Coffee and the environment are deeply intertwined, yet few consumers are aware of the significant environmental impact of the coffee industry. In this episode, Etelle Higonnet, a Yale-trained human rights lawyer and founder of Coffee Watch, joins Andrew to explore the environmental and human rights crises associated with global coffee production. From deforestation and toxic chemical use to plastic waste and ocean pollution, Etelle reveals the harsh truths behind one of the world’s most beloved beverages.

Coffee certification myths are also exposed. Etelle shares how popular labels often fail to guarantee living wages or sustainable farming practices. Together, they explore powerful, practical ways coffee drinkers can become changemakers—from choosing better beans to advocating for stronger policies. This is a must-listen for anyone who wants their habits to align with ocean conservation and climate justice.

Website: https://coffeewatch.org/

Take Action: https://coffeewatch.org/stories-of-hope/

Chapters:

00:00 – Welcome and introduction to coffee and the environment
02:34 – Etelle Higonnet’s path from war crimes tribunals to environmental activism
06:15 – How climate change and conflict are connected
09:28 – The forgotten impact of coffee on deforestation and ocean pollution
13:40 – Why major NGOs overlooked coffee’s role in environmental damage
17:55 – Launching Coffee Watch to fight for systemic industry change
22:10 – The emotional toll of human rights work and the role of love and support
26:30 – Coffee’s environmental footprint: monoculture, chemicals, and plastic waste
31:00 – Certification schemes exposed: Fairtrade, Rainforest Alliance, and more
36:45 – Corporate accountability and lawsuits: Nestlé, Starbucks, McDonald’s
41:50 – The global supply chain problem and who’s really responsible
46:08 – Learning from other industries: palm oil, seafood, cocoa
50:30 – What consumers can do: small actions with big ripple effects
55:22 – Choosing organic, compostable, and living income coffee
01:00:10 – Final call to action: hope, legislation, and grassroots pressure
01:05:35 – Where to go next: CoffeeWatch.org and spreading the message

#oceanconservation #MarineBiology #SaveOurOceans #ProtectTheOcean #OceanAwareness #BluePlanet #ConservationMatters #ScienceForChange #SustainableOceans
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