We all know that climate change is one of the greatest threats to our future. It's therefore no surprise that the connection between coffee and climate change is a major challenge in our industry and is occupying the minds of the brightest. Rising temperatures, irregular rainfall, droughts, extreme weather, and so much more are endangering our coffee. But what measures are being taken to make coffee compatible with climate change and to protect cultivation and harvesting?
Why is coffee so severely affected by climate change?
Coffee plants are very sensitive – whether Arabica or Robusta. They need relatively mild temperatures, regular rainfall, specific altitudes, and nutrient-rich soil to thrive and produce a good yield.
1. Climate demands
Coffee and climate change are closely linked. Arabica coffee plants, in particular, require mild temperatures between 18 and 24 degrees Celsius. Global warming is leading to rising temperatures, which disrupts the plant's growth. The plant becomes stunted, produces no more coffee, and is more susceptible to pests and diseases.
2. Changes in the rainy and dry seasons
Climate change is leading to extreme weather phenomena. This means that prolonged droughts occur, which weaken the plants, followed by extreme rainfall, which saturates the soil and makes the plants susceptible to mold and fungal infections.
3. Altitudes
Due to rising temperatures, coffee farmers are naturally trying to cultivate their plants in higher regions with lower temperatures. This is only possible to a limited extent – there aren't enough high-altitude areas to compensate for the change. Global coffee production will therefore decline, leading to unemployment and poverty in the producing countries and rising prices for us.
4. Susceptibility to diseases and pests
Fungi and mold thrive in rising temperatures, increasingly attacking coffee plants. Coffee and climate change are therefore closely linked. Pests like the coffee borer also multiply rapidly in the higher temperatures, increasingly threatening coffee farmers.
5. Accelerated maturation
Higher temperatures lead to faster ripening of the coffee cherries. However, this means the aromas don't have enough time to develop into a complex and balanced flavor profile. Arabica coffee plants, in particular, suffer from this, as they are known for their diverse aromas.
6. Soil quality
The alternating droughts and heavy rainfall lead to a decline in soil quality. Nutrients are washed away by the hay, the soil erodes, thus restricting plant growth and, in the worst case, causing it to die.
Climate-friendly coffee cultivation - is that possible?
To avoid further burdening coffee and climate change, consistent solutions are needed. But is that possible, and more importantly, how? Here are the most important solutions:
1. Shade systems through agroforestry
In agroforestry, shade management utilizes trees to actively shade coffee plants. This protects the sensitive plants from direct sunlight, resulting in lower temperatures. Simultaneously, the soil remains nutrient-rich and protected from erosion thanks to biodiversity and improved soil structure. This cultivation method also promotes the biodiversity of local ecosystems. Native birds and insects provide a natural way to prevent pests.
2. Water and resource management
Coffee requires water. In the growing regions around the equator, water scarcity is an increasing problem, so its use must be well-planned and implemented sparingly. Sustainable water and resource management also means that the resulting wastewater is recycled and treated.
3. Pest management without harmful pesticides
Chemical pesticides disrupt healthy soils, biodiversity, and ultimately harm farmers and consumers. Therefore, sustainable farming relies on natural pest control through specific insects and birds. Furthermore, highly resistant plants are deliberately cultivated, and the soil is regularly tested and monitored.
4. Soil quality management and sustainable cultivation
To grow good coffee, the soil must be healthy. Therefore, compost and natural fertilizers are primarily used. Here, too, mixed cropping on the farms plays an important role in ensuring good nutrient quality. Efforts are also made to minimize the use of machinery on the farms, as this can negatively impact soil health and, of course, to reduce CO2 emissions.
5. Climate-neutral production and CO2 regulation
The farms make extensive use of wind and solar energy to regulate CO2 emissions. This also reduces logistics costs, as there is no need to transport oil and similar materials to the farms. Furthermore, the farms are being reforested to offset CO2 emissions and preserve biodiversity.
6. Close cooperation between roasters and producers to increase social responsibility
To make coffee and climate change compatible, it's crucial to trade fairly from the outset. This means demanding fair wages in the producing countries, safe working conditions as a buyer, and supporting communities through training and further education. This must be consistently communicated to consumers. This also encourages farmers to adhere to quality and safety standards, as this leads to higher prices for green coffee. However, certifications are not always a guarantee of socially responsible and sustainable trade.
How can end consumers make coffee consumption and climate change more sustainable?
You too can consume coffee sustainably at home – as our customer, you've already made a really good decision! We'll explain why now:
1. Make conscious purchasing decisions
The first important decision is to buy from smaller coffee farms or cooperatives. This supports sustainable cultivation and improves the lives of local coffee farmers. Arabica coffee is also often grown in more sustainable agroforestry systems. These are more sustainable than monocultures, which unfortunately often still include Robusta coffee plants.
2. Prefer reusable and environmentally friendly packaging
Of course, our packaging is environmentally friendly and reusable! However, the best option is to buy loose coffee and store it at home in suitable coffee containers.
3. Enjoy fresh and local coffee
The best thing to do is buy coffee from your local roastery – like us! You get transparent information about where your coffee comes from, who the farmers and producers are, how your purchase supports them, and of course, simply high-quality coffee that also tastes really good because it was traditionally roasted.
4. Environmentally friendly preparation methods
Yes, even here you can consciously act sustainably! "Electricity-free" brewing methods like French press or pour-over coffee require less energy than any capsule machine – even though the water still needs to be heated in a kettle. They also produce less waste. For particularly old machines, it's worth looking for a new, energy-saving alternative. Many manufacturers now place great emphasis on ensuring their coffee machines operate efficiently and effectively.
5. Recycle and reuse coffee grounds
Coffee grounds don't necessarily have to go in the trash – they can be put to good use around the house! For example, they can be added to the compost heap and used as fertilizer. A little coffee grounds can also be added directly to plants as fertilizer, as they are rich in nutrients. Coffee grounds also make a great body scrub – they exfoliate and give the skin a little caffeine boost. And if your refrigerator starts to smell a bit unpleasant, they can be helpful as an odor eliminator.
6. Consume sustainably
The simplest way to consume sustainably is to first use a reusable cup and avoid disposable cups. Of course, consciously choosing sustainably grown coffee is even more important.
Coffee and climate change - influence on taste
Of course, coffee and climate change are also closely linked in terms of taste. Due to the altered ripening of the coffee cherry, the cherries ripen faster but also more irregularly because of the strong fluctuations in the climate of the growing regions. If the coffee is not picked by hand – and therefore only the ripe cherries are harvested – the appearance of the beans is very inconsistent and significantly inferior in taste and quality.
Pests, diseases, and nutrient deficiencies also affect the taste of coffee – all consequences of climate change. As farmers try to mitigate the rising temperatures by shifting cultivation areas to higher altitudes, the plants lose flavor diversity due to the changing conditions. This reduced complexity of aromas is, of course, a significant loss, especially for specialty coffee. Crop losses also play a major role for farmers. Some attempt to compensate for these losses through mass production – unfortunately, at the expense of flavor.
Conclusion: Coffee and climate change: A plant at its limit
Coffee and climate change are inextricably linked – we hope we've made that clear. The coffee plant, due to its specific needs, is highly dependent on weather, climate, and soil. This can only be preserved through collective effort. Sustainable farming practices, fair wages, and social engagement in the coffee-growing regions are the right way to keep our favorite beverage as delicious as it is. Together, through conscious consumption and action, we can achieve this. Thank you for being part of this movement!
Your SIMON&BEARNS Team
*These images are from our partner, the Coffee School Project, in El Salvador. Learn more about them here and why coffee cultivation in El Salvador is so important for preserving the rainforest.
Coffee and climate change: How global warming threatens the future of coffee
We all know that climate change is one of the greatest threats to our future. It's therefore no surprise that the connection between coffee and climate change is a major challenge in our industry and is occupying the minds of the brightest. Rising temperatures, irregular rainfall, droughts, extreme weather, and so much more are endangering our coffee. But what measures are being taken to make coffee compatible with climate change and to protect cultivation and harvesting?
Why is coffee so severely affected by climate change?
Coffee plants are very sensitive – whether Arabica or Robusta. They need relatively mild temperatures, regular rainfall, specific altitudes, and nutrient-rich soil to thrive and produce a good yield.
1. Climate demands
Coffee and climate change are closely linked. Arabica coffee plants, in particular, require mild temperatures between 18 and 24 degrees Celsius. Global warming is leading to rising temperatures, which disrupts the plant's growth. The plant becomes stunted, produces no more coffee, and is more susceptible to pests and diseases.
2. Changes in the rainy and dry seasons
Climate change is leading to extreme weather phenomena. This means that prolonged droughts occur, which weaken the plants, followed by extreme rainfall, which saturates the soil and makes the plants susceptible to mold and fungal infections.
3. Altitudes
Due to rising temperatures, coffee farmers are naturally trying to cultivate their plants in higher regions with lower temperatures. This is only possible to a limited extent – there aren't enough high-altitude areas to compensate for the change. Global coffee production will therefore decline, leading to unemployment and poverty in the producing countries and rising prices for us.
4. Susceptibility to diseases and pests
Fungi and mold thrive in rising temperatures, increasingly attacking coffee plants. Coffee and climate change are therefore closely linked. Pests like the coffee borer also multiply rapidly in the higher temperatures, increasingly threatening coffee farmers.
5. Accelerated maturation
Higher temperatures lead to faster ripening of the coffee cherries. However, this means the aromas don't have enough time to develop into a complex and balanced flavor profile. Arabica coffee plants, in particular, suffer from this, as they are known for their diverse aromas.
6. Soil quality
The alternating droughts and heavy rainfall lead to a decline in soil quality. Nutrients are washed away by the hay, the soil erodes, thus restricting plant growth and, in the worst case, causing it to die.
Climate-friendly coffee cultivation - is that possible?
To avoid further burdening coffee and climate change, consistent solutions are needed. But is that possible, and more importantly, how? Here are the most important solutions:
1. Shade systems through agroforestry
In agroforestry, shade management utilizes trees to actively shade coffee plants. This protects the sensitive plants from direct sunlight, resulting in lower temperatures. Simultaneously, the soil remains nutrient-rich and protected from erosion thanks to biodiversity and improved soil structure. This cultivation method also promotes the biodiversity of local ecosystems. Native birds and insects provide a natural way to prevent pests.
2. Water and resource management
Coffee requires water. In the growing regions around the equator, water scarcity is an increasing problem, so its use must be well-planned and implemented sparingly. Sustainable water and resource management also means that the resulting wastewater is recycled and treated.
3. Pest management without harmful pesticides
Chemical pesticides disrupt healthy soils, biodiversity, and ultimately harm farmers and consumers. Therefore, sustainable farming relies on natural pest control through specific insects and birds. Furthermore, highly resistant plants are deliberately cultivated, and the soil is regularly tested and monitored.
4. Soil quality management and sustainable cultivation
To grow good coffee, the soil must be healthy. Therefore, compost and natural fertilizers are primarily used. Here, too, mixed cropping on the farms plays an important role in ensuring good nutrient quality. Efforts are also made to minimize the use of machinery on the farms, as this can negatively impact soil health and, of course, to reduce CO2 emissions.
5. Climate-neutral production and CO2 regulation
The farms make extensive use of wind and solar energy to regulate CO2 emissions. This also reduces logistics costs, as there is no need to transport oil and similar materials to the farms. Furthermore, the farms are being reforested to offset CO2 emissions and preserve biodiversity.
6. Close cooperation between roasters and producers to increase social responsibility
To make coffee and climate change compatible, it's crucial to trade fairly from the outset. This means demanding fair wages in the producing countries, safe working conditions as a buyer, and supporting communities through training and further education. This must be consistently communicated to consumers. This also encourages farmers to adhere to quality and safety standards, as this leads to higher prices for green coffee. However, certifications are not always a guarantee of socially responsible and sustainable trade.
How can end consumers make coffee consumption and climate change more sustainable?
You too can consume coffee sustainably at home – as our customer, you've already made a really good decision! We'll explain why now:
1. Make conscious purchasing decisions
The first important decision is to buy from smaller coffee farms or cooperatives. This supports sustainable cultivation and improves the lives of local coffee farmers. Arabica coffee is also often grown in more sustainable agroforestry systems. These are more sustainable than monocultures, which unfortunately often still include Robusta coffee plants.
2. Prefer reusable and environmentally friendly packaging
Of course, our packaging is environmentally friendly and reusable! However, the best option is to buy loose coffee and store it at home in suitable coffee containers.
3. Enjoy fresh and local coffee
The best thing to do is buy coffee from your local roastery – like us! You get transparent information about where your coffee comes from, who the farmers and producers are, how your purchase supports them, and of course, simply high-quality coffee that also tastes really good because it was traditionally roasted.
4. Environmentally friendly preparation methods
Yes, even here you can consciously act sustainably! "Electricity-free" brewing methods like French press or pour-over coffee require less energy than any capsule machine – even though the water still needs to be heated in a kettle. They also produce less waste. For particularly old machines, it's worth looking for a new, energy-saving alternative. Many manufacturers now place great emphasis on ensuring their coffee machines operate efficiently and effectively.
5. Recycle and reuse coffee grounds
Coffee grounds don't necessarily have to go in the trash – they can be put to good use around the house! For example, they can be added to the compost heap and used as fertilizer. A little coffee grounds can also be added directly to plants as fertilizer, as they are rich in nutrients. Coffee grounds also make a great body scrub – they exfoliate and give the skin a little caffeine boost. And if your refrigerator starts to smell a bit unpleasant, they can be helpful as an odor eliminator.
6. Consume sustainably
The simplest way to consume sustainably is to first use a reusable cup and avoid disposable cups. Of course, consciously choosing sustainably grown coffee is even more important.
Coffee and climate change - influence on taste
Of course, coffee and climate change are also closely linked in terms of taste. Due to the altered ripening of the coffee cherry, the cherries ripen faster but also more irregularly because of the strong fluctuations in the climate of the growing regions. If the coffee is not picked by hand – and therefore only the ripe cherries are harvested – the appearance of the beans is very inconsistent and significantly inferior in taste and quality.
Pests, diseases, and nutrient deficiencies also affect the taste of coffee – all consequences of climate change. As farmers try to mitigate the rising temperatures by shifting cultivation areas to higher altitudes, the plants lose flavor diversity due to the changing conditions. This reduced complexity of aromas is, of course, a significant loss, especially for specialty coffee. Crop losses also play a major role for farmers. Some attempt to compensate for these losses through mass production – unfortunately, at the expense of flavor.
Conclusion: Coffee and climate change: A plant at its limit
Coffee and climate change are inextricably linked – we hope we've made that clear. The coffee plant, due to its specific needs, is highly dependent on weather, climate, and soil. This can only be preserved through collective effort. Sustainable farming practices, fair wages, and social engagement in the coffee-growing regions are the right way to keep our favorite beverage as delicious as it is. Together, through conscious consumption and action, we can achieve this. Thank you for being part of this movement!
Your SIMON&BEARNS Team
*These images are from our partner, the Coffee School Project, in El Salvador. Learn more about them here and why coffee cultivation in El Salvador is so important for preserving the rainforest.