Banca de DEFESA: GUSTAVO QUEIROGA BENTO

Low Carbon Coffee Growing: Current Events and Prospects.

Low carbon coffee farming; regenerative agriculture; Sustainability in coffee production.

This work aimed to analyze low carbon coffee growing, focusing on regenerative agriculture, and investigate its environmental, economic and social impacts. To achieve this objective, a comprehensive literature review was carried out on the concepts, principles and practices of low carbon coffee growing, as well as a comparative analysis of conventional, organic and low carbon production systems. The methodology used consisted of data collection through interviews with coffee producers, application of questionnaires, bibliographic review and analysis of performance indicators. The interviews allowed obtaining valuable information about the practices adopted by the producers and the challenges faced in the transition to low carbon coffee growing. The questionnaires helped collect quantitative data on performance indicators such as productivity, water use, CO2 emissions, cost of production, selling price and profitability. The results obtained revealed significant differences between conventional, organic and low-carbon production systems. While the conventional system is characterized by the intensive use of chemical inputs, high carbon emissions and low environmental sustainability, the organic and low-carbon system stands out for sustainable practices, such as the efficient use of inputs, biological pest control, soil conservation and reducing carbon emissions.Sustainable production systems promote the resilience of producers in the face of climate change, add value to the final product and contribute to environmental conservation. The methodology used in this study allowed obtaining a comprehensive view of the challenges and benefits of low-carbon coffee growing, as well as the results obtained by producers who adopted regenerative practices. The results highlighted the importance of collaboration between producers, governments, research institutions and consumers in promoting sustainable coffee farming. In conclusion, low-carbon coffee farming, with an emphasis on regenerative agriculture, has proven to be a promising approach to promote sustainability in coffee production. The results of this study emphasize the importance of sustainable practices, such as soil health, crop diversification, use of renewable resources and community collaboration. These practices result in environmental, economic and social benefits, contributing to the construction of a more sustainable and responsible value chain. However, the transition to low-carbon coffee farming requires continued efforts, adequate investments and favorable public policies. The search for sustainability in coffee growing is a challenge, but also an opportunity to build a more resilient, competitive and environmentally aware sector.