We are inviting you to our Online Symposium “It’s Bean Too Hot: The Reality of Coffee Farming in the Era of Climate Change” on February 21-22, 2024. This symposium will be a crucial dialogue bringing together diverse stakeholders – from coffee farmers and farmer organizations to scientists and coffee companies. Together, they will explore the pressing issue of climate change and its profound impacts on smallholder coffee farmers, who form the backbone of the global coffee industry.
UNDERSTANDING THE TRUE NEEDS OF COFFEE FARMING FAMILIES
While conversations about the coffee industry often revolve around securing supply chains and sustainability, this symposium aims to shift the spotlight onto the real needs of smallholder coffee farming families. These families contribute up to 80 % of the global coffee production, yet their real challenges, needs, and wishes often go unnoticed. The symposium will unravel the impacts of climate change on coffee production, landscapes, and the livelihoods of the communities over two insightful days.
DAY 1: ADDRESSING CLIMATE CHANGE REALITIES
The symposium kicks off with an eye-opening documentary, “It’s Bean Too Hot,” by filmmaker Hedvika Michnova. This film captures the struggles of coffee farmers in Costa Rica and Tanzania as they grapple with the effects of climate change on their livelihoods. The day proceeds with talks by experts like Janina Grabs, Christian Bunn, and Dr. Tina Beuchelt, each shedding light on the multifaceted challenges faced by smallholder coffee farmers.
Janina Grabs examines the resilience of coffee-growing communities, questioning the alignment of adaptive measures with the resilience of national and global coffee sectors. Christian Bunn delves into the various faces of climate change affecting coffee production globally. Dr. Tina Beuchelt addresses the critical issue of food security for smallholder coffee producers and the role of certifications and cooperatives.
BEST PRACTICE EXAMPLES AND SOLUTION APPROACHES
The day continues with talks from practitioners implementing sustainable practices. Dr. Joachim Milz explores the concept of Dynamic Agroforestry Systems in coffee cultivation, aiming to mitigate climate change impacts. Silvia Torres and Leônidas Melo highlight the importance of Circular Economy, utilizing organic waste from coffee cultivation for climate-smart practices in Minas Gerais, Brazil. Pablo Ruiz shares the success of “Climate Pioneers”, a concept empowering the next generation in Honduras to become local climate leaders.
DAY 2: NAVIGATING CHALLENGES AND IMPLEMENTING LEARNINGS
The second day dives into the challenges faced during the implementation of sustainable coffee production projects. Victor Komakech discusses the transformative role of Participatory Monitoring & Evaluation (PM&E). Eutropia Ngido emphasizes the importance of gender inclusivity in climate action and its direct impact on climate resilience in East Africa. Elizabeth Teague shares insights from Root Capital’s efforts to close the climate finance gap for smallholder coffee communities.
SHAPING A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE FOR COFFEE FARMING
It is clear that climate change poses a major threat to smallholder coffee farmers. However, their challenges also present opportunities for innovation, collaboration, and sustainable practices. The symposium not only sheds light on the bare facts but also highlights concrete solutions and best practices for coffee-farming families to secure their livelihoods.
JOIN THE DIALOGUE – REGISTER FOR THE SYMPOSIUM
This symposium is not just a platform for knowledge-sharing but a call to action. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn, exchange ideas, and immerse yourself in the expertise and experiences of professionals and practitioners from coffee-growing regions worldwide. Register for the Online Symposium “It’s Bean Too Hot: The Reality of Coffee Farming in the Era of Climate Change” and be a part of the collective effort to shape a sustainable future for coffee farming!