Strengthening Extension and Innovation Networks for Regenerative Coffee
(Room 24 AB)
10 Apr 26
12:00 PM
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1:15 PM
Across the coffee sector, interest in regenerative and biodiversity-friendly farming is higher than ever. Yet when climate shocks, pests, diseases, or market downturns hit, farmers often fall back on conventional practices. This reliance is not necessarily due to lack of interest at the farm level, but because there is a dearth of trusted and accessible information and support systems in place to help farmers respond to agronomic challenges using non-conventional means. This panel brings together farmers, NGOs, and industry partners working on strategies to close that gap.
In this panel, we will explore ways that agricultural information actually moves in coffee communities: farmer-to-farmer learning, cooperative and extension systems, and industry-funded field programs. Our panelists will highlight examples from across the supply chain to show what’s working and where the biggest opportunities lie. We’ll also share early lessons from a new collaborative effort led by Smithsonian Bird Friendly and regional partners to build an applied research and extension pipeline for biodiversity-friendly agriculture. The goal is simple: equip farmers and extension agents with proven organic and regenerative techniques, and identify priority research gaps that industry and research networks can help close. Attendees will walk away with a clear understanding of how roasters, baristas, and supply-chain teams can engage, from supporting farm-level R&D to strengthening long-term extension networks that help producers stay resilient.