VAHDAM® India, a global wellness and one of the country’s largest home-grown Indian teas brand, bringing India’s finest teas and spices to the world, has released its annual Impact Report. The report showcases the progress and actions taken in the realms of environmental and social initiatives, highlighting VAHDAM® India’s commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals..
Highlights for FY 23-24 includes VAHDAM® India being recognised as a B Corp certified brand. This globally trusted certification which is awarded to select global brands is led by B Lab, a non-profit, that recognizes businesses that meet high standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. Certified B Corporations are leaders in the global movement for an inclusive, equitable, and regenerative economy.
Speaking on the World Environment Day, Bala Sarda, Founder & CEO, VAHDAM® India commented, “We embrace the ethos of ‘DO GOOD BY DOING GOOD,’ aiming to make a sustainable impact on both people and the planet. As a purpose-led brand, we strive to make a long-term impact. This is achieved through eco-friendly practices and socially impactful initiatives that are deeply embedded in the core values of our brands. We are proud to be the only tea brand in the country to achieve B Corp certification. This is a testament to our vision and efforts. We are determined to continue such efforts.”
VAHDAM® India has been a Certified Plastic Neutral and Climate Neutral brand for 4 years and our Plastic and Carbon footprint has been net zero since 2019. This year, the brand offset its carbon footprint with carbon credits from a wind power project in Tamil Nadu. For the financial year, the carbon footprint was reduced by an impressive 15.39%, and the brand reduced its plastic footprint by 24.68% compared to last year, reflecting continuous efforts in this critical environmental area.
VAHDAM® India continues to be an integral part of the India Plastics Pact, engaging with multiple stakeholders to address the challenges of implementing circularity in plastics packaging. The company is actively working on developing packaging materials and designs that use less plastic, a higher proportion of recyclable plastic, and environmentally friendly and sustainable materials. All its pyramid tea bags are now made with 100% Non-GMO cornstarch called PLA (Poly Lactic Acid), which industrially decomposts within four days and home-composts within 22-44 months.
In addition to its environmental initiatives, VAHDAM® India has committed a minimum of 1% of company’s revenue directed towards the education of its farmers’ children under its flagship CSR Initiatives, TEACH ME™. Launched in 2018, so far, the initiative has impacted 13,500+ children, reached 70+ locations, and opened 40+ Digital Learning Centres (DLC) across the country. The company aims to add 100 more DLCs and 32,000 children in the Program in the coming year.