A World Without Coffee?
The coffee industry is in crisis and climate change is to blame.
Climate experts estimate that atmospheric temperatures will continue to rise,
increasing between 1.5 and 4-degrees C before the end of this century.
Although seemingly low the temperature change our planet has already
experienced is having a negative effect on coffee production.
Suitable Conditions
Coffee plants require specific conditions to flourish and produce flavorful beans. Coffee can only be grown in optimal regions that are of specific elevation with ideal soil, temperatures, and rainfall.
Suitable coffee growth regions are shrinking due to changes in climate and weather patterns.
Coffee plant varieties with desired taste and resiliency are now threatened and are at risk of disappearing. Wild coffee varieties that are typically more resilient to environmental threats and infestation are also at risk.
The time to act is now!
Reduction Of Growth Regions
Scientist estimate that about 50% of coffee plant habitats could disappear without intervention and plant adaptation. In some parts of the world this number could be as much as 80%.
The Direct Effect On Producers
Most coffee throughout the world is grown by small producers and independent farmers. Small growers lack the resources to bread new resilient varieties or change farming practices to adapt to the changing climate.
How Is Climate Change Affecting Coffee Production?
Coffee plants are sensitive to temperature. Rising temperatures are resulting in poor plant flowering and cherry development.
As temperatures rise, coffee production is shifting to more suitable higher altitudes where possible. In some countries, this option is not available leading to a reduction in land suitable to coffee production.
Rising temperatures and climate change are also contributing to rainfall pattern changes, resulting in plant stress and lower crop yields.
As habitats are affected and plants become stressed, industry is encountering increased occurrences of infestation from insects, blight, and fungus.
Driving Forces of Rising Temperatures:
Atmospheric Carbon & Methane
Methane emissions are the second largest cause of global temperature rise. Methane tends to stay out of the limelight and carbon dioxide takes center stage. Reducing methane emissions is critical for helping our industry avoid the worst impacts of climate change.
According to the EPA, methane has a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of over 25 times that of Carbon Dioxide. Reducing atmospheric methane now can have near-term reduction in global heating by reducing the energy absorbed and retained in Earth’s atmosphere.
The Human Factor
Greenhouse gas emissions, including methane, come from a variety of sources. We have the ability to positively influence methane emissions through the products we buy and the industries we support. Change is needed; continuing on our path may lead to complex mitigation and abatement solutions.
We're making a positive climate impact!
Roasting Technology
We developed a new efficient, clean-burning roasting technology that uses biomass fuel. Our custom roaster enables us to reduce our carbon footprint (compared to conventional natural gas fueled roasters) and potential methane generating sources. It also has the added benefit of creating superior tasting coffee.
Sustainable Packaging
We use earth-friendly packaging for our coffee. Our bags are made using renewable plant-based components. In addition, our shipping boxes, labels, and tape are recyclable.
Carbon-Neutral Shipping
Rest assured that ordering from us will not increase your carbon footprint. Every auspicious coffee shipment is carbon neutral.
Eliminating Single-Use Plastic
We are eliminating single-use plastic waste one bag at a time with our proprietary wood bag clip. Designed and made in-house, these quality clips can be used time and time again for sealing your coffee or other bags.
Investing In Reforestation
With every purchase, we donate a portion of the proceeds toward reforestation in North America. Our investment is focused on reducing atmospheric carbon dioxide, promoting biodiversity in our forests, and replanting after devastating forest fires.
Supporting Organic Farming
We only roast organic coffee. Organic agriculture helps to mitigate global climate change through the use of agriculture management practices which promote biological carbon sequestration. Organic agriculture also reduces non-renewable energy use by decreasing agrochemical demand.
Learn more about our roasting technology, sustainability practices, and ambitions to become climate positive by 2025.
