illycaffè: What is the Impact of Climate Change on Coffee?

Climate change affects the quality of coffee and the socio-economic conditions of producers, with negative effects on the production of high-quality coffee and an increase in financial and planning costs due to the increase in risks related to cultivation. 

Some articles also point to a possible problem related to aflatoxins (and a decrease in ochratoxins) in the next 50 years.

Published research shows that the number of extreme weather events increased in each growing region between 1980 and 2020, especially in the last decade.

illycaffè has long been committed to mitigating the effects of climate change throughout the entire supply chain, starting with coffee cultivation, for which it promotes the sustainable model of regenerative agriculture. This model allows for proper nourishment of the plants, naturally regenerating the soil, and thus reducing CO₂ emissions. 

Additionally, this type of cultivation allows for an improvement in the health of the ecosystem thanks to the increased biodiversity of the species used for ground cover and soil dynamics.

How can regenerative agriculture support the future of sustainable coffee?

In the Cerrado Mineiro region, illycaffè has collaborated with local producers for over thirty years. The Arabica Selection Brazil coffee uses regenerative practices certified by regenagri, an international standard providing certification for materials from farms certified according to its standards, covering the entire supply chain from initial processing to final product. Currently, illycaffè is the first coffee brand certified by regenagri.

Arabica Selection Cerrado Mineiro Brazil is the first 100% Arabica coffee from certified regenerative agriculture. 

Benefits observed include the improving soil fertility where organic fertilisers (compost) ensure proper nutrition for plants and increased biodiversity, which means that beneficial microorganisms combat harmful insects and fungi naturally. Cover plants reduce soil temperatures and act as hosts for insect antagonists and harmful fungi. 

What is the future of sustainable coffee at illycaffè?

The crisis we face requires us to develop a regenerative economy. We have 10 years to address and take concrete action in these three deeply interconnected areas, toward a Regenerative Company.