The New York City-based Rainforest Alliance wants “a world where people and the environment prosper together.” It’s the group behind those three logos you see everywhere – the green frog seal representing Rainforest Alliance Certified and Verified marks, along with the checkmark-tree design for the Forest Stewardship Council. Founded in 1987, the organization states its mission as to “conserve biodiversity and ensure sustainable livelihoods by transforming land-use practices, business practices, and consumer behavior.” In plain English, this means that the Rainforest Alliance is applying environmental standards to corporations and organizations; in return, the companies earn better reputations and still continue to succeed economically. Some of the Alliance’s activities are as follows: keeping forests standing, curbing climate change, protecting wildlife, alleviating poverty, and transforming business practices. Food brands that have earned Rainforest Alliance Certified status include Clif Bar, Dole, Lipton, Naked Juice, and Newman’s Own.
