Social Impact

Guayusa provides an alternate income stream for Kichwa farmers. Diversified incomes are more stable, as farmers with several income streams suffer less if one source falters. Because guayusa grows well interspersed with other crops, its cultivation does not preclude the growth and sale of other plants and it allows for more diversified and stable incomes. RUNA travels to farmers and pays them a third-party verified Fair Trade price for guayusa leaves on the spot. Additionally, RUNA pays 15% on top of each sale into a social premium fund for the communities to use as they see fit. We are proud that we do not operate on a charity or donation model, but instead focus on creating and strengthening a sustainable income stream. The more products RUNA sells, the more guayusa is purchased from indigenous farmers and the more money is channeled into these communities (money flow is not based on charitable donations from RUNA). As guayusa is shared with more and more people around the world, Kichwa cultural heritage spreads and money flows to the communities that cultivate this amazing plant. [/column_half_last]