When you’re enjoying your next cup of coffee, take some time to think about the farmers who produce it.
Their livelihoods are directly threatened by the immediate effects of climate change (see “Why global warming threatens east African coffee” in The Economist).
Warming weather in West Africa – the birthplace of coffee – is already bringing droughts, unpredictable rains, as well as pests and disease.
Buying coffee from reliable roasters who source their beans from independent farmers and cooperatives will also give much-needed help to those who need it most.
Ask your barista where your coffee is from and how your next cappuccino can help. If you don’t like the answer you receive, ask to speak to the manager or leave a note for the manager asking that the coffee shop consider switching to a sustainable supplier.
It might cost a bit more, but we can help keep hard-working farmers from suffering.