CALGARY, ALBERTA, ANNOUNCEMENT--(Marketwire - Oct. 27, 2009) - The United Nations Association in Canada (UNA-Canada) - Calgary Branch celebrated United Nations Day on Thursday, October 22, 2009, by recognizing the efforts of Good Earth Cafés Ltd. for local commitment to corporate social responsibility.
Michael Gretton, President of the UNA-Canada, Calgary Branch, complimented the hard work and involvement of Calgary businesses in the UNGC and local corporate social responsibility initiatives. He said, "Calgary companies and organizations are showing they are leaders locally and globally in promoting the important social and environmental principles put forth by the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC) and for contributing solutions to our world's many challenges - from climate change and economic exploitation to poverty and human rights."
The local award was accepted by Michael Going, Founder and President of Good Earth Cafes Ltd. "We have always viewed our business in the context of communities: a group of people, a neighborhood, a city, a country, and a planet. And we are mindful of the opportunity we have to create positive change in these communities by how we operate our business" Going said. In accepting the award, Going cited many initiatives Good Earth has undertaken to create positive change, including their most recent work to conduct Direct and Ethical trade with coffee farmers, resulting in positive environmental and social change in coffee growing countries.
For the third year, the UNA-Canada, Calgary Chapter celebrated UN Day by focusing attention on the United Nations Global Compact. The UNGC is a voluntary initiative aimed at fostering sustainable and responsible business practices across the globe. It encourages companies to embrace, support and enact, within their sphere of influence, a set of core values in the areas of human rights, labour standards, the environment, and anti-corruption.
About the UNA-Canada, Calgary Branch
The UNA- Canada, Calgary Branch is incorporated pursuant to the Alberta Societies Act, and its national head office is based in Ottawa. The branch's mandate is to engage the Calgary public in the work of the UN and the critical global issues which affect us all.
About Good Earth Coffeehouse and Bakery:
With a reputation for excellence, Good Earth has long been known for their premium coffee, espresso-based beverages as well as wholesome baked goods and food products. Good Earth has focused on creating a unique experience for customers through the combination of a distinctive coffeehouse environment, a passion for good food and social and environmental responsibility. The company continues to expand the café chain through franchising while maintaining its unique position and brand in the coffeehouse industry.
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