Peru Coffee

In Brief:

This project seeks to improve the soil fertility for coffee production that is adaptable to the reality of small producers in Peru who are focused on the organic coffee market. The cultivation of coffee is developed on the eastern slopes of the Andes between 1,000 and 2,000 meters above sea level. In Peru, there are about 150,000 small producers with farms ranging between 0.5 and 5 hectares. Producers have traditionally installed coffee under the shade of the tree species Inga which provides nitrogen. However, the landscape has been severely affected by deforestation, and the natural fertility of the soil has been lost by insufficient tree coverage and agricultural practices that apply no inputs to the soil. These factors make it difficult for small producers to compete in the global organic coffee market.

Category:

Food and agriculture; agronomy and soil science; environmental sustainability; ecology; and botany.

Current Status:

The seeker, Practical Action in Peru, has conducted some basic soil analysis, the results of which indicate chemical deficiencies. Science for Humanity members have raised some important issues for the seeker to consider. In particular, Dr. Peter Baker from CABI has commented on the soil analysis data and has requested the seeker to provide specific additional information.

Requirements:

Science for Humanity is working to identify scientists with both relevant knowledge and field experience in food and agriculture, agronomy and soil science, ecology, and environmental science to work on this project. We are also looking for volunteers in Peru who can work closely with the Practical Action Peru team to gather data for our researchers.

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Project Impact:

A solution to this challenge will provide economic benefit to local coffee producers in Peru who will be able to compete in the global market for organic coffee. The solution can also have implications for communities with similar challenges in soil infertility and food production in tropical regions and areas affected by deforestation.

Get Involved:

To see more details or to get involved join the Peru Coffee Group in our membership area here