Lecture Description
This panel explores new strategies to improve the carbon and biodiversity outcomes of sustainability initiatives in the coffee industry. Building on a new global meta-analysis that defines the carbon sequestration potential of coffee agriculture, the discussion will examine how carbon payment programs—which may promote carbon insetting, tree-planting, and agroforestry—miss critical opportunities to enhance biodiversity and long-term resilience.
Panelists will address the coffee industry's contributions to global carbon budgets, the limitations of a carbon-first approach when addressing broader environmental challenges, and practical ways to redesign these sustainability programs for greater ecological impact, including for biodiversity. With perspectives from researchers, conservation organizations, private companies, and coffee producers with diverse experiences implementing these programs, attendees will gain actionable strategies to implement or improve sustainability initiatives that not only meet carbon goals but also support thriving ecosystems. Additionally, attendees will leave with practical knowledge to strengthen coffee’s role in combating climate change while ensuring a resilient future for coffee production.
Date: Friday April 25, 2025
Time: 11:30am - 12:30pm
Location: Room 360ABC
Category: Sustainability
Access: This lecture is free to attend with a Specialty Coffee Expo entry badge. Register to attend Specialty Coffee Expo here.
Please note that lecture sessions are open on a first-come, first-served basis. Early arrival is highly recommended to secure your seat.
Speakers
Dr. Emily Pappo
Climate Change Fellow, Smithsonian Institution.
Dr. Pappo is a former coffee buyer who is now an ecologist studying climate change resilience in coffee farms and landscapes. She will frame the discussion with a recently completed meta-analysis evaluating tradeoffs between carbon and biodiversity conservation in agroforestry.
Dr. Ruth Bennett
Research Ecologist, Smithsonian Institution & Director, Smithsonian Bird Friendly.
Dr. Bennett will present on strategies and tools developed by the Smithsonian to support conservation objectives through coffee agroforestry. She will share the design and implementation of Shade Tree Catalogues created for coffee-growing regions across Latin America and Asia and how these catalogues can inform agroforestry projects that sequester carbon, provide high-quality habitat, and support producers.
Esperanza Dionisio
President, Cooperativa Agraria Cafetelera Pangoa, Peru.
As the leader of a cooperative that has extensive experience with implementing carbon payment programs, Esperanza will share on-the-ground perspectives and lessons learned.