In the heart of Indonesia, a nation celebrated for its rich coffee culture, a looming crisis threatens the very essence of this cherished drink. Irvan Helmi, speaking at TEDxJakarta, reveals a disturbing forecast: by 2050, coffee, as we know it, could be on the brink of extinction due to climate change.
Indonesia’s coffee industry, home to a diverse array of unique single-origin coffees, faces unprecedented challenges. Sixty percent of coffee species are endangered, placing 1.2 million farmers at risk. This crisis isn’t just about losing a morning ritual; it’s a threat to biodiversity and livelihoods.
Helmi highlights the plight of coffee species like Arabica and Robusta, the backbone of specialty coffees, now endangered due to shifting climatic patterns. The increasing temperatures force farmers to consider unsustainable options like relocating to protected forests, a choice that brings its own set of ecological dilemmas.
The TEDx talk unveils the harsh realities of climate change’s impact: erratic rainfall leading to unpredictable harvests, increased operational costs, and reduced profitability for farmers like Abah Ai Suteja from West Java. These shifts not only affect the quantity but also the quality of coffee, as temperature fluctuations are crucial for flowering and fruit development.
Helmi emphasizes the need for adaptation, data-driven farming practices, and technological implementation to mitigate these challenges. He calls for a collaborative effort involving the coffee community, from growers to consumers, to preserve the diversity and sustainability of Indonesian coffee.
In conclusion, Helmi’s message is clear: the fate of Indonesian coffee is not just a concern for farmers or coffee enthusiasts, but a global issue that demands immediate attention and action. As we sip our next cup of coffee, let’s remember the intricate and fragile journey behind its creation, and the urgent need to safeguard it for future generations.
