Muddy Boots

At Hanns R. Neumann Stiftung (HRNS), proximity to farming families is key to sustainable coffee production. By working side by side with smallholder farmers, HRNS fosters practical, knowledge-driven solutions tailored to real-world challenges. Through initiatives like climate adaptation, agroforestry, and business development, farmers enhance productivity, resilience, and sustainability. Stories from Brazil highlight how direct engagement empowers farmers—improving soil health, reducing agrochemical use, and supporting women and youth in coffee entrepreneurship. This collaborative approach ensures long-term impact, strengthening livelihoods and fostering innovation across generations.

Climate change threatens global coffee production, particularly in monoculture systems that degrade soil and increase vulnerability to pests and extreme weather. Agroforestry and syntropic agriculture offer sustainable alternatives by integrating diverse plant species, improving soil health, and reducing dependency on chemical inputs. A pilot project in Minas Gerais, Brazil, led by Hanns R. Neumann Stiftung (HRNS), is converting 500 hectares of coffee monoculture into agroforestry, training farmers in climate-resilient practices. Despite challenges such as initial investment and labor demands, tailored support, profitable business models, and strategic planning can facilitate a successful transition. Sustainable coffee farming secures both farmer livelihoods and the future of high-quality coffee.