Protecting endangered wildlife in Africa

Every great cup of tea tells a story – not just of flavour, but of place, care, and purpose. At Birchall, we believe tea is special because of where it comes from and the people who nurture it from crop to cup. Our black teas are sourced exclusively from East Africa, a region renowned for its rich volcanic soils, abundant sunshine, and some of the finest tea plantations in the world. But this breathtaking landscape is also home to extraordinary wildlife – and faces growing environmental threats including poaching, habitat loss, and human-wildlife conflict.

Caring for the environment and the communities where our teas are grown is at the heart of everything we do. That’s why, we want to make sure that when you choose Birchall, you’re not only enjoying a delicious cup of tea – you’re supporting sustainable farming and helping protect endangered species through Birchall Tea partnership with Tusk.

Read on to discover how your everyday cup of tea connects you to the origins of tea, the beautiful landscapes of East Africa, and the vital work being done to protect its wildlife. So, next time you boil the kettle, you’ll know the story behind every sip – and the difference it can make.

Where tea comes from

Many people associate tea with China, India and Ceylon (now Sri Lanka), and indeed, Birchall tea’s history dates back over 150 years ago to this part of the world where tea originated. Captain Birchall George Graham, who was posted to India as an officer, decided to invest his savings to make a living by planting tea in Darjeeling, India. Not only did he develop a successful tea trading business acquiring the knowledge and expertise to create the fines teas in the world, but he also became a founded member of the Darjeeling Tea Association.

Tusk charity partnership with Birchall protecting endangered wildlife in Africa

East African black tea

This rich heritage and commitment to quality have been passed down through generations, leading Birchall Tea to expand its operations to East Africa, which is one of the largest tea exporters in the world! Rich volcanic soils, abundant sunshine, and cooler temperatures due to the elevation, create the ideal conditions for producing exceptional teas. Today, Birchall Tea continues to honour its legacy by sourcing our blended and single origin black teas exclusively form the finest tea estates across East Africa, while supporting sustainable practices and giving back to the communities where our teas are grown.

Africa is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including some of the world’s most iconic and endangered species such as elephants, rhinos, and lions. The threats to these species are numerous, including habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict. Protecting endangered species in Africa is a critical mission that requires concerted efforts from various stakeholders. As a part of our continuous effort to protect nature and wildlife in Africa, we support organizations like Virunga National Park, African’s first national park, home to mountain gorillas and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which plays a vital role in addressing these challenges by implementing conservation programs, supporting anti-poaching initiatives, and promoting community engagement.

Birchall Tea partnership with Tusk

Furthermore, in line with our commitment to sustainability and conservation and a vision to represent ethical tea brands, Birchall Tea has partnered with Tusk, a leading charity in Africa focused on protecting endangered species. Through this partnership, we aim to support Tusk’s vital work in wildlife conservation and community development. They currently support over 50 conservation projects in 20 countries across the African continent increasing vital protection for over 50 million hectares of land and more than 40 different threatened species, including African elephant, rhino, lion, and mountain gorillas, amongst many others.

“Despite facing some of the greatest challenges to international conservation in history, Tusk continues to be a shining light in what are tragically dark times for Africa’s wildlife.”

HRH The Prince of Wales KG, KT, Royal Patron

We are proud to say that we donate directly to Tusk 5p from every Birchall Great Rift Everyday 80s, Birchall Great Rift Decaf 80s, and Birchall Serengeti, a unique blend crafted using rare Tanzanian teas to celebrate this diverse ecosystem and further support Tusk’s wildlife conservation efforts. Inspired by the vibrant wildlife in the Serengeti, our new tea has a bold refreshing taste to make any morning come alive.

“Delicious, light and refreshing yet full of flavour.”

Serengeti Customer Review on Feefo

Help protect Africa’s wildlife – one cup at a time

To celebrate our partnership with Tusk, we’re offering 20% off our Tusk packs throughout the month of July – including Serengeti Tanzanian Tea, Great Rift Breakfast Tea, Great Rift Decaf and our new Birchall Africa Tea Caddy. With every purchase, not only do you enjoy award-winning tea, but you also help raise even more vital funds to support Tusk’s incredible conservation work across Africa.