JANUARY - FEBRUARY 202619In regions with developed green hydrogen infrastructure, roasters are incorporating hydrogen-ready burners into their production lines. This diversification of the energy mix ensures the industry remains resilient while adhering to increasingly stringent air-quality and carbon-intensity standards. Additionally, the implementation of "smart roasting" software--utilising machine learning to optimise roast profiles for maximum energy efficiency--has become a standard operational practice, ensuring that every megajoule of energy is utilised with surgical precision.Circularity and the Integration of Lifecycle ManagementThe European coffee roasting industry is moving toward a circular economy, driven by the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR). This regulation sets mandatory targets for recyclability and requires post-consumer recycled content in all coffee packaging. In response, the industry is shifting from complex, multi-material laminates to mono-material solutions that are fully compatible with European recycling systems.The management of "side streams"--products previously considered waste, such as coffee silverskin and spent grounds--has become integral to the roasting business model. Silverskin, the husk detached during the roasting process, is now widely repurposed as a raw material for paper production or as a nutrient-rich additive in the agricultural sector. Similarly, the collection and processing of organic waste within the roasting facility are managed through closed-loop systems that produce biogas or bio-composites.This holistic approach to lifecycle management is underpinned by the requirement for comprehensive Lifecycle Assessments (LCA). These assessments provide a quantitative measure of a product's environmental footprint from "cradle to grave." These metrics are integrated into the aforementioned Digital Product Passports, allowing for a seamless flow of information from the roaster to the end consumer. This level of detail ensures that every decision--from selecting a shipping route to choosing a sealable valve--is made with a clear understanding of its cumulative impact on the industry's sustainability goals.The European roasting industry stands as a global leader in applying mandatory sustainability standards. Through the rigorous application of regulatory frameworks, the adoption of cutting-edge thermal technologies, and a commitment to circularity, the sector has successfully transitioned into a model of transparency and environmental stewardship. The standards established within the European Union are now serving as the definitive blueprint for the global coffee trade, ensuring that the future of coffee is as resilient as it is sustainable.
< Page 9 | Page 11 >