To celebrate International Coffee Day, the ICO has called for all within the coffee industry to unite in the spirit of solidarity.
Every year, the world comes together to celebrate coffee and recognise the millions of people across the globe who work hard to create the beverage we all love. This year, more than ever, the International Coffee Organisation (ICO) is calling on all stakeholders in the global coffee value chain to unite in a spirit of solidarity and shared purpose. The campaign emphasises that coffee is synonymous with collaboration, making it a powerful driver of income generation, sustainable development, and resilient communities.
The 2025 theme highlights the essential role of collaboration across the entire coffee value chain, from farmers and cooperatives to traders, roasters, baristas and consumers, in securing sustainable livelihoods and shared prosperity.
“Coffee is a product of many hands and many hearts. When farmers, cooperatives, researchers, roasters, traders, baristas and consumers work together, we create opportunities for income, resilience and environmental stewardship,” said Vanúsia Nogueira, Executive Director of the International Coffee Organisation.
“This year’s campaign calls for practical collaboration that delivers real benefits along the whole chain. Join us, take part in the challenges and show how, together, coffee can be a force for good.”
The ICO recently released its Coffee Development Report, which highlighted the circular economy’s potential within the sector.
The report revealed that coffee processing generates over 40 million tonnes of waste, creating challenges for sustainable management within the coffee value chain. However, this renewable biological material, including pulp, parchment, husk, and spent grounds, contains valuable compounds with cross-industry applications in health, packaging, and renewable energy.
With 72 percent of by-products produced in coffee-growing regions, significant opportunities arise to transform this waste into value-added products for local use, regenerative agriculture, or export. Promising uses include cosmetics, mushroom cultivation, biochar, and nutrient-rich food products.
A circular economy is built on three main principles: eliminating waste and pollution, circulating products and materials at their highest value, and regenerating nature. By integrating these principles, the coffee industry can boost resource efficiency, improve incomes, and support climate action alongside healthier ecosystems.
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