Bird Friendly Coffee: Part of an Ecosystem

Coffee grown in the shade is growing in popularity. More and more producers are opting for this method of farming, not just because it tastes better (which it does), but because of its contributions to the environment and long-term farming practices. 

While sun-grown coffee requires less labor and produces higher yields, it isn’t sustainable in the long-term. Farmers need to increase their use of fertilizers and their shrubs are more exposed to the elements like harsh temperatures and heavy rainfall. 

Coffee grown in the shade, on the other hand, naturally provides those protections. These farms mimic the natural forests coffee grows in, with native trees to provide a canopy cover over the shrubs, and so much plant and animal diversity that create a regenerative environment that maintains soil’s health and habitats for resident and migratory birds. From an environmental standpoint, this method protects the ecosystem and maintains the habitats for local fauna. From a farming standpoint, these coffee farms’ sustainable practices keep their shrubs healthy, the biodiversity keeps the soil rich and brings in more pollinators. 

The trees in these farms provide thick coverage from the sun and have a sort of greenhouse effect on the coffee shrubs below; they maintain the cool and humid conditions for the shrub to thrive. Under the shade, the coffee shrubs grow at a slower rate, meaning that the cherries spend more time developing flavor and sweetness before ripening. The resulting coffee bean has a more complex and deep flavor profile, so you can actually taste a difference!

So, why are certifications important? Whether it be organic, fair trade or bird friendly, these certifications tell consumers that the product they are buying actually is what it says it is. The Smithsonian Bird Friendly certification ensures that the coffee farms around the world are meeting the necessary standards for organic and sustainable farming that protects the habitats for local biodiversity, especially resident and migratory birds. While many farms without a certification do have sustainable shade-growing practices, the Smithsonian Bird Friendly certification’s high standards ensure long-term positive impacts on the environment, while also tracking the effects this method has on the environment. 

At Ampersand, three of our origins are currently Smithsonian Bird Friendly Certified: Medium and Dark Roast Guatemala, Medium and Dark Roast Honduras, and Medium and Dark Roast Peru, which is also Regenerative Organic Certified! 

Written by Mariana Bastías