When I was in my teens, I spent a summer in Guatemala, volunteering with a coffee co-operative. I helped sort beans by hand and connected with people who poured passion into every cup.
But once I entered the working world in a busy city, my coffee routine became anything but mindful. My mornings turned into a blur of takeout cups and single-use pods, more focused on getting caffeine quickly than appreciating the process.
Now, I'm starting fresh. I went back to school (specifically Illy's University of Coffee in London) to test the best regenerative coffee, the latest compostable pods, and non-toxic coffee makers – all in aid of switching up my coffee habits for the better.
Here's how I've created a more mindful coffee ritual, with these very small, but very sustainable swaps
The sustainable setup
My 'eco-chic' coffee ritual blends style and sustainability. It starts with freshly-ground regenerative beans, which are spooned into a non-toxic coffee maker or moka pot. I pour the brew into a timeless coffee cup, then stir with BPA-free accessories. I've waved goodbye to plastic pods – there are no single-use items in sight.
To ensure we can enjoy coffee tomorrow, we need to start regenerating the earth today. Illy's flavorful blend is certified regenerative and sourced from the top 1% of the finest Arabica beans. It restores the soil’s fertility and biodiversity.
This eco-friendly bamboo scoop is designed for functionality and style, with a long handle that makes it easy to reach into jars or coffee tins. It’s the perfect accessory for a waste-free kitchen.
The very finest, handmade coffee grinder from Holland. Recommended by the barista behind our best coffee grinder 2024 guide, this model is mostly made from stainless steel and glass. An item which will last a lifetime.
I first fell in love with the design of this stunning machine. Then, I learnt that it's plastic-free and pairs with illy's regenerative coffee grounds and compostable pods. It's sleek, stylish and versatile enough to last a lifetime.
These stoneware coffee mugs embody the 'buy once, buy well' philosophy. Artfully handcrafted in Portugal, they will last a lifetime in your daily coffee routine. Plus, they are phthalate, BPA, lead, and latex free.
This B-Corp brand repurposes coffee husks to make this travel cup. It's stylish, luxurious to sip from, and it keeps your coffee warm for hours. Naturally, it was voted one of the best travel mugs of 2024.
What is regenerative coffee?
The first step in my sustainable routine was swapping to regenerative coffee. To deepen my understanding, I headed back to school – specifically, illy’s University of Coffee in London – to learn more about what regenerative agriculture truly means and why it’s crucial for the future of coffee.
As the first Italian coffee company to earn B-Corp certification, illy has always pursued excellence. Their signature blend, crafted with beans from across continents, is described as an 'orchestra in a cup' – a perfect harmony of flavors.
But maintaining that iconic blend is becoming increasingly challenging due to climate change. Elena Comanici, Quality & Training Manager at illy, explained the challenges they face. She shared a startling statistic from the FAO: 'Over 33% of the earth’s soils are already degraded, and over 90% could be degraded by 2050.'
In response, illy has embraced regenerative agriculture, a farming method that not only produces high-quality coffee, but also restores and nourishes the land. 'Our quest for excellence has led us to a new approach to coffee-growing: regenerative agriculture,' Elena says. This means illy’s team works to revitalize the soil and restore biodiversity, ensuring long-term sustainability. Their process is certified by regenagri®, a globally recognized partner in regenerative farming.
I had the chance to try their regenerative blend, Arabica Selection Brazil Cerrado Mineiro, and was completely captivated by its rich, caramel notes. Sourced from the top 1% of the best Arabica beans, this coffee doesn’t just taste incredible – it supports the future of coffee growing.
Eco-friendly extras
Since I've started a more sustainable routine, I've aimed for better endings too. I've opted for more eco-conscious cleaning materials to keep my coffee tools in tip-tip condition for years to come.
Cleaning up can be just as mindful as the brewing process. I reach for my organic, non-toxic cleaning supplies. I want to be gentle yet effective at maintaining my coffee equipment, without introducing harmful chemicals.
Tallo De Olivo is a Colombian brand that empowers local artisans. These linen napkins are hand-crafted from sustainable resources and partnered with Powered by People – a values-driven company that brings small-batch, responsibly-made goods to market.
This sustainable bamboo dish brush is tough on grime but gentle on the environment. A zero-waste kitchen essential, it helps keep your coffee tools spotless while reducing plastic waste and damage to your products.
With some easy swaps, a morning routine can become more mindful and help support the future of coffee for the next generation. My next step? Learning how to use coffee grounds in my garden to revitalize my plants!
