The Seal Initiative is a dynamic, activity-based framework that encourages formal businesses to embark on the Seal journey – a proactive, ongoing process through which business entities identify and address human rights issues within their business operations and supply chains and implement sustainable actions at their own pace.

• Poverty, the main driver of child labour, is common in tea plantations, especially among smallholders who produce 70% of Sri Lanka’s tea

• Workers lack access to dignified and decent working conditions, including appropriate housing and fair wages

• Youth are turning their backs on the tea sector due to a lack of decent work

• Gender inequality, sexual exploitation and abuse are common

• Outmigration of parents, especially mothers, due to poverty leaves children vulnerable

• Tea buyers have very limited or no transparency into the working and living conditions of plantation communities

• There is a lack of accountability and reporting on human rights/HRDD in plantations

• Formal tea estates, factories and tea plantations (from regional plantation companies (RPCs) to mid-sized estates)

• Local and international retailers, brands, exporters and brokers of Sri Lankan tea

• Strengthened business commitment and capacity to create a family-friendly tea supply chain where women, children and families can enjoy their full rights

• Creates a more inclusive, supportive workplace that helps attract and retain motivated, loyal employees

• Meets HRDD obligations while delivering tangible, lasting impact for tea communities

• Promotes public-private partnerships to improve essential services such as education, healthcare and social protection

• Earns trust and credibility among employees, local communities, and business partners through visible, values-driven action

• Members meeting the criteria receive a seal to display on products, highlighting their dedication to improving family life on tea plantations; seal holders also benefit from brand visibility through The Centre’s communications

The Seal Initiative was launched by The Centre for Child Rights and Business in June 2022 with tea industry stakeholders and initial support from Save the Children. Eight of Sri Lanka's biggest tea companies have joined the Seal Journey so far. 

Current Seal holders include:

Please email us to learn more.