On the occasion of International Tea Day celebrated on December 15 every year, I present you this blog to raise awareness on the impact the tea trade has on farmers and workers and its celebration by every tea lover. As a tea lover myself, I feel a soothing cup of tea is a cup of peace. As Jonathan Stroud says, "Making tea is a ritual that stops the world from falling in on you", the preparation of teatime to its finishing shows a chance to slow down and appreciate our surroundings.
TED-ED, The history of tea - Shunan Teng
Legend has it that tea was first discovered over 4000 years ago in China by Emperor Nun Shen. On one of his visits to a remote region, the leaves of a nearby tree blew into a pot of boiling water which his servants had placed over a fire. The refreshing aroma invited the Emperor to taste the beverage, and the first cup of tea was born. In the 16th century, tea made its way across the globe to Europe by Dutch traders, where it became a widely traded commodity thanks to the establishment of the East India Company in England.
Other than its taste and benefits, tea’s contributions to the culture and socioeconomic development are just as relevant. Grown in over 35 countries, the cultivation of tea supports the livelihoods of over 13 million people. As a Nepali where the day always starts with tea and every guest is invited to talk about the occasion of tea, Tea is not just a beverage for us, it's the catalyst for social change. Today, tea is the second most consumed beverage in the world after water.
Started by trade unions in 2005, International Tea Day celebrates the health benefits, economic importance, and cultural heritage of tea ensuring a more sustainable production from fields to our cups with the objective to strengthen the regulations for tea growers’ associations. Bringing together civil society organizations and small tea growers and businesses, this holiday aims to regulate uneven competition, safety regulations, land occupation, social security, living wages, and women’s rights for all tea workers.
Seminars, public campaigns, and presentations are traditionally held. Other than recognizing tea as a big export crop for countries that produce it, tea culture is also celebrated by enthusiasts. The Day will promote and foster collective actions to implement activities in favour of the sustainable production and consumption of tea and raise awareness of its importance in fighting hunger and poverty. Happy Tea Day!!
