Climate shift spurs innovation in morning beverages
Amid climate concerns threatening traditional coffee production, startups are brewing up innovative alternatives like "beanless coffee," aiming to balance environmental sustainability with consumer cravings for a morning caffeine fix.
L.V. Anderson reports for Grist.
In short:
- Climate change threatens traditional coffee production, prompting startups to explore alternative options.
- Companies like Atomo and Northern Wonder are developing "beanless coffee" using sustainable ingredients such as date seeds and chickpeas.
- These alternatives aim to mitigate environmental impact while providing a caffeine boost.
Key quote:
"Coffee is a ritual and it’s a result. And that's what we're replicating."
— Andy Kleitsch, CEO of Atomo
Why this matters:
Instead of relying on coffee plants, which require extensive resources and land, beanless coffee can be produced through alternative ingredients like chicory, dandelion roots, or other plant-based sources. These substitutes not only offer a more environmentally friendly option but also diversify agricultural practices, potentially mitigating the risks associated with monoculture farming.
Coffee drinker that cares about your environmental footprint? Buy shade-grown coffee, brew it by French press, and dispose of the coffee grounds in compost.
