The race to develop coffee that can survive climate change

El Salvador's coffee industry faces existential threats from leaf rust and climate change, reducing exports to 2%. Researchers are developing climate-resistant hybrids, but small farmers struggle with costs. Organizations like Blue Harvest offer support, promoting new farming techniques and crop diversification. Economic implications include job loss and migration, with efforts underway to restore the industry.

What was the primary cause of the decline in El Salvador's coffee exports?

• Poor marketing strategies

• Lack of government support

• A disease called leaf rust

• Increased competition from other countries

Why are early flowering coffee plants problematic for farmers?

• They must endure longer dry seasons

• They require more water

• They attract more pests

• They produce fewer beans

What alternative crop is Jorge Garcia trying to grow?

• Bananas

• Sugarcane

• Cocoa

• Tea

What is one technique promoted by Blue Harvest to help farmers adapt to climate change?

• Planting more coffee trees

• Increasing soil humidity through mulching

• Reducing farm size

• Using chemical fertilizers

What is a major challenge for small farmers in adopting new hybrid plants?

• Lack of interest

• Insufficient land

• High cost and limited access to credit

• Government restrictions

How has the coffee crisis affected employment in El Salvador?

• Increased job opportunities

• No significant impact

• Reduced employment from 300,000 to 86,000 people

• Shifted jobs to urban areas

What is the potential benefit of second-generation hybrid coffee plants?

• They grow faster

• They produce larger beans

• They require less water

• They are more disease-resistant