Resource information
Overproduction of coffee and low coffee prices have resulted in a global crisis affecting the people and biodiversity of many tropical countries. The authors, from the Wildlife Conservation Society in Indonesia, describe expanding production of low-quality robusta coffee, which contributes to low prices and lowland deforestation, but is not improving the livelihood of local farmers. They argue that further increased coffee production will increase deforestation in national parks and disproportionately affect Sumatran tigers, elephants, and rhinoceroses.The authors argue for new certification guidelines, better protected area enforcement, improved agricultural practices, and a reduction in area planted in coffee as critical for poverty alleviation and biodiversity conservation.[Adapted from authors]
