Role Of Colombian Coffee In Sustainable Farming Practices

The word sustainability appears almost everywhere, but when it comes to taking a move towards sustainability, few industries can grasp the concept and work towards it. The coffee industry in Columbia not only hopes to boost the prospect of exports but also incorporate inclusive and sustainable production practices in its value chain. Colombian Coffee: Mecatos Bakery & Café Waterford Lakes

Moreover, coffee farming is a critical economic driver in the country. The industry experts have pledged to make coffee production sustainable in a couple of years, and the first course of action they have taken is to understand sustainability in all the coffee supply chains. Colombian

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A Brief Guide About The History Of Columbian Coffee 

The introduction of coffee in the nation took place in the early 17th century, and Jesuit priests were the first to do so. The primary crops got harvested in the country’s northeastern portion. However, coffee was immediately adopted all across Columbia by family farms that were little in size. Initially, the commercial export of coffee beans in the country didn’t commence before the 18th century. 

In order to make the industry a major one, there took place the first shipment of these coffee beans. Due to the “Thousand Day War,” the developing industry experienced a brief decline. As a result, the international coffee prices were quiet, and plantation owners split up their farmland among the local workers. 

By the 19th century, a peaceful Colombia had already developed a logistic system, thereby helping small-state farmers export coffee efficiently. This quickly started a new-age coffee growth and gave farmers a light to carry on Colombian coffee production. 

• What goes into Columbian coffee production? 

Columbian coffee beans, or as they are also known, Arabica coffee, must be grown at a certain altitude. Also, it must be grown in a place lying in the middle of two tropics having volcanic soil and two wet seasons. 

Since Colombia, as a region, excels in all these requirements, it is an ideal place to grow coffee. It provides ideal geographical conditions along with the weather, thereby making coffee production easier. 

Coffee Beans Growing In The Land

The nation has a reputation for being the happiest country in the world. But what makes it a happy country? Unfortunately, there is a major exportation of coffee beans which sends the very best quality outside the country. Coffee culture in Columbia plays a major role in their national happiness. 

Unlike certain European nations, where the coffee culture is just a grab-and-go behavior, Columbia prioritizes consuming authentic coffee. This sets the country apart from other coffee exporters. In the country’s coffee culture, this hot beverage takes up a much social role, the foundation being the Columbian social society. 

It is no big deal for Columbians to meet up with family and friends with just a cup of coffee, especially in rural areas. The work environments are no exception either; coffee has a greater role to play. It helps to keep mental health nourished, which is why it is offered in meetings. 

• The Columbian coffee culture

To enjoy and savor is the essence of Columbian coffee, not to be used as something that will get you through a strenuous day. In Colombia, people consume coffee in smaller cups, often made of plastic. Sweetened black coffee is popular as Tinto. 

This particular method of consuming coffee shows a reduced number of Colombians suffering from the ill effects of drinking too much coffee. Basically, coffee is more like a culture in the country, not just your regular beverage. 

Why Is Sustainability Important For Coffee Production?

Did you know that over 50 percent of municipalities across Columbia are engaged in coffee production, and around four million people are depending on the income it produces? Also, coffee producers work as smallholder farmers. This suggests that coffee is of vital significance in Columbia. And sustainability in the industry is critical for the land and the people involved in the production process. Otherwise, many of them would be compelled to give up their traditional farming.

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According to the Colombian Coffee Federation, around 42 percent of farms in Columbia are equipped with sustainable practices and certification. But they are aiming to increase the figure in the coming years. It’s also worth noting that a major percentage of coffee producers have opted for sustainable practices but have not received certification owing to a lack of funds or other resources.

Read Also: Agrigenomics: What It Entails And Why It Is Important In The Modern World (rslonline.com)

What Does Sustainability Mean For The Coffee Industry?

From a general perspective, sustainability refers to the practice of catering to the demands of the present without affecting the supply for the future. Even though the concept is very simple, when it comes to practice, hordes of complexities are bound to arise.

For coffee farming in Columbia, sustainability refers to the reuse of coffee husks as fuel rather than cutting down trees, filtering water using fermentation tanks, and using organic fertilizers for coffee plantations. It also extends to designing educational opportunities, medical care, reliable working conditions, and decent remuneration for the employees.

At present, FNC is working with the top coffee institutions and experts to design a Code of Conduct to be followed across Columbia. FNC will also conduct forums with production experts, farmers, educators, and exporters. As these sectors will be involved, a grand level of sustainability will aid Columbian coffee producers in preserving their coffee farms. This is particularly crucial with global warming and climate changes affecting coffee production in Columbia.

Final words

Becoming sustainable is a huge leap for coffee production in Columbia. What deserves special mention is that 2027 marks the 100th anniversary of the foundation of FNC. What could be a better time for coffee production in Columbia to aim for sustainability? Global coffee prices have witnessed a downward movement in the last few years, which is a challenge for many countries. Caught amidst the volatile situation between the production of coffee, sustainability, and pricing, the country is attempting to revolutionize planting techniques and serve premium coffee to the world.

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