The Link Between Specialty Coffee and Sustainability
Specialty coffee is defined as high-quality coffee that scores 80 points or higher on a 100-point scale by the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA). It is created by meticulous care throughout the supply chain, from cultivation to roasting, resulting in superior flavour, traceability, and minimal defects.
Specialty coffee is inherently linked to sustainable sourcing because the high quality of the beans requires, and often funds, ethical farming practices and direct, transparent trade relationships.
Key Sustainable Sourcing Methods
Specialty coffee utilises several models to ensure sustainability:
- Direct Trade: A direct relationship between roasters and farmers often provides better income than traditional fair trade certifications.
- Certifications (Fairtrade, Rainforest Alliance, Organic): These ensure minimum standards for fair wages, environmental protection, and organic, chemical-free farming.
- Regenerative Agriculture: Focuses on restoring soil health and ecosystem biodiversity.
Benefits of Sustainable Specialty Coffee
- For Producers: Financial stability,
better living conditions, and the ability to reinvest in their communities. - For the Environment: Protection of natural habitats, reduced use of harmful chemicals, and increased biodiversity.
- For Consumers: A superior, unique, and
traceable cup of coffee that supports a better, more equitable industry.