Coffee Project
Screening for plant characteristics related to water-efficiency has only recently started in a few organizations,
in particular in Brazil and Ethiopia. Coffee plant collections of different characteristics are fragmented
throughout many organisations and it is unclear, which organisation has the most promising varieties. Nestlé
has one of the largest collections of coffee varieties in the world and is thus considered an important piece
of the global coffee plant puzzle. Although Nestlé has not previously screened for water-related characteristics,
the following main activities are planned:
- Reinforce and build relationships with major coffee R&D organisations in Brazil and Ethiopia
-
Start Nestlé’s own screening program for the following water-related characteristics
(in addition to quality and yield) in coffee plants:
- lower overall water demand
- fewer and shorter irrigation cycles
- less drought sensitivity and fast recovery after droughts
As early as 2010 Nestlé expects to identify a number of plants through advanced propagation technology that
would potentially expand the choices available to farmers. These improved plants can be quickly propagated
to pilot-stage, and eventually to large scale. Significantly improved water efficiency and reduced drought
sensitivity could be achieved by an optimised combination of plant material, propagation and farming techniques.
An additional benefit of the project will identify the exact minimum amount of water necessary to ensure yield
and quality, thereby limiting any unnecessary irrigation. The improved plant material will be made available
to regional public institutions and nurseries from which farmers supply their plants. The technology will
also benefit the propriety plants for Nestlé’s premium coffees to become more drought tolerant and water efficient.