In an age where sustainability is increasingly crucial, even the smallest actions can make a significant impact. As coffee lovers, our daily indulgence can have environmental repercussions, from the cultivation of beans to the disposal of cups. However, there are simple steps we can take to minimise our ecological footprint and become more sustainable coffee drinkers. By adopting mindful practices, we can enjoy our favourite brew while contributing to a healthier planet.
Not all beans are made equal:
Start by selecting coffee beans that are sustainably sourced. Look for certifications such as Fair Trade, Rainforest Alliance, or Organic. These certifications ensure that the beans are grown and harvested in environmentally friendly and socially responsible ways, supporting both the planet and the livelihoods of coffee farmers.
That’s why we love Löfbergs. Löfbergs is 100% Rainforest Alliance Certified in the UK and they are one of the largest buyers of Organic and Fairtrade Coffee in the world. Löfbergs biggest investment is with International Coffee Partners (ICP), where they work with several other family-owned coffee companies. The result? Over 100,000 coffee farmers have improved their opportunities to self-support within the framework of ICP.
Your cup counts:
When opting for a reusable coffee cup, you're not only making an eco-friendly choice but also opening doors to exciting opportunities. Did you know: Reusable cup holders can enjoy fast-track entry into The London Coffee Festival!
Rest assured, even if you don’t have a reusable cup, innovations in packaging and the eco-consciousness of the coffee industry mean that recyclable cups can still be a sustainable choice. The LCF branded cup, developed by decent packaging, that you will see all around the festival, can be recycled via traditional paper and cardboard methods. These Aqueous Coated cups are made from responsibly sourced paper, lined with a unique water-based barrier coating, and coloured in water-based inks.
Featuring an advancement into new technology, this unique water-based barrier coating is also certified as industrially compostable to European standards (EN13432), it has passed the home compostable test, including the Earthworm test, meaning you can add these to your home composting projects.
Milk matters:
By making conscientious choices about the milk we add to our coffee, we can contribute positively to environmental conservation and promote a more sustainable future. Plant based alternatives are a great option but dairy can be too. Choose brands committed to high welfare standards and the preservation of the local environment.
How does your garden grow:
After brewing your coffee, don't toss the grounds in the trash. Instead, compost them! Coffee grounds are rich in nitrogen and make an excellent addition to compost piles or bins. By composting coffee grounds, you divert waste from landfills and create nutrient-rich soil for gardening.
Support your local:
When you do visit coffee shops, choose ones that prioritise sustainability. Look for establishments that use eco-friendly practices such as composting, recycling, and energy-efficient appliances. Additionally, enquire about their sourcing practices to ensure they prioritise sustainability from bean to cup.
Behold the innovators:
Coffee brands are now starting to offer recyclable or compostable packaging options. In a world first, Löfbergs are launching coffee packaging made of PE mono-material that not only protects the coffee’s aroma and flavour but can be recycled instead of incinerated. The new packaging will launch in the UK this year and is a big step towards Löfbergs ambition to become 100 per cent circular by 2030 and to only use packaging with recycled or renewable material that can be recycled. Go Löfbergs!
Waste not, want not:
Look out for coffee businesses that partner with charities committed to food rescue and redistribution. By collaborating with organisations like these, coffee shops can minimise waste and make a meaningful impact on their communities. At LCF we’ll be working with City Harvest to make sure nothing goes to waste.
City Harvest’s London-wide operation delivers free food every week to over 375 community partners including foodbanks, schools, hostels, soup kitchens, refuges, and local community hubs. City Harvest also collaborates with and supports like-minded food redistribution charities across the UK who share the same vision, so together, they can have a greater impact on food waste and food poverty.
Becoming a more sustainable coffee drinker doesn't require drastic changes to your routine. By implementing simple steps like choosing sustainably sourced beans and the right packaging, you can significantly reduce your environmental impact. Small actions add up, and by making mindful choices, you can enjoy your daily cup of coffee while contributing to a healthier planet for future generations.
