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From farm to cup and beyond, coffee sustainability covers far more than recycling pods. I recently visited Adams & Russell Coffee Roasters in Birkenhead (near Liverpool) to discuss how they champion eco-friendly practices and how home baristas can follow suit.
What Sets Adams & Russell Apart In Sustainable Roasting?
Adams & Russell:
“We’re speciality roasters, sourcing high-grade, traceable Arabica beans from around the world, and roasting in small batches to maximise flavour and freshness
Our artisan approach means adjusting the roast for each cultivar, so beans aren’t just fresh, they’re optimised.”
You Stock Fairtrade And Organic Coffees -Why Is That Important?
Adams & Russell:
“Fairtrade certification guarantees a minimum price to farmers, protecting them from volatile markets. It also promotes environmental standards- like maintaining soil and water quality, avoiding chemicals, and preserving biodiversity”
“We also feature coffees like the ANEI organic Colombian single-plantation, grown by agroecological producers harmonising with nature and bundles from women’s cooperatives proud to build sustainable communities .”
What About Packaging – How Does Adams & Russell Reduce Plastic Waste?
Adams & Russell:
“We’re moving toward completely recyclable or compostable packaging. Customers can even refill their containers in-store. Bulk buying means less packaging and fresher coffee.”
Let’s Bring Sustainability Into The Home. What Are Easy Eco-Friendly Brewing Changes?
Adams & Russell:
“Start with your brewing device – French press, AeroPress, V60, Chemex – no single-use pods needed.
We recommend unbleached, compostable paper filters or reusable stainless-steel mesh. And, buying whole beans and grinding just before brewing makes coffee fresher and cuts waste”
Beyond Brewing – What Happens To Spent Grounds And Chaff?
Adams & Russell:
“Used coffee grounds are rich in nitrogen, which is fantastic for compost or garden mulch. They naturally repel slugs, too,” they explain. Plus, bigger savings come when using coffee chaff – the papery husk from roasting.
We collect chaff via our Vortx filtered roaster system and customers can take it to add to compost or use as mulch
It’s a simple but powerful example of circular economy thinking.”
What Sustainable Coffee Tools Do You Recommend?
Adams & Russell:
“We love the Circular & Co reusable cup, made in the UK from recycled paper cups, designed for 10 years of use and fully recyclable at end of life.
We also stock stainless filters, V60s, grinders etc. Buy a good-quality tool and it lasts, reducing repeat replacement.”
Let’s Tackle The Hidden Costs: Energy Use
Adams & Russell:
“Boil only what you need, switch your machine off after use, and try cold brew. Big batches stored in the fridge eliminate repeated heating, they say.
Manual brewers require no electricity, and grounding beans by hand further reduces energy needs.”
How About Milk And Sweeteners – Any Sustainable Swaps There?
Adams & Russell:
“For milk, go plant-based in returnable glass or recyclable cartons. Swap single-serve sugar packets for bulk sugar jars or make your own syrups.
We offer sugar-free Sweetbird syrups with simple flavours – just use 1-2 tbsp per drink”
Any Fun DIY Coffee Projects You’d Suggest?
Adams & Russell:
“Definitely.
Use grounds and coconut oil for body scrubs, deodorise fridges with dried grounds, and sprinkle chaff or leftover grounds around acid-loving plants.
You can even craft coffee-scented candles with melted wax and chaff.”
Ultimately, Adams & Russell
“Our aim is simple: close the loop on waste, support farmers, and let people enjoy their coffee with purpose,”
Their model – from direct trade sourcing and recyclable packaging to chaff recycling and reusable tools – offers a blueprint for any coffee lover looking to reduce their footprint.
By applying a few of these strategies (bulk buying, waste reuse, reusable tools, and mindful brewin) you can turn your morning cup into a low-impact ritual. As Adams & Russell remind us: it’s not about perfection, it’s about progress. And in coffee, every small change adds up to a big difference.
