By We are guided by principles of honesty, transparency, and integrity in all aspects of its work. Decisions related to programmes, partnerships, and collaborations are approached with care and responsibility. Maintaining ethical standards helps build trust among participants, partners, and communities involved in the initiative.
Respect for Cultural Heritage
Tea traditions carry deep cultural significance in many regions of the world. Order of Tea approaches these traditions with respect and sensitivity, recognising the knowledge and heritage preserved by communities and practitioners. Programmes aim to honour these traditions rather than appropriate or misrepresent them.
Fair and Respectful Partnerships
Collaborations with organisations, practitioners, and contributors are based on mutual respect and fair engagement. Partnerships are developed through open communication and shared understanding of goals, responsibilities, and expectations. The initiative values cooperation that benefits all parties involved.
Transparent Communication
Clear and transparent communication is an important part of ethical practice. Information regarding programmes, collaborations, and participation is shared as openly as possible so that participants and partners can make informed decisions. Transparency helps maintain clarity and trust in all interactions.
Responsible Representation
When presenting tea culture, craftsmanship, and related practices, Order of Tea strives to represent information responsibly and thoughtfully. Efforts are made to avoid exaggeration, misinterpretation, or misleading claims. Content and programmes are intended to encourage genuine appreciation and understanding.
Professional Conduct
Organisers, contributors, and collaborators are expected to conduct themselves in a professional and respectful manner. Professional behaviour includes maintaining appropriate standards of communication, respecting cultural contexts, and supporting positive working relationships during programmes and events.
Respect for People and Communities
The initiative recognises that tea culture exists within living communities and traditions. Ethical practice includes acknowledging the contributions of those who cultivate, craft, and share tea. We aim to engage with communities respectfully and to recognise the knowledge and experiences they contribute.
Ethical Collaboration
Order of Tea encourages the exchange of ideas and knowledge while respecting the intellectual contributions of individuals and organisations. When information or expertise is shared within programmes, efforts are made to recognise and credit contributors appropriately.
Commitment to Continuous Reflection
Ethical practice is an ongoing process that requires awareness and reflection. As the initiative evolves and engages with new partners and communities, Order of Tea remains committed to reviewing its practices and improving them where possible. This continuous reflection helps ensure that the initiative remains aligned with its values and responsibilities.