Soil quality – Prerequisite for development of regenerative agriculture in coffee production

The concept of regenerative agriculture in coffee production currently has no official explanation. However, according to the Rodale Institute in 1980, regenerative agriculture is used to describe the more comprehensive aspects of organic farming. In particular, farming methods used include: Restoring soil health; Protecting the local environment and wildlife; Promoting biodiversity; and saving water.

In addition, regenerative agriculture is also understood as a systematic way of farm management. In particular, Maria Silvia Tonti – Vice President of the RA and Carbon Competence Center at Yara said that the regenerative agriculture model will be based on the results to consider applying the best sustainable farming practices that have the highest impact. Positively impact nature through five themes: climate, soil health, resource use, biodiversity, and sustainable development.

Soil quality is an essential factor for plants to grow and develop. It is directly related to the success of regenerative agriculture in coffee production. Specifically, Victor Hugo Ramirez Builes – Science & Coffee Expert said, good soil quality can be defined as soil conditions that allow the root system to grow and develop healthily. This can be achieved if the soil is fertile, has low acidity, and has good water-holding and drainage capacity. If the soil has low fertility, pH (high acidity), and low water-holding capacity will limit the growth of coffee. Fertile soil quality also allows for easier mineralization of all nutrients added, such as green manure. Healthy soils also can sequester more carbon, improving the resilience of coffee farms to climate change.

Therefore, it can be said that soil quality is closely correlated with crop productivity, affecting usage and development practices in regenerative agriculture. Improving soil quality is one of the most effective ways to maintain crop productivity over the long term and increase plant adaptation to climate change.

One of the most effective ways to improve soil quality and health is to use high-quality fertilizers. However, fertilizer content and fertilization cycle should be well controlled. Because using too much fertilizer or using fertilizer at the wrong time can reduce quality or damage soil structure and pollute the farm’s water.

In addition, soil quality will be improved and regenerated naturally thanks to sustainable agricultural practices. For example, organic techniques or enhancing plant and animal diversity or factors related to the terroir of the growing area to create a sustainable ecosystem and nutrient circulation. From there, the soil can enhance natural biological activity, increase porosity, moisture retention, drainage as well as enhance nutrition. Specific ways such as using compost produced from farm waste (cattle manure, coffee grounds, straw,…). Maintain nurseries to maintain native tree populations and reforest the banks of local streams and streams interspersed with and around coffee growing areas. The manufacturer also provides workers with reasonable wages, learning opportunities and accommodation to improve their qualifications and understanding of their own mission for a sustainable coffee industry.

Good soil means soil with enough nutrients and healthy bacteria. Maintaining soil quality can increase both productivity and coffee quality. Theoretically, this means manufacturers can receive more money and invest more in their business. Roasters can provide higher quality coffee, ensuring demand for more sustainable specialty coffee is met. However, maintaining and enhancing soil health in a sustainable way is not easy. Farmers need to be supported with knowledge, skills, resources and finances to effectively implement regenerative agriculture methods.

As a sustainable coffee business, XLIII Coffee is one of the businesses that always cares and finds more sustainable ways to adapt and minimize the impact of the coffee industry on the environment. We always research and select producers who practice regenerative agriculture to promote the “green” development of the coffee production industry. We choose recyclable, biodegradable packaging when transporting green coffee beans and packaging them to consumers to limit waste. We choose the ultra-light roasting method to optimize energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions to the maximum level.

Furthermore, all information related to the product from the manufacturer, farming method, transportation, preliminary processing, etc. must be transparently disclosed to ensure the full flavor value and message from the supply chain’s sustainable response to customers. If you want to experience and contribute to sustainable development, visit and choose specialty coffee beans at XLIII Coffee!

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