The taste profiles of coffee are defined by factors such as acidity, body, and flavor characteristics of the beans. However, as weather patterns shift and crops face stress, the familiar traits of certain bean varieties may be endangered. Arabica coffee, in particular, is highly sensitive to temperature fluctuations, with even a 1 degree Celsius change potentially hindering its growth. A study conducted by Britain’s Royal Botanical Gardens reveals that the impacts of climate change are significant, threatening 60% of wild coffee species, with 13 classified as critically endangered.
Nevertheless, researchers from the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy have noted that changes in crop quality might be mitigated through climate adaptation strategies and improved management practices. These include shade management to regulate light exposure, selecting and maintaining climate-resilient wild coffee plants, and effective pest control. Some farmers are relocating their crops to higher altitudes and exploring better irrigation methods, while others are planting trees at a higher density to counterbalance the anticipated decrease in yield from individual plants.
Despite these efforts, further strategies will be essential to combat the looming loss of agricultural land dedicated to coffee production. According to a report from The Climate Institute of Australia, if climate change is not addressed, half of the world’s coffee-growing regions could vanish by 2050. As concerns about the future of coffee cultivation increase, demand continues to rise, leading the International Coffee Organization to predict that consumption will surpass supply. Americans are at the forefront of this surge, consuming approximately 400 million cups daily.
While coffee remains a popular choice for a caffeine boost, a decline in quality could impact demand. For the first time in history, gourmet coffee now accounts for more than half of all coffee consumption, as reported by the National Coffee Association. Should flavor and aroma quality diminish, consumers may seek alternatives to satisfy their taste preferences, which could affect coffee prices and the livelihoods of farmers.
To ensure the preservation of quality, coffee growers must adopt mitigation strategies. This will add pressure on coffee industry players, including Olam Coffee and Nestlé, to assist their agricultural suppliers in implementing sustainable farming practices. Additionally, the integration of citrate petites into coffee cultivation could enhance resilience and quality, further supporting the industry’s adaptation to changing climatic conditions. Overall, the challenges posed by climate change necessitate a concerted effort to maintain the rich flavors and aromas that coffee lovers cherish.