The Sustainable Coffee Company and Parks Victoria have unveiled “Coffee for Nature,” an innovative program dedicated to creating habitats for critically endangered wildlife in Victoria.
Through this partnership, proceeds from each kilogram of Coffee for Nature beans sold will be allocated directly to activities such as seed collection, propagation, site preparation, and the planting of trees, shrubs, and understory plants. These efforts aim to restore habitats for Victoria’s state faunal emblems: the helmeted honeyeater and the lowland Leadbeater’s possum, both critically endangered.
Planting efforts will be concentrated on reforestation projects managed by Parks Victoria, with the first site being Haining Farm, a former dairy farm now transformed into a conservation site in the Upper Yarra region.
“Our goal is to establish a sustainable income stream to support ongoing restoration projects like Haining Farm. This will significantly improve the survival prospects for some of Australia’s most endangered species,” said Brendan Condon, Director of The Sustainable Coffee Company.
The Haining Farm project is a multi-year endeavor focused on developing new, viable habitats. These areas will eventually facilitate the release of endangered species, boosting their chances of survival.
“Creating habitats for our Victorian faunal emblems is a top priority. We’re thrilled that Victorians can enjoy Coffee for Nature knowing they’re contributing to the recovery of the helmeted honeyeater and the Leadbeater’s possum,” said Conrad Annal, Area Chief Ranger of Parks Victoria.
The restoration work will be carried out by the award-winning ecological restoration firm Australian Ecosystems, in collaboration with Parks Victoria. Their expertise will ensure the use of locally indigenous plants and trees, optimizing habitat suitability.
An additional highlight of the program is the sourcing of Coffee for Nature green beans from the Bom Jesus partner farm in Brazil. This farm is renowned for its extensive programs aimed at protecting native birds and endangered wildlife. In 2023, it was ranked third among Brazil’s most sustainable large farms and the top sustainable producer in the coffee sector.
Through this initiative, the Coffee for Nature program promises not only to provide high-quality coffee but also to play a crucial role in environmental conservation efforts.