Costa Rican coffee is already renowned worldwide for its exceptional quality. Now, the country is taking its coffee sector to new heights with a groundbreaking initiative aimed at guaranteeing zero deforestation throughout its entire production process. The initiative, called Coffee+ Zero Deforestation, is being spearheaded by the Costa Rican Coffee Institute (ICAFE) and the CRUSA Foundation. Its goal is to enhance the competitiveness of Costa Rican coffee, ensure compliance with European Union regulations, and strengthen the sustainability and resilience of the coffee industry.
The project is set to benefit over 2,678 coffee producers, 304 coffee mills, and 93 exporting companies. To achieve its aims, Coffee+ will promote the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices that align with international standards, particularly those outlined in the European Green Pact. It will also encourage regenerative practices among Costa Rican coffee farmers, creating a sustainable model for the future of the industry.
Gustavo Jiménez, Executive Director of ICAFE, commented, “Today, the Café Plus Project is born, a key initiative for the Costa Rican coffee sector. At a time of great challenges, this project represents the commitment of ICAFE and the CRUSA Foundation to the sustainable future of our coffee.”
The Costa Rican coffee sector, which includes over 27,000 farming families, 304 mills, and 105 exporters, is facing several challenges, including the effects of climate change, low productivity, and the urgent need to integrate new generations and increase the involvement of women in the production process.
Through the Coffee+ project, the sector will enhance its ability to meet international sustainability standards, benefiting both local coffee-growing families and European Union partners. The initiative also emphasizes gender and youth inclusion, ensuring equal participation and safeguarding over 40,000 trees.
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