. Look for certifications like Fair Trade or Rainforest Alliance that ensure your purchase contributes to sustainable practices.
- Visit a tea plantation.If possible, visit a local tea plantation. Witnessing firsthand the meticulous tea production method provides a deeper connection to the tea you consume every day. Many plantations offer tours that will involve tasting different types of tea and understanding sustainable farming techniques.
- Grow a tea gardenFor those with green thumb, starting a tea garden can be a delightful endeavor. While growing Camellia sinensis may be climate dependent, herbal teas such as chamomile mint and lemon balm can thrive in numerous conditions and provide clean, homegrown tea options.
How to support sustainable tea practices?
- Opt for organicChoosing natural tea supports agricultural strategies that use natural pesticides and fertilizers that promote healthier ecosystems. Look for natural certifications to ensure your tea is organic.
- Minimize wasteReduce your ecological footprint by choosing tea leaves and local tea instead of packaged ones and tea bags. Loose leaf tea usually comes with much less packaging. When using tea bags, choose biodegradable or compostable options.
- Educate and defendRaise awareness, read and discuss the importance of sustainable tea production and local tea plants. Share information with your network, participate in local events, and use social media to spread the word.
- Reuse tea leavesGet creative with leftover tea leaves. They can be composted to use in your garden soil. They can also be reused in other home remedies and skin care, bringing them closer to a zero-waste product.
