As the specialty coffee industry grows, we face new economic and ecological pressures. As we have now been hearing about for decades, some of the biggest challenges that we face in this industry – everyone, from farmers through to the end consumer – focus on the many growing ecological, financial, geographical, waste, and climate crises.

Few have missed the headlines declaring that ‘the world’s most popular coffee species are going extinct’ - a fact backed up by extensive scientific data and modeling. 60% of coffee species are threatened with extinction - a very high number considering we are at a global figure of 22% for all plants. Dr. Aaron P Davis, senior researcher at Kew Botanic Gardens in the UK, warns that the commercial production of arabica coffee, derived from a limited genetic pool, faces significant challenges in adapting to climate change and other threats like pests and diseases.

However, sustainability in the coffee industry transcends ecological concerns. It encompasses the livelihood of coffee producers, fair pricing, biodiversity preservation, and environmental conservation. Sustainable practices aim to reduce agrochemical usage, prevent deforestation, and enhance both the economic and ecological aspects of coffee cultivation. It extends to the operations of coffee shops and cafes, advocating for reduced waste, water conservation, eco-friendly construction materials, and biodegradable packaging.

The Long-Term Costs of Cheap Coffee

While inexpensive coffee may seem like a bargain, its true cost reveals itself over time. With the looming risk of species extinction and climate-related challenges, the quality and availability of coffee may diminish, leading to increased prices. Many coffee shops, roasters, baristas, and industry professionals are acutely aware of the fragility of their industry and choose to make sustainable choices and educate on the ecological impact of non-sustainable coffee production, ensuring their chosen industry has a future. Coffee consumers are now well educated on the importance of making sustainable choices; sustainability is no longer a marketing buzzword - it is a crucial fact to consider when building a coffee brand.

Navigating Certification Conundrums

Organic, fair-trade, Rainforest Alliance-certified—these terms populate the coffee market, presenting consumers with choices laden with ethical implications. While organic certification signifies environmentally friendly practices, its accessibility and affordability pose challenges for smallholder farmers. Similarly, fair trade aims to ensure better prices and conditions for farmers but may not always be the most viable option for all stakeholders. Direct trade, though lauded for its transparency, navigates a complex terrain of ethical sourcing without standardized regulations.

At this stage, there’s no perfect solution. The best you can do is be an educated consumer or retailer - research your options to try to find a choice that you feel good about.

Designing Sustainable Spaces

The ethos of sustainability extends beyond coffee production to the design of cafes and retail spaces. Architects and designers increasingly prioritize preserving original structures and utilizing reclaimed materials, and when virgin materials must be used, many look to source materials from manufacturers who follow sustainable protocols.

However, the responsibility ultimately lies with business owners to champion sustainable design practices, as every decision throughout the life of the business can contribute to the sustainability of the space. Selecting vintage or second-hand furniture is an excellent way for cafes to reduce their impact. If new furniture is preferred, there are many sustainable materials, from renewable materials like bamboo, recycled plastic, and even old coffee grounds and biodegradable resins.

Redefining Packaging and Tableware

Many cafes have long ditched plastic straws, opting for eco-friendly alternatives like paper or bamboo. But there's more to be done. Ceramic mugs, glass bottles, and certified wooden utensils offer sustainable alternatives. And for single-use items, innovative manufacturers now produce biodegradable packaging from materials like corn starch, algae, or sugar cane. Yet, bio-plastics, often hailed as a panacea, aren't always the solution. Many don't biodegrade or require specific conditions to do so, and some are mixed with traditional plastics. It's crucial to research purchases, ask lots of questions, and maintain recycling efforts.

In essence, sustainability is not merely a buzzword but a fundamental principle driving the future of the coffee industry. Whether choosing coffee beans, designing spaces, or selecting packaging, prioritizing sustainability is paramount for fostering a resilient and thriving industry into the future.

Blog post written by Lani Kingston, Coffee Fest Education Manager