By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. View our Privacy Policy for more information.

DRAG

Guatemala

Guatemala's renowned coffee beans thrive in the nutrient-rich soils shaped by its numerous volcanoes, the origin of countless streams and rivers. This delicate balance, however, faces a threat from poor agronomic practices, degrading the soils and endangering the vital water supplies of downstream communities. To counter this trend, CRS’s Blue Harvest approach, works in collaboration with farmers, stakeholders, and markets. The aim is to regenerate coffee landscapes, transforming them into vibrant sources of water, sustainable incomes, and beloved coffee.

10

Coffee Cooperatives (Goal)

5000

Coffee Farmers (Goal)

16000

Hectacres under regenerative agriculture (Goal)

Guatemala needs regenerative agriculture.

Guatemala's iconic coffee landscapes are grappling with pressing challenges that demand a shift toward regenerative agriculture. Widespread soil degradation plagues these regions, with approximately 84% of coffee lands overused and facing nutrient depletion and reduced fertility1. The conventional practices employed by coffee farmers contribute to water pollution, notably from wet mills discharging contaminants into water sources, affecting rivers and streams crucial for local communities. Additionally, the excessive reliance on external inputs, such as chemical fertilizers and pesticides, has detrimental ecological impacts, exacerbating the environmental toll.

In response to these critical issues, CRS's Blue Harvest approach is pioneering regenerative agriculture solutions through the Horizons Initiative and the Water Smart Agriculture project. Through an integrated approach center of on-farm regenerative practices, territorial governance structures and shared value markets, Blue Harvest addresses soil health, aiming to rehabilitate over 15,000 hectares of degraded land in Guatemala. By promoting sustainable wet mill practices, the initiative reduces in water pollution, safeguarding vital water sources for downstream communities. Furthermore, Blue Harvest advocates for innovative and resource-efficient farming methods, curbing the excessive use of external inputs. In aligning with global regenerative agriculture principles, CRS is at the forefront of transforming Guatemala's coffee landscapes into resilient, sustainable ecosystems.

1 - IARNA Perfil Ambiental de Guatemala - Tierras

areas of focus

On-Farm Training and Technical Support

We provide training and expertise in water and soil conservation, soil fertility management, agronomy, and crop quality to increase farm profitability and climate resilience.

Water Resources Management

We monitor and measure water and soil resources using state-of-the-art hydrological and agronomic science, then share data through user-friendly maps and dashboards so that farmers and buyers to understand how their products impact on water resources: #knowyoursource

Linking Producers and Buyers

We connect farmers with buyers of high-quality and sustainable products, primarily coffee and cacao. We ensure that farm products meet the standards buyers expect.

Learning and Advocacy

Blue Harvest partners are committed to continuous learning and improving, by constantly sharing and engaging with researchers, businesses, and the public sector. We advocate for policies and practices that promote regenerative agriculture and protect water sources.

partners

In El Salvador, Blue Harvest is led by CRS and local NGOs in partnership with innovative coffee roasters, chocolate companies, and other business partners. The work is supported by the Howard G. Buffett Foundation through the Water Smart Agriculture program and the Agricultural Landscape Restoration Initiative.

Keurig Dr Pepper logo
Howard G Buffett Foundation logo
Catholic Relief Services logo
Hitch logo