The Institute for Scientific Information on Coffee (ISIC) has commissioned a comprehensive review by the French Agricultural Research Centre for International Development (CIRAD) to standardise the measurement of green coffee’s carbon footprint. Traditional methods of measuring green coffee's environmental impact have varied, often due to the complexity of agricultural lifecycle assessments. The review, published in Sustainable Production and Consumption, identifies the challenges in current methodologies and offers recommendations to improve accuracy. Factors affecting the carbon footprint include land use changes, nitrogen fertiliser usage, and processing emissions. The study emphasises the necessity for consistent application of guidelines, comprehensive data collection, and transparency in lifecycle assessments. By addressing these factors, the review aims to provide a more accurate picture of green coffee's environmental impact, aiding in the development of sustainable practices. Ultimately, the goal is to support coffee farmers and researchers in mitigating the environmental impacts of coffee production while ensuring the sustainability of this vital commodity.
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