The Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center has developed strict scientific certification standards for coffee farming which is organic, shade grown, sustainable and environmentally friendly. The SMBC certification is the best assurance coffee drinkers can have that the coffee they are drinking is helping preserve habitat needed by migrant birds. Many of our most loved New England and New York birds depend on environments such as those provided by 'Rustic Canopy' coffee farming for sustaining their populations – perhaps even for their survival. The development of GM coffee that can be grown in full sun with heavy chemicals, the growth of 'factory' agriculture in the coffee lands and the destruction of rain forest make it increasingly difficult for many species to maintain viable population levels. Organic, shade grown coffee farms – family farms – are the best protection we can provide. However, the SMBC 'Bird Friendly'® certification has not yet become the consumer 'gold standard' for sustainable coffee. Birds&Beans™ coffee fills the void and promotes the certification.