Listen up: Coffee Watch and CATIE just dropped a game-changer for the industry. On January 19, 2026, the Coffee Agroforestry E-Library launched as the first open-access database compiling decades of scientific research on shade-grown coffee—a practice that’s not just sustainable, but essential for the future of coffee farming. This platform unites studies from across the globe, spanning multiple languages and disciplines, into a single, searchable hub. It’s a seismic shift for a sector grappling with climate threats, biodiversity loss, and economic instability.
Agroforestry isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a lifeline. Shade-grown coffee systems integrate trees with crops, creating ecosystems that combat climate change, sequester carbon, and protect wildlife. Yet, fragmented research has left farmers and policymakers stuck in a maze of conflicting practices. The E-Library cuts through the noise, offering a centralized repository of peer-reviewed studies, technical guides, and policy insights. Imagine having access to every breakthrough in soil health, water conservation, and income diversification—all in one place. That’s the power of this tool.
The database isn’t static. It’s a “living resource,” evolving with new findings and on-the-ground innovations. From climate adaptation strategies to biodiversity outcomes, its scope is vast. But the stakes are clear: scientists warn that half of global coffee could vanish by 2050 if we don’t act. The E-Library arms stakeholders with the knowledge to fight back. Eduardo Somarriba of CATIE calls it a “must-read” for anyone involved in coffee’s future. Whether you’re a farmer, buyer, or policymaker, this resource is your playbook for survival.
This database bridges fragmented research, offering a centralized hub for farmers and policymakers. It’s a living resource, updating with new studies to keep pace with evolving science. For anyone involved in coffee, this library is a must-read for understanding sustainable practices.
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Questions & Answers
What is the Coffee Agroforestry E-Library?
It’s a database with research on shade-grown coffee systems, supporting sustainable farming practices and biodiversity.
Who launched the Coffee Agroforestry E-Library?
Coffee Watch launched it to provide accessible, science-based resources for coffee growers and researchers.
Information sourced from industry reports and news outlets.
