Calculating coffee’s environmental impact

A recent study conducted by CIRAD, commissioned by the Institute for Scientific Information on Coffee (ISIC), explores the complexities of standardizing the measurement of the environmental impact of green coffee. Traditionally, the assessment of the carbon footprint of green coffee has been inconsistent, largely due to variations in the methods used for life cycle assessments (LCAs) of agricultural products.

CIRAD undertook a comprehensive review of current methods for evaluating the environmental impact of green coffee, based on 34 studies representative of the various coffee-growing regions. The study found that coffee supply chains are highly diverse due to the variety of agricultural systems in tropical regions and differing trade routes. This diversity, coupled with specific farming practices, makes it difficult to model and standardize the carbon footprint accurately.

The findings revealed that many LCA studies focus on limited periods, often just one year, which can skew results if that year is marked by exceptional climatic conditions. Additionally, factors such as land use changes, nitrogen fertilizer application, coffee residue management, and wet processing significantly influence the carbon footprint of green coffee. These factors must be meticulously measured to obtain an accurate picture of the environmental impact.

ISIC, aware of the growing environmental concerns, supports this research to encourage more sustainable agricultural practices. The study also emphasizes the importance of accurate field data to improve the quality of LCAs, which are essential for promoting the long-term sustainability of coffee.

In conclusion, the CIRAD report calls for the standardization of measurement methods to better assess and mitigate the environmental impacts of green coffee, a crucial issue for the future of the coffee industry.