UK scientists at Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, are researching the impact climate change is having on the wild Arabica coffee bean in Ethiopia and South Sudan. One in four Ethiopians depends on coffee for their livelihoods.
Communities in Ethiopia and South Sudan will use the data to protect their most vital industry. In the first study of its kind, UK scientists have found that Arabica grown in the world’s coffee plantations are from limited genetic stock and don’t have the flexibility required to cope with climate change.
Ethiopia is getting warmer and the rainy season is getting shorter with more hot days, putting coffee plant species at risk.
The data used has allowed for climate resilient plans to be put in place as part of a future-proofing exercise for the long-term sustainability of Arabica, and therefore Ethiopia’s vital coffee resources.
The UK’s participation theme for Milan Expo 2015 is Grown in Britain & Northern Ireland, led by UKTI with support from seven HM Government Departments.
The Grown in Britain & Northern Ireland global campaign will promote UK capabilities in areas such as creative industries, food and drink, international development, life sciences, technology, agricultural technology and healthcare.
