Welcome to Part 2 of my Steemit series about the fascinating world of the coffee plant. In this entry, we will dive deeper into some fun facts and interesting developments that will make you appreciate your morning cup of joe even more.
First, did you know that coffee is the second most traded commodity in the world, after oil? It's true! The global coffee industry is worth billions of dollars and employs millions of people worldwide.
Now, let's talk about some of the latest developments in the coffee industry. One of the most exciting is the emergence of new, unique and rare coffee varieties. For example, the Gesha variety, originally from Ethiopia, is known for its intense floral and citrus notes and can fetch up to $350 per pound. Another is Black Ivory coffee, which is made from beans that have been eaten by elephants and other animals, collected from their dung, cleaned, and then roasted.
Another interesting development is the increasing popularity of organic and sustainable coffee farming. Many farmers are now implementing environmentally-friendly practices, such as using natural fertilizers and reducing water usage, to produce high-quality coffee while preserving the environment.
On the other hand, the coffee industry is also facing some challenges.
Climate change is having a significant impact on coffee production, with rising temperatures and changing rainfall patterns affecting the growth and yield of coffee plants. But, many researchers and farmers are working on developing new varieties of coffee that are more resistant to these changes, as well as implementing sustainable farming practices to mitigate the effects of climate change.
Another challenge facing the coffee industry is the issue of fair trade and labor practices. Unfortunately, many coffee workers, especially in developing countries, are not paid fair wages or are subject to poor working conditions. This is why many consumers are now choosing to purchase fair trade or ethically-sourced coffee, which ensures that farmers and workers are paid fair wages and treated fairly.
So, as you can see, the world of the coffee plant is not just about growing, harvesting and brewing the beans, but it is also about the people and the planet that are involved in the process. It is fascinating to see how the industry is evolving and adapting to new challenges, and it is important that we, as consumers, make conscious choices and support sustainable and fair practices.
Stay tuned for the next entry in my series, where we will explore the journey of the coffee bean from the farm to your cup. Cheers to coffee!