Guatemala
Guatemala's renowned coffee beans thrive in the nutrient-rich soils shaped by its numerous volcanoes, the origin of countless streams and rivers. This delicate balance, however, faces a threat from poor agronomic practices, degrading the soils and endangering the vital water supplies of downstream communities. To counter this trend, CRS’s Blue Harvest approach, works in collaboration with farmers, stakeholders, and markets. The aim is to regenerate coffee landscapes, transforming them into vibrant sources of water, sustainable incomes, and beloved coffee.
10
Coffee Cooperatives (Goal)
5000
Coffee Farmers (Goal)
16000
Hectacres under regenerative agriculture (Goal)
Guatemala needs regenerative agriculture.
Guatemala's iconic coffee landscapes are grappling with pressing challenges that demand a shift toward regenerative agriculture. Widespread soil degradation plagues these regions, with approximately 84% of coffee lands overused and facing nutrient depletion and reduced fertility1. The conventional practices employed by coffee farmers contribute to water pollution, notably from wet mills discharging contaminants into water sources, affecting rivers and streams crucial for local communities. Additionally, the excessive reliance on external inputs, such as chemical fertilizers and pesticides, has detrimental ecological impacts, exacerbating the environmental toll.
In response to these critical issues, CRS's Blue Harvest approach is pioneering regenerative agriculture solutions through the Horizons Initiative and the Water Smart Agriculture project. Through an integrated approach center of on-farm regenerative practices, territorial governance structures and shared value markets, Blue Harvest addresses soil health, aiming to rehabilitate over 15,000 hectares of degraded land in Guatemala. By promoting sustainable wet mill practices, the initiative reduces in water pollution, safeguarding vital water sources for downstream communities. Furthermore, Blue Harvest advocates for innovative and resource-efficient farming methods, curbing the excessive use of external inputs. In aligning with global regenerative agriculture principles, CRS is at the forefront of transforming Guatemala's coffee landscapes into resilient, sustainable ecosystems.
1 - IARNA Perfil Ambiental de Guatemala - Tierras
On-Farm Training and Technical Support
We provide training and expertise in water and soil conservation, soil fertility management, agronomy, and crop quality to increase farm profitability and climate resilience.
Water Resources Management
We monitor and measure water and soil resources using state-of-the-art hydrological and agronomic science, then share data through user-friendly maps and dashboards so that farmers and buyers to understand how their products impact on water resources: #knowyoursource
Linking Producers and Buyers
We connect farmers with buyers of high-quality and sustainable products, primarily coffee and cacao. We ensure that farm products meet the standards buyers expect.
Learning and Advocacy
Blue Harvest partners are committed to continuous learning and improving, by constantly sharing and engaging with researchers, businesses, and the public sector. We advocate for policies and practices that promote regenerative agriculture and protect water sources.
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