Coffee is an essential part of the daily routine for many people. Whether you’re an espresso enthusiast or a devoted drip coffee drinker, everyone can benefit from understanding how to drink coffee sustainably. This guide will provide you with the knowledge you need to make your next cup of coffee as sustainable as possible.
Why is it important to drink coffee sustainably?
Global revenue for coffee is said to have added up to £338,982 million in 2021, and considering the economics involved in the coffee industry, it is important to drink coffee sustainably. This means taking into account the entire life cycle of the coffee bean, from bean to cup. Sustainable coffee production is important to protect the environment, protect the livelihoods of farmers, and preserve the quality of coffee. The environment is greatly impacted by bean production, with deforestation and the use of harmful agrochemicals being part of the process. By drinking sustainable coffee, consumers can actively participate in protecting the environment, as sustainable producers use methods that cause less harm to the planet.
Drink fair-trade coffee
The first step to drinking coffee sustainably is to purchase fairtrade coffee. Fairtrade coffee is grown under certain standards that prioritise the sustainable production of the beans. These standards include providing farmers with better working conditions, a fair wage, and the opportunity to invest in their community. By purchasing fairtrade coffee, you are supporting the farmers who work hard to provide it. Additionally, this ensures that the beans are grown under safe and sustainable practices. It can be hard to know which brands are providing fairtrade coffee, but most grocery stores and coffee shops will have a variety of options.
Only heat the water you need for each drink
Another sustainable way to drink coffee is to only heat the water you need for each drink. This will not only save you energy, but it will also reduce your environmental impact. Instead of boiling a whole kettle of water for a single cup of coffee, you can use a smaller device such as an electric kettle or a stovetop espresso maker to heat only the amount of water you need. This will also help you save money on your energy bill. Additionally, you can also use a reusable mug or thermos to keep your coffee hot for longer. This way, you can only heat the water you need and have a hot cup of coffee all day.
Brew coffee at home
Brewing coffee at home is another great way to drink coffee sustainably. This not only saves you money, but it also helps you reduce the amount of waste you produce. Instead of using disposable filters and single-use coffee pods, you can purchase a reusable filter and use freshly ground coffee beans. This way, you are not only reducing your waste, but you are also investing in a higher quality cup of coffee. Additionally, brewing at home allows you to customise your drink to your liking with different brewing methods and beans to suit your preference.
Reuse coffee grounds
Reusing coffee grounds once you’re finished with them can be another great way to promote sustainability in your everyday life. Coffee grounds are an excellent source of nitrogen, which makes them perfect for composting. You can also use them in your garden to fertilise your plants and help them grow. Additionally, coffee grounds are great for exfoliating skin, deodorising carpets, and removing stains from fabrics. Reusing coffee grounds is a great way to make your coffee more sustainable, and it can help you save money and reduce waste at the same time.
Use biodegradable cups
When you need a coffee on the go, it can be hard to make sustainable choices. However, there are some steps you can take to make sure your coffee is still as sustainable as possible. One of the best things you can do is to go to coffee shops that provide biodegradable cups. These cups are made from plants, so they break down faster than traditional plastic or paper cups. Additionally, many coffee shops also offer reusable cups that you can bring with you every time you order. Using one of these cups will help you reduce the amount of waste you produce and make sure your coffee is as sustainable as possible.
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