Did you know coffee grows best in specific climates? There are only certain regions in the world suitable for coffee production, and they are known as the "Bean Belt." However, rising temperatures, unpredictable weather, drought, water scarcity, soil degradation, and other effects caused by climate change may harm coffee crops, leading to decreased yields and reduced income in affected areas.

According to the World Coffee Research annual report, 47% of global coffee production comes from countries that could lose over 60% of their suitable land by 2050. Even less-affected regions are likely to lose up to 30% of their coffee-growing areas due to climate change.

What does this mean to us? Higher coffee prices as global demand increases and supply decreases; potential threats to Arabica (Coffea arabica), which makes up over 60% of global production due to its sensitivity to temperature and pests; and greater reliance on Robusta (Coffea canephora) which is known for its resilience but distinct flavor profile.
These make sustainable practices and climate adaptation in coffee production more critical than ever. Get to know more about such practices when you enroll in our online course on “Regenerative Agriculture para sa Climate-Resilient na Sistema ng Pagkakape”. It’s a 2-module course that delves into the impacts of climate change on coffee farming, and presents regenerative agriculture strategies to mitigate these effects. The course was developed by Nestlé Philippines, and the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ).

Since ancient times, people have harnessed the healing properties of plants—practicing herbal medicine as both a science and a cultural tradition. This practice, known as herbalism (or phytotherapy or botanical medicine) is one of the oldest systems of medicine in history.
Herbs are diverse plants with fleshy, non-woody parts, including trees, shrubs, vines, ferns, mosses, algae, and fungi. They are valued for their medicinal and health benefits, flavor and fragrance, industrial and economic uses, pesticidal properties, and natural coloring materials.

Recognizing the importance of these plants, the Department of Health (DOH) has endorsed the 10 Philippine Medicinal Herbs through its Traditional Health Program, established under Republic Act 8423, also known as the Traditional and Alternative Medicine Act (TAMA) of 1997.

This online course on “Herb Production, Processing, and Utilization” is brought to you by the ATI in Western Visayas.

The coconut tree (Cocos nucifera L.) is called the Tree of Life because every part of it can be used. From its meat, oil, juice, husk, and shell to its trunk, leaves, and roots—it fuels industries, supports communities, and promotes sustainability. 

Here in the Philippines, coconuts play an important role in agriculture and the economy. With 69 provinces cultivating this wonder crop, it supports the livelihood of over 2.5 million farmers nationwide. In 2020, the Philippines ranked as the 3rd largest producer of coconuts in the world.

Coconuts come in two main varieties: dwarf and tall. The dwarf varieties are early bloomers that bear fruit within 3-4 years; they are self-pollinating and ideal for selected areas; they have shorter lifespans of less than 50 years, and are more sensitive to weather conditions. Meanwhile, the tall varieties produce fruits through cross-pollination; they take 5-7 years to mature, but are highly productive; they  thrive in diverse environments, and can live for more than 60 years.