Global Market Report: Coffee prices and sustainability
This report looks closely at sustainable production and consumption trends in the coffee sector, focusing on how voluntary sustainability standards (VSSs) can make a difference in producers’ livelihoods by, for example, raising farm gate prices or supporting climate resilience and soil and water conservation.
Since its discovery more than 1,000 years ago in Ethiopia, coffee has grown to become a staple for many people. About 125 million people earn their livelihoods in the coffee sector. Many millions more are warmed and energized by the popular brewed beverage.
Voluntary sustainability standards (VSSs) have become well established in the global coffee sector since they emerged over 30 years ago. Roasters, retailers, and consumers in many markets regularly use standards to distinguish between conventionally produced coffee and more sustainable alternatives.
This report looks closely at sustainable production and consumption trends in the coffee sector, focusing on how VSSs can make a difference in producers’ livelihoods by, for example, raising farm gate prices or supporting climate resilience and soil and water conservation. It includes a detailed analysis and recommendations for actors throughout the value chain on how to increase farmers’ prices and income while providing more value for their sustainably grown coffee.
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