At AWC, we believe wholeheartedly in specialty coffee. Our mission is to bring the good stuff to more people than ever before, because specialty coffee is kinder to the planet and to people. Let us explain.
Picture a scene where farmers, custodians of the land, embrace new ethoses, and a commitment to harmonize their craft with nature. Many farmers operate under exactly these principles today and especially those operating outside of large-scale mainstream coffee production and in the world of specialty coffees instead.
Let's embark on a journey into the heart of sustainable farming methods in coffee production, exploring the numbers, the strategies, and the profound impact on the world we wake up to.
The Unseen Cost of Some Coffee
As we sip our daily brew, the hidden costs of conventional coffee production linger beneath the surface. Traditional farming practices often involve deforestation, excessive use of pesticides, as well as the depletion of natural resources. The environmental toll can be significant, and it's worth scrutinizing the methods that give rise to our beloved cup of coffee.
Coffee production can have various environmental impacts, and while not all coffee production is destructive, certain practices can contribute to environmental degradation. Here are some ways in which coffee production can negatively affect the environment.
Deforestation:
Clearing land for coffee plantations often involves cutting down forests, leading to habitat loss and a decline in biodiversity. The conversion of natural ecosystems into monoculture coffee farms can disrupt local ecosystems and contribute to the loss of plant and animal species.
Coffee is a shade-loving plant. Most mass-production farms clear land to grow coffees in exposed lots (without shade). Coffees here can suffer from diminished quality due to the plants' heightened stress from this continuous sun exposure. The land clearance not only contributes to global deforestation but also leads to further issues as the absence of canopy cover and biodiversity exposes coffee plants to pests, necessitating increased reliance on chemical pesticides.
Chemical Use:
Conventional coffee farming often relies on the use of pesticides, herbicides, and synthetic fertilizers. The excessive use of these chemicals can result in soil degradation, water pollution, and harm to non-target organisms, impacting both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems.
Water Consumption:
Coffee cultivation requires substantial amounts of water, and in regions where water resources are scarce, this can lead to depletion of aquifers and rivers. Excessive water extraction can negatively impact local ecosystems and contribute to water scarcity for surrounding communities. In fact, large-scale coffee production is a significant worldwide contributor to water insecurity.
The UN estimates it takes 140 litres of water to grow, process and transport enough coffee beans for one single cup! Unlike ‘big coffee’ which is grown in full sun, specialty coffee is often grown in the shade of other taller plants, which is not only a gentler environmental practice (losing less water to evaporation than sun-grown coffees) but is a great method for developing more complex flavor profiles.
Soil Erosion:
Intensive farming practices, particularly monoculture (planting only coffee over large areas), can lead to soil erosion. Erosion reduces soil fertility, damages the quality of water bodies, and negatively affects the overall health of the ecosystem.
Waste Generation:
Coffee processing generates significant amounts of waste, including pulp, husks, and wastewater. If not managed properly, this waste can contaminate water sources, harm aquatic life, and contribute to environmental pollution.
What Can Be Done to Make Coffee More Sustainable?
Efforts are being made to promote more sustainable and environmentally friendly practices in the coffee industry. Approaches such as shade-grown coffee, organic farming, and certifications like Rainforest Alliance and Fair Trade aim to address some of these environmental concerns and promote responsible coffee production. Choosing sustainably produced coffee and supporting initiatives that prioritize environmental and social responsibility can contribute to positive change within the industry - and the coffee is usually of a higher standard + more delicious too!
The Rise of Sustainable Farming
In response to the ecological challenges posed by conventional farming, change is taking place through the coffee industry. Sustainable farming methods, which prioritize environmental stewardship and social responsibility, are gaining traction. From agroforestry to organic farming, these methods seek to redefine the relationship between coffee cultivation and the natural world.
**Statistical Insight:**
Data from the International Coffee Organization reveals a steady increase in the adoption of sustainable practices, with certified sustainable coffee accounting for 24% of total production in 2023.
Agroforestry: A Symphony of Species
One of the pillars of sustainable coffee farming is agroforestry, a practice that integrates coffee cultivation with diverse tree species. This symbiotic relationship not only preserves biodiversity but also enhances soil fertility and water retention, creating a resilient and self-sustaining ecosystem.
Unlike traditional monoculture practices that often deplete soil nutrients and contribute to deforestation, agroforestry integrates a diverse array of tree species within agricultural landscapes. This intentional blending of trees with crops promotes ecological balance, enhances soil fertility, and mitigates the risk of erosion. The canopy provided by the trees acts as a natural shield, tempering the impact of harsh weather conditions on crops.
Organic Coffee Farming: A Chemical-Free Brew
Organic farming is another beacon of sustainability, promoting the use of natural fertilizers and pesticides while eschewing synthetic chemicals. This method not only safeguards the health of the soil and nearby water sources but also protects the well-being of farmers and consumers alike.
Fair Trade: Empowering Communities
Beyond environmental considerations, sustainable farming methods encompass social responsibility. Fair Trade certification ensures that farmers receive fair wages, fostering economic stability and empowering local communities. In fact, baseline prices rise by 19 percent and 29 percent for fairtrade certified coffees. It's a testament to the interconnectedness of sustainability, acknowledging that a truly sustainable cup of coffee extends beyond the environment to the people who cultivate it. Fairly compensating workers means that people have less incentive to harm the environment in order to deliver 'cheap' coffee to take care of themselves and their families.
Coffee Varieties for Better Sustainability
Liberica coffee is known for its relative resilience to certain pests and diseases compared to Arabica, which is susceptible to issues like coffee leaf rust. This can potentially reduce the need for chemical pesticides and fungicides, thereby benefiting the environment by decreasing chemical inputs.
Additionally, less common varieties show promise in a changing world.
Stenophylla coffee, scientifically known as Coffea stenophylla, is reported to be more tolerant of drought conditions compared to Arabica, which can be advantageous in regions with erratic rainfall patterns or limited access to irrigation. Eugenioides coffee, also known as Coffea eugenioides, may have much stronger heat-tolerance than standard varieties.
The Consumer's Role: Brewing Change, One Coffee Cup at a Time
The power to drive sustainability in coffee production lies not just in the hands of farmers and producers but also in those who savor the final product – the consumers. By making informed choices and supporting brands committed to sustainable practices, individuals can be catalysts for positive change. Where possible, buying specialty coffees usually means a shorter supply-chain, fairer prices and a kinder set of farming methods vs mainstream coffees.
Sustainability in Coffee. Final Thoughts:
As we conclude our exploration into sustainable farming methods in coffee production, the narrative transforms from a story of coffee's hidden costs to one of hope and resilience. Agroforestry, organic farming, and fair trade practices demonstrate that a greener cup of coffee is not a far-fetched dream but a tangible reality. By embracing these methods, we not only protect the environment but also nurture the communities and cultures intertwined with coffee cultivation. The journey towards sustainability in coffee production is ongoing, and with each sip, we contribute to the chapters of positive change.
