Whole Foods Bananas About Sustainability
Whole Foods Market and nonprofit organization EARTH University are giving shoppers the opportunity to win one of five spots on a trip to EARTH University’s campus in Costa Rica, which provides ethically grown bananas for the Austin, Texas-based chain.
On the seven-day odyssey in and near Guacimo, Limon, winners will discover how EARTH University’s interactive teaching approach is grooming leaders in sustainable agriculture and responsible business and community development, as well as observe how EARTH’s bananas are grown and shipped to Whole Foods. The five visitors will also be able to go on a dolphin-watching cruise along the country’s Caribbean coastline and relax on the beaches of Puerto Viejo.
“EARTH University is producing so much more than delicious fruit; it’s shaping leaders who are making positive changes in the world and giving low-income students an opportunity to create a brighter future for themselves, their communities and the planet as a whole,” observed Michael Besancon, senior global VP of purchasing, distribution and communications for Whole Foods.
To enter the giveaway, which runs until Sept. 30, customers can visit wholefoodsmarket.com/earthutrip.
“At EARTH, our students spend a lot of time in the field applying the science and technology they learn in the classroom,” explained Daniel Sherrard, provost of San Jose, Costa Rica-based EARTH University. “This makes for a very engaging and exciting learning experience. Now, in addition to making a difference by purchasing EARTH University products, Whole Foods Market customers have a chance to become EARTH students for a week and learn about sustainable agriculture in the tropics in a fun and interactive way.”
As well as the organization’s fresh bananas, Whole Foods also carries frozen EARTH University bananas and pineapples. Sales of all EARTH University fruits help to fund the group's educational mission.
All of Whole Foods’ EARTH University items are part of the grocer’s “Whole Trade” program. To earn the Whole Trade Guarantee seal, growers must be certified that they ensure fair wages and safe working conditions while caring for the environment.