The Melbourne International Coffee Expo (MICE) is proud to be teaming up with UTZ Certified to support the Energy from Coffee Wastewater project.
As part of the partnership, show organisers will host a fundraising event, A MICE Night Out to raise money to support the construction of water treatment plants in Central America.
These treatment plants, piloted by UTZ, have the ability to treat wastewater while also creating biogas that can be used as energy. The event is sponsored by Espresso Mechanics, Brita Professional, Big Kitchen Events, and Grinders Coffee.
“The ongoing pollution of freshwater resources around the world for the production of coffee is a frightening reality,” says Brad Buchanan, MICE General Manager. “Thousands of tonnes of wastewater, filled with organic waste and toxins, are being released untreated into rivers, affecting the health and wellbeing of coffee communities.”
A cup of coffee requires an astounding 140 litres of water to be produced. Under the Energy from Coffee Wastewater pilot project, mills are able to reduce water usage anywhere from 40 to 70 per cent, and safely dispose of up to 89 per cent of contaminated water.
The plants produce enough energy to power the coffee mill and heat the treatment system, reducing the need for firewood and saving local forests.
Although these plants have clear advantages, they are unaffordable for coffee farmers who, especially in Latin America, struggle to feed themselves throughout the year.
“We feel honoured and thankful to be backed by MICE with the expansion of our project,” says Han De Groot, Executive Director at UTZ Certified. “Coffee production is only sustainable when water is used efficiently and polluted water from the wet-mill process is treated; raising awareness about it and taking action is the way to go.”
Although the cause is serious, A MICE Night Out is sure to be a fun-filled evening, filled with live music, cocktails and more. The evening will also serve as the announcement for the winners of the Australian International Coffee Awards (AICA).
“We’re proud to be supporting such an impressive initiative, that has the ability to secure the sustainability of the coffee industry for generations to come,” says MICE’s Brad.
A MICE Night Out will take place on Thursday 12 March at 64 Sutton Street, North Melbourne.
For more information visit www.internationalcoffeeexpo.com.
About Melbourne International Coffee Expo (MICE2015)
The Melbourne International Coffee Expo (MICE) is Australia’s largest trade and consumer-dedicated coffee show in the Southern Hemisphere. MICE2015 will take place from 13 – 15 March 2015 at the Melbourne Showgrounds.
For more information visit www.internationalcoffeeexpo.com.
About UTZ Certified
UTZ Certified is a program and label for sustainable farming of coffee, cocoa and tea. Its mission is to create a world where sustainable farming is the norm.
The UTZ Certified Program enables farmers to learn better farming methods, to improve working conditions and to take better care of people and the environment. For more information visit www.utzcertified.org.
