The Bitter Truth About Commercial Coffee Production
Behind the multibillion-dollar coffee industry lies a significant environmental cost that involves massive deforestation, tainted water sources, chemical pollution, and carbon emissions.
Let’s explore the environmental impact of commercial coffee — and what we can do to preserve both our beloved brew and the planet that nurtures it.
How is Commercial Coffee Made?
Traditionally, coffee is grown beneath forest canopies in what's known as shade-grown production. This method mimics coffee's natural habitat as an understory plant and supports rich biodiversity.
To meet growing demand, however, many farms have shifted to sun-grown cultivation, where forests are cleared to make way for large monocultures. Without the shade and biodiversity of a natural ecosystem, these coffee plants rely heavily on fertilizers, pesticides, and irrigation to survive.
Coffee seedlings take 3-4 years to mature and bear fruit. Once the cherries are ripe, they’re harvested and processed using wet or dry methods. The green coffee beans are then sorted, graded, and packed for export. They travel thousands of miles to roasting facilities, where they're roasted to develop flavor. Finally, they're packaged and distributed to retailers and consumers worldwide.
This industrialized system — while efficient for meeting an ever-increasing global demand — creates cascading consequences that extend far beyond the cup.
What are the Consequences of Commercial Coffee Production?
Each stage of coffee’s journey from bean to cup leaves an environmental footprint: deforestation for plantations, chemical runoff from fertilizers, water pollution from processing, carbon emissions from transportation, and waste from packaging.
Deforestation and Habitat Loss
Coffee cultivation is one of the leading causes of deforestation in many tropical regions. A staggering 130,000 hectares of forest are lost yearly to coffee cultivation — a trend that's persisted for 20 years.
Deforestation causes massive habitat loss. The coffee belt— which includes countries like Brazil, Vietnam, and Colombia—overlaps significantly with biodiversity hotspots. These areas contain high numbers of plant and animal species found nowhere else on Earth. When these forests disappear to make way for coffee plantations, so do these unique species.
Soil Health and Erosion
Sun-grown coffee plantations, particularly those on hillsides, are highly susceptible to soil erosion. Without tree roots to hold soil in place, heavy tropical rains can wash away topsoil at alarming rates.
This erosion not only reduces long-term agricultural productivity but also harms downstream ecosystems by clogging waterways and disrupting marine life. Monoculture further depletes soil nutrients, increasing reliance on synthetic fertilizers.
Water Usage and Pollution
According to the World Economic Forum, a single cup of coffee requires approximately 140 liters of water to produce, with irrigation accounting for most of this substantial footprint. In water-stressed regions across the coffee belt like Brazil and Ethiopia, this intensive usage creates direct competition between agricultural needs and community access to clean water.
Communities downstream from coffee operations frequently face contaminated drinking water, collapsed fisheries, and waterborne illnesses. The resulting economic and health burdens disproportionately affect rural communities and developing countries that have the fewest resources to address these challenges.
Coffee’s Carbon Footprint
Coffee’s carbon footprint goes far beyond cultivation. While farming releases emissions, processing, transportation, and brewing add significantly to its climate impact.
Most coffee travels thousands of miles before reaching consumers, passing through farms, processors, exporters, importers, roasters, and retailers. A University College London study found that producing and exporting one kilogram (2.2 pounds) of Arabica coffee to the UK emits 15.33 kg (33.8 lbs) of CO₂. Factor in packaging, refrigeration, and brewing, and the footprint grows even larger.
Chemical Usage
Conventional coffee farming has become increasingly reliant on chemicals. Sun-grown coffee, lacking the natural pest control and nutrient cycling of shade-grown systems, often requires significant inputs of synthetic fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides.
These chemicals can contaminate local water sources, harm beneficial insects like pollinators, and potentially impact human health. Research has identified residues of numerous pesticides in coffee-growing regions, some of which are restricted or banned in many countries.
Worker Welfare and Exposure
Chemical usage in coffee production affects not only the environment but also the health of farm workers. In many regions, proper protective equipment is unavailable or unused, and workers may face chronic exposure to potentially harmful substances.
“The farmers are always stuck with the worst chemical exposure,” shares James Chapman, founder of Black Coffee Roasting Co.
He also notes that commercial coffee farmers often become dependent on synthetic chemicals, which only increase in use over time as pests and weeds develop resistance.
Studies in coffee-growing regions have documented higher rates of certain health issues among workers regularly exposed to agricultural chemicals, including respiratory problems and skin conditions.
Consumer Waste
The environmental impact of coffee continues long after production. Single-use coffee pods, disposable cups, and packaging contribute millions of tons of waste to landfills annually. Coffee pods in particular have drawn criticism—billions are used each year, with most made from materials that are not biodegradable or easily recycled.
What Can You Do About It?
The coffee industry’s negative impact on the environment is undeniable. The good news is you don’t have to give up your daily brew to make a difference. You can, however, make small, intentional choices to help reduce the negative impact of commercial coffee production while supporting more sustainable practices.
Here’s what you can do:
Choose Sustainable and Ethical Coffee
Despite the rise of large commercial coffee farms, many small farmers still prioritize sustainability, using traditional and eco-friendly growing methods.
Organic coffee, for example, is cultivated without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, helping to maintain soil and water health. When buying coffee, look for certifications like Fair Trade, Rainforest Alliance, or USDA Organic — these are great indicators of coffee produced with better environmental and labor practices.
However, it’s important to note that there are many dedicated farmers who grow coffee using truly organic methods but can’t afford the high cost of certification. That’s where transparency and a direct connection with coffee producers come in — values we uphold at Better Grounds.
We believe that genuine organic farming goes beyond certification, so we source coffee from producers who prioritize soil health, biodiversity, and long-term sustainability.
We’ve curated 100+ sustainably sourced coffees from some of the best roasters in the country — each bag traceable to the farm that produces it. Explore our extensive collection here or consider a subscription to have better, mindfully sourced coffee delivered on your schedule.
Reduce Waste
Coffee consumption generates waste, from packaging to disposable cups. You can opt for reusable mugs, compost coffee grounds, and choose brands with sustainable packaging to lessen your footprint.
Your brewing method matters, too. Manual brewing methods like French press or pour-over produce less waste than single-use coffee pods. If you use a machine, choose one with a reusable filter.
Instead of tossing used coffee grounds, repurpose them as compost, natural fertilizer, or even a gentle exfoliant. You can also use them to neutralize odors in your fridge or as a natural cleaning scrub.
Beyond coffee itself, be mindful of accessories—avoid single-use stirrers and straws, opt for biodegradable or reusable options, and seek out cafes that offer discounts for bringing your own cup. Every small change adds up!
Support Local and Small-Scale Roasters
Smaller roasters often have closer relationships with farmers and prioritize quality over mass production. Buying from them helps sustain better farming practices and keeps more money within coffee-growing communities.
By making mindful choices, you can continue enjoying your coffee while contributing to a more sustainable and ethical industry.
Brewing a Sustainable Future
Coffee is more than a daily ritual—it’s connected to people, communities, and the planet. While its production has challenges, small, mindful choices can create real change.
By supporting ethical sourcing, sustainable farming, and responsible businesses, we help protect the land, the farmers, and the future of coffee itself. Every cup is an opportunity to do better—for the environment and for the people who make our coffee possible.
Frequently Asked Questions About Commercial Coffee Production
How does commercial coffee production affect the environment?
Commercial coffee production can lead to deforestation, loss of biodiversity, soil degradation, and increased use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, which may harm ecosystems and water sources.
What is "shade-grown" coffee, and why is it important?
Shade-grown coffee is cultivated under a canopy of trees, preserving forest habitats and supporting biodiversity. This method contrasts with sun cultivation, which often involves clearing trees and can negatively impact the environment.
How much water is required to produce a cup of coffee?
On average, producing the coffee beans for one cup requires about 140 liters of water, considering the entire cultivation process.
Is climate change affecting coffee production?
Yes, climate change is leading to increased droughts and shifting weather patterns, reducing suitable land for coffee cultivation and affecting crop yields.
What sustainable practices are coffee farmers adopting to combat environmental challenges?
Farmers are implementing regenerative agriculture techniques, such as reducing chemical use, integrating biological alternatives, and planting native trees, to enhance resilience against climate change and promote sustainability. Learn more about organic farming practices here.
