Environmental Sustainability: Climate Change in Colombia from a Farm Perspective

In a notable event that took place last week, the Victoria Arduino Expertise Center, in partnership with the renowned Juan Valdez Colombian coffee chain, hosted “Harvesting Sustainability: A Colombian Coffee Experience.” Estefania Hernandez, the Regional Director at COLOMBIAN EXOTIC COFFEE GROWERS, was among the distinguished speakers. She delivered an insightful presentation titled “Environmental Sustainability: Climate Change in Colombia from a Farm Perspective,” which shed light on the significant impacts of climate change on Colombian coffee farms and suggested effective strategies to counter these challenges.

Understanding Climate Change

Climate change is defined as a long-term, slow change in the global climate system. Human activities, particularly the increased emission of greenhouse gases (GHGs) such as carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide, have accelerated this process. Since the 1850s, the average global temperature has risen by approximately 1°C and is projected to rise between 1.5°C to over 5°C by 2100, depending on future emission scenarios.

The greenhouse effect, wherein gases in the atmosphere trap heat from the sun, is a major driver of global warming. These gases allow sunlight to enter the atmosphere but prevent some of the heat from escaping, leading to a gradual increase in the Earth’s mean temperature. Over the past century, human activities, especially the burning of fossil fuels, have significantly increased the emission of these GHGs.

Effects of Climate Change

The effects of climate change are far-reaching and multifaceted:

• Unpredictable Weather Patterns: There is increased variability in rainfall, changes in the timing of wet seasons, and extended droughts.
• Extreme Weather Events: The frequency and intensity of storms, heavy rainfall, and high temperatures have increased.
• Environmental Degradation: Excessive rains lead to flooding, landslides, and soil erosion, while rising sea levels and ocean acidification further threaten ecosystems.
• Urban Challenges: Cities experience increased heat and pollutant buildup, alongside longer and more intense wildfire seasons.

Impact on Coffee Production

Climate change poses significant challenges to coffee production in Colombia. Since 1980, the average temperature in the Colombian coffee region has increased by 1.2°C, with projections indicating a rise of 0.3°C per decade. These changes disrupt traditional growing cycles, increase the incidence of pests and diseases, and threaten the overall productivity of coffee farms. Additionally, the global coffee sector faces an imbalance between supply and demand, with predictions suggesting a potential shortfall of 60 million bags in the future.

Mitigation Strategies

To combat these challenges, the coffee industry must adopt comprehensive mitigation strategies:

1. Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions: This includes minimizing fertilizer overuse, transitioning to renewable energy sources like biomass, and using naturally dried coffee methods instead of mechanical driers.
2. Conserving and Restoring Forests: Reducing deforestation and reforesting riparian zones can help maintain carbon sinks, crucial for trapping greenhouse gases.
3. Improving Agricultural Practices: Introducing shade trees, establishing windbreaks, and enhancing soil and water management can bolster the resilience of coffee farms.

Resilience Pathways for Coffee Farming

Hernandez emphasized three main pathways to enhance the resilience of coffee farming:

1. Relocation: Moving coffee cultivation to higher elevations where the climate remains suitable. However, this approach can lead to competition for land and affect the livelihoods of lower elevation farming communities.
2. Adaptation of Farming Practices: Utilizing irrigation, improved shade, and mulching practices to mitigate the effects of changing weather patterns.
3. Development of Resilient Coffee Varieties: Investing in breeding and developing new coffee crop species that can withstand harsher climates.

Additional Facts About Climate Change in Colombia:

1. Temperature Rise: Since the 1980s, the average temperature in Colombia’s coffee-growing regions has increased by 1.2°C. This temperature rise impacts the delicate balance required for coffee cultivation.
2. Rainfall Patterns: Colombia has experienced shifts in rainfall patterns, leading to unpredictable wet and dry seasons. This variability affects coffee flowering and fruit development, reducing crop yields.
3. Pest and Disease Proliferation: Higher temperatures and increased humidity create favorable conditions for pests like the coffee berry borer and diseases such as coffee leaf rust (Hemileia vastatrix), which have devastated coffee crops in recent years.
4. Economic Impact: Coffee farming is a critical source of income for over 500,000 families in Colombia. Climate change threatens their livelihoods, increasing the need for adaptive strategies to ensure economic stability.
5. Water Stress: Extended drought periods and irregular rainfall lead to water stress for coffee plants, affecting their growth and productivity. Effective water management practices are essential for maintaining healthy crops.
6. Soil Erosion and Degradation: Intense rainfall events contribute to soil erosion, reducing soil fertility and impacting coffee plant health. Sustainable farming practices, such as terracing and cover cropping, are necessary to combat soil degradation.

Future Strategies and Investments

To ensure a sustainable and resilient coffee industry, multiple strategies need to be implemented:

• Research: Further studies on the localized impacts of climate change on coffee are essential to inform effective adaptation strategies.
• Farm-Level Investments: Supporting farmers with the resources and knowledge to implement climate-resilient practices.
• Financial Mechanisms: Designing and implementing financial instruments to facilitate investment in adaptation measures.
• Breeding and Development: Investing in the creation of more resistant coffee varieties.
• Policy Support: Strengthening national development and environmental policies to support sustainable coffee farming.
• Farmer Organizations: Empowering farmer organizations to play a critical role in climate resilience efforts.

The “Harvesting Sustainability” event underscored the urgent need for the coffee industry to adapt to the realities of climate change. By implementing these strategies, the Colombian coffee sector can continue to thrive, ensuring the sustainability of one of the country’s most cherished and economically significant crops. The collaborative efforts of industry stakeholders, researchers, and policymakers are crucial to safeguarding the future of Colombian coffee amidst a changing climate.