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World Environment Day: How the coffee sector is making a difference
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Thursday, 05 June, 2025, 08 : 00 AM [IST]
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Brazil
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On World Environment Day, celebrated on June 5th, Brazilian coffee farming stands out as a powerful example of how high production can coexist with environmental sustainability. As the world’s largest producer and exporter of coffee, Brazil is increasingly embracing practices that reduce its environmental impact. In fact, coffee cultivation accounts for just 0.1% of deforestation in the country, an encouraging sign that it is possible to produce without destroying, according to a study by the International Institute for Sustainability (IIS).
Sustainable practices are not new to Brazilian coffee farmers. For years, producers have prioritised the responsible use of natural resources, the preservation of native vegetation, and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. This commitment has only grown stronger with the rise of regenerative agriculture, a practice that not only protects but actively restores ecosystems.
Farlla Gomes, technical and sustainability manager at the Cerrado Coffee Growers Cooperative (Expocacer), said, “The use of native tree shade, intercropping with fruits and vegetables, green manure, and restoring degraded lands are essential if we want a healthy environment that allows us to grow coffee for generations to come. Regenerating the soil increases long-term productivity, reduces dependency on inputs, strengthens biodiversity, and boosts carbon capture, all crucial in the fight against climate change.”
Additional sustainable practices - Integrated pest and disease management techniques that reduce the need for pesticides; Use of organic fertilisers that enhance soil fertility without harming the environment; Implementation of agroforestry systems that combine coffee production with biodiversity conservation; Promotion of fair labour practices and equitable compensation for farm workers.
Initiatives - The Cerrado Coffee Growers Cooperative (Expocacer), has implemented innovative projects and has a dedicated technical department that supports and audits sustainable efforts among its members. Already, more than 15,000 hectares of coffee farms have received regenerative certification.
Expocacer's expert team helps farmers to meet rigorous standards set by major certifications, including the Regenerative Agriculture certification from Regenagri, audited by Control Union in UK.
The cooperative also developed its own sustainability protocol, known as ECO, which follows ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles. Recognised by the Global Coffee Platform (GCP), the ECO protocol ensures that coffee produced under its guidelines meets top international sustainability standards and demonstrates a commitment to continuous improvement.
“Our goal is to promote and foster a forward-thinking coffee culture rooted in environmental and social impact,” said Gomes.
Another standout initiative is the Cerrado Water Consortium (CCA)—a joint project between Expocacer and public and private partners that has positively impacted more than 150,000 people. The program has implemented land-use strategies over 1,143 hectares, focusing on soil health and water resource management. Results are impressive: an 86.63% carbon management score, significant land restoration, and enhanced local biodiversity.
According to the coffee grower Fernando Beloni, these initiatives validate what many farmers in the region have already been doing. He said, “Carbon verification, for instance, affirms the sustainable farming practices we’ve followed for years. It sets an example for the world—not only environmentally, but socially and economically. These certifications allow us to show that we’re playing a key role in building a more sustainable future and mitigating climate change.”
Expocacer was the first coffee cooperative to receive the Gold Seal for Carbon Inventory from the Brazilian GHG Protocol Program. It also holds the Carbon on Track seal from Imaflora, confirming its low-carbon production. Inspections found annual emissions of just 0.85 tons of CO2 equivalent per hectare—a remarkably low number for the industry.
Environmental responsibility in coffee doesn’t stop at the farm. Consumers play a vital role by choosing certified sustainable coffees, supporting ethical practices, and valuing producers who prioritise environmental stewardship.
By sharing, discussing, and supporting sustainable initiatives, consumers help shape public policy and market trends. Their engagement pushes the coffee industry to become more transparent about its sourcing and the environmental and social practices behind each cup.
Simão Pedro de Lima, CEO of Expocacer, said, “Brazilian coffee farming proves that production and preservation can go hand in hand. With initiatives like those led by Expocacer, the industry is taking bold steps toward a future where every cup of coffee carries the freshness of a standing forest.”
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