Sustainability

From sourcing leaves to sharing them with the world, our responsibility extends to the planet, communities and culture. Every decision is guided by a vision of tea that endures for generations.

Sustainability Recognition

We achieved a 59/100 EcoVadis sustainability rating and received the “Committed” medal as part of the first stage of our sustainability journey, focused on our UK headquarters and preservation and packing centre in Kolkata, India.

2026 report

Reducing our footprint

Our Preservation and Packing Centre in Kolkata is carbon neutral, with rooftop solar panels providing 50% of its energy needs. Continued investment in renewable technologies and energy efficiency helps us minimise our footprint across production.

Respect for Communities

Partnerships with Rainforest Alliance, Fairtrade and the Ethical Tea Partnership ensure fair pay, safer conditions and responsible farming. Beyond sourcing, profits channelled through the N. Sethia Foundation support global initiatives in education, healthcare and cultural preservation.

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Our Sustainability Certifications

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Packaging with Purpose

Every detail of our packaging is designed with care for the environment. Tea bags and Silken Pyramids are 100% plastic-free and home-compostable, made from natural fibres like wood pulp, abaca and corn starch.

  • Health and safety

    Health and safety come first, with regular pesticide testing conducted by Eurofins and annual fluoride research ensuring every tea meets the highest standards of purity, safety, and exceptional quality.

  • Preserving tea culture

    Sustainability also means protecting heritage. The Chitra Collection, the world’s largest private collection of historic teawares, safeguards centuries of artistry and tradition, preserving tea’s cultural legacy.

  • Looking ahead

    Sustainability is a journey, not a destination. We constantly explore new solutions and build partnerships that align with our mission to elevate tea while caring for people and the planet.

Sustainability FAQs

Are Newby tea bags free of plastic?

Newby tea bags are made of biodegradable materials, free from plastic. We use compostable wood pulp, abaca, or corn starch, derived from plants, ensuring an eco-friendly and safe option for tea drinkers.

How do you make tea sustainable?

Choose organic or pesticide-tested teas, and certified brands from the Ethical Tea Partnership for sustainable sourcing. Use loose leaves or pick biodegradable or home-compostable tea bags. Minimise energy use in brewing, compost tea waste, and support brands investing in reducing their carbon emissions such as Newby London.

Is tea eco-friendly?

Conventional methods harm the environment through pesticide use and deforestation. Therefore, sustainable cultivation and packaging are crucial. At Newby London, we rigorously test our teas for 600 pesticides with Eurofins Lab, and actively invest in reducing carbon emissions and researching eco-friendly packaging solutions.

Is tea waste biodegradable?

Yes, tea waste is biodegradable. Both tea leaves and biodegradable tea bags can be composted, adding valuable nutrients to the soil. Avoiding plastic-containing tea bags is crucial for full biodegradability.

Which tea bags are eco friendly?

Eco-friendly tea bags are usually crafted from biodegradable materials such as PLA, paper, or natural fibers. Newby London provides plastic-free, compostable tea bags made from wood pulp, abaca, or corn starch, ensuring minimal environmental impact.