Brazil’s coffee production is facing a slight decline due to climate change, with critical impacts from droughts and temperature extremes noted particularly in the Cerrado Mineiro region. Expocacer is taking steps to mitigate these challenges through smart irrigation, regenerative agriculture, and greenhouse gas initiatives, culminating in support programs such as the Educampo Project, enhancing producers’ resilience and sustainability.
Climate change presents significant challenges for the coffee industry in Brazil. In 2024, Brazil’s coffee production was projected at 54.79 million 60kg bags, reflecting a slight decrease of 0.5% due to adverse weather conditions. Extended droughts and extreme temperatures have impaired crops, resulting in serious repercussions for coffee-growing regions, particularly the Cerrado Mineiro area.
Farmers in the Cerrado Mineiro faced unprecedented weather challenges, including severe droughts and temperatures nearing 40°C, along with frost occurrences. Fernando Couto, agricultural engineer at Expocacer, noted that these climate events resulted in over 400mm of water deficit, severely affecting productivity and causing both direct and indirect damage to the coffee plants.
To address these challenges, Expocacer has implemented innovative and sustainable agriculture practices. Solutions include smart irrigation systems that utilize soil moisture sensors, increasing crop yield and water efficiency, alongside regenerative practices that enhance plant resilience through organic fertilizers and advanced soil management techniques.
Furthermore, initiatives for greenhouse gas mitigation, such as those in partnership with the Brazilian GHG Protocol under FGVces, have enabled Expocacer to become the first Brazilian coffee cooperative recognized for tracking carbon emissions. This not only aligns with emissions reduction goals but also fosters transparency in reporting results to both national and international stakeholders.
Expocacer supports coffee producers through technical assistance and training programs, notably the Educampo Project with Sebrae Minas. Couto remarked that the project offers expert guidance, enabling producers to develop tailored agricultural strategies and improve overall farm management.
Producers like Désio Rodrigo from Lidon Cachoeira Alta farm have experienced the benefits of the Educampo Project firsthand. “With sustainable soil management and more strategic planning, we’ve been able to tackle challenges like droughts and frosts…” Rodrigo emphasized the critical role of technical support in modernizing practices and optimizing production.
The consultants associated with Educampo provide comprehensive insights, covering financial management to field-specific agronomic advice. “This has allowed us to adopt cutting-edge technologies… today, we’re more confident in facing climate challenges,” Rodrigo concluded, reflecting a proactive approach to future uncertainties.
In conclusion, climate change poses critical challenges for Brazil’s coffee industry, particularly through adverse weather impacting crop yields. However, initiatives like those taken by Expocacer, including technological advancements and innovative agricultural practices, offer pathways to mitigate these effects. The successful implementation of programs like Educampo not only enhances sustainability but also prepares producers to effectively manage climate-related challenges going forward.
Original Source: www.teaandcoffee.net
