United States-based roaster Community Coffee has partnered with non-profit World Coffee Research (WCR) to drive agricultural innovation in the coffee industry.
According to data from WCR, the global coffee industry could face a supply shortage of millions of bags as early as 2030, as demand for coffee steadily increases amid the challenges of climate change.
As one of the founding members of WCR, Coffee Community CEO Tom Corley says the company is “investing in the future of coffee for everyone”.
It is estimated that nearly three-quarters of the world’s coffee is produced in only five countries, leaving the supply chain vulnerable to climate change and other risks. WCR aims for a more diverse supply by breeding and distributing new coffee varieties relevant to different growing environments in origins across the world.
“There is a very real threat on coffee,” says Matt Saurage, Chairman of the Board for Community Coffee. “With World Coffee Research, we are investing in everything from coffee breeding to plant life to anticipate the needs of farmers.”
The first waves of new WCR coffee varieties will arrive at farms across the globe as early as 2036 as the organisation races to accelerate timelines in plant breeding. From there, WCR plans to deliver approved varieties to farmers every three years.
“Community Coffee has been a foundational leader in World Coffee Research’s work to advance agricultural research and development in coffee because they’re so committed to the families that produce it,” says Jennifer “Vern” Long, CEO of WCR.
“They recognise the value of investing in the future of coffee – not just across the US, but also as a bridge to the producers around the world who provide this amazing beverage for all of us to enjoy.”
For more information, visit communitycoffee.com/WorldCoffeeResearch.
