May 18, 2022

What Does The Number 9 Billion Mean To You?

What does the number 9 billion mean to you?

In 2019 alone, over 9 billion pounds of agricultural chemicals were used globally. That’s nearly double the amount used in 1990.

As the demand for mass-produced crops rises, so does our exposure to the chemical load that comes with it.

What are the risks of pesticides in coffee?

Conventional coffee farming often relies on heavy use of pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, and synthetic fertilizers to increase yield and combat pests.

Health risks

The concern isn’t just about the environment — it’s also about human health. Studies have linked long-term pesticide exposure to serious conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, hormonal disruption, and several types of cancer.

Worker safety and welfare

Workers on coffee farms are often exposed directly through handling and spraying.

"[Pesticides] are overused and under-studied," says James Chapman, founder of Black Coffee Roasting Co., one of our partner roasters here at Better Grounds.

As a roaster who’s spent time on commercial coffee farms, James has seen it firsthand.

“I’ve been on farms where you literally are encouraged as a visitor to not use the water for even washing as it is so laden with chemicals.”

But the people who live and work on those lands? "They have no choice,” shares James, “They are forced to drink and wash in that toxic water."

In many farming communities, contaminated water can lead to long-term health issues like skin conditions, respiratory problems, and even birth defects.

Consumers aren’t immune either.

Even after the roasting process, traces of residual chemicals have been found in conventionally grown coffee.

Residual chemicals refer to the tiny amounts of pesticides and fertilizers that remain on or in crops after harvesting. While roasting can reduce these levels, it doesn’t eliminate them entirely — especially when regulations on imported coffee vary widely from country to country.

How is organic coffee different?

Organic coffee is grown without the use of synthetic pesticides or chemical fertilizers. Instead, farmers use natural methods like composting, crop rotation, and biological pest control to maintain healthy soil and crops.

To be considered organic, farms must meet strict standards that are regularly audited — which means you can trust that your cup of coffee wasn’t produced at the cost of clean air, water, and farmworker health.

Why choose organic coffee?

When you choose organic coffee, you’re not just getting a cleaner cup — you’re making a conscious choice to:

Reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals

Organic coffee is grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, so you’re avoiding residues that often linger on conventionally farmed beans. That means fewer toxins in your morning cup and less strain on your body over time.

Support more sustainable farming practices

Organic farming nurtures the land rather than depleting it, using natural compost, cover crops, and crop rotation to build healthy soil. Choosing organic helps keep harmful chemicals out of the water supply and supports a more regenerative, long-term approach to agriculture.

Protect the health of coffee farmers and their communities

Farmers and workers are the first to feel the impact of chemical-heavy farming. Organic methods reduce their direct exposure to harmful sprays and help create safer, healthier working conditions and living environments.

Preserve biodiversity and soil health for the long term

Organic coffee farms often act as havens for birds, bees, and native plants. These ecosystems thrive without chemical interference, helping maintain the natural balance that makes truly great coffee possible.

It’s one of the simplest everyday decisions you can make with a lasting ripple effect.

Want to make the switch?

Every cup is a chance to support something better — for your body, for the farmers, and for the planet. If you're ready to brew more consciously, we're here to help make that shift easier and more meaningful.

We partner with small-batch, independent roasters across the U.S. who are committed to organic, sustainable practices. Every bag we ship is traceable, ethically sourced, and roasted with care.