Shade-Grown coffee represents a host of benefits to both local growers and those of us who enjoy coffee drinks; as well as helping preserve important environmental concerns.
In its
natural condition coffee has always traditionally been grown in the shade
of forests. In recent years, however, many farmers have been offered to
convert to sun-tolerant hybrid coffee plants in an effort to increase yield
and thus generate more profit for the buyers. Unfortunately this not only
takes advantage of the farmers and their communities (by removing important
nutrients from the soil, promoting erosion, and contaminating their water
supply) it also alters the environment by removing the trees which support
the vast plant and animal ecosystems of which they are dependent. Furthermore,
shade grown coffee plants ripen at a slower rate which allows them to produce
a more robust and mature bean which is full of natural flavors and rich
in sugar.
Shade Tree Coffee is fortunate to be in cooperation with local roaster Counter Culture Coffee, a company driven by a commitment of supporting farmers and communities, and helping them accomplish appropriate and sustainable methods of growing and harvesting.
