HRNS
Nature
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Brazil
Tanzania
Navigating the Transition from Monoculture in the Coffee Sector: Challenges and Strategies in Adopting Agroforestry and Syntropic Practices
by Katharina van Treeck | 20 Feb 2025
Climate change threatens global coffee production, particularly in monoculture systems that degrade soil and increase vulnerability to pests and extreme weather. Agroforestry and syntropic agriculture offer sustainable alternatives by integrating diverse plant species, improving soil health, and reducing dependency on chemical inputs. A pilot project in Minas Gerais, Brazil, led by Hanns R. Neumann Stiftung (HRNS), is converting 500 hectares of coffee monoculture into agroforestry, training farmers in climate-resilient practices. Despite challenges such as initial investment and labor demands, tailored support, profitable business models, and strategic planning can facilitate a successful transition. Sustainable coffee farming secures both farmer livelihoods and the future of high-quality coffee.