PERMACULTURE - Definition
Thus, this virtuous on-site composting cycle acts as a unique organic source for our plantations, promoting soil and crop health while creating a synergy where animals thrive, the economy develops without harm, and the entire system prospers in harmony. This permaculture philosophy is based on the study and understanding of fundamental biological laws, respect for the earth and its natural processes, as well as the responsible cultivation of the fruits of a healthy land.
WATER CONSERVATION
The tributary river flowing down the Ecuadorian Andes and its spring-fed streams are primordial elements in our nature reserve. The crystalline, mineral-rich water represents real value in our eyes. It is currently seriously threatened by invasive mining companies in the region's territories, as well as by the increasing use of pesticides and other chemical products by farmers. To protect the water alongside its environment, we have initiated several steps described below.
Water Protection & Access to Drinking Water
Defending our various bodies of water with the help of governmental laws is a primary issue to ensure our community benefits from better access to potable water. Katalina Robalino, founder of Café Latitude Zéro and president of the community, has managed to place water under governmental protection against any contamination due to the natural exploitation of various resources adorning the region. Additionally, we are simultaneously working with a neighboring village to make potable water accessible to our two communities, which total approximately 500 people.
Water Usage in Cultivation
Furthermore, we strive to eradicate the current use of chemical products in the surrounding plantations, thus preventing their damaging residues from accumulating in water bodies. During our grain collection, our purchase contracts are signed under several environmental conditions, such as the absence of chemicals during coffee cultivation and the advocacy of polycultural practices to promote the perpetuity of ecosystems and their native forests. To complement our requirements, we offer free access to information on ecological equivalents and the necessary practices to implement this new, more efficient, less expensive, and long-term sustainable system.
SOIL RESTORATION AND PERMACULTURE
Beyond organic farming and the balance between what is taken from the earth and what is returned to it, our cultivation method not only does not contaminate the environment but also provides clear advantages. The goal is to create the best possible conditions for our plantation in addition to practicing agriculture that promotes environmental flourishing. Our permacultural practices make it possible to maintain balanced ecosystems with rich and ideal soils for the successful development of a coffee plant.
Eco-responsible farming from the soil up
We enrich the ground of our forests and their coffee plantations by optimizing nature's cycle. Leaves and branches of trees that decompose in the soil form excellent protection and promote the creation of micro-organisms.
To reinforce the richness of the earth without disrupting its initial balance, we have designed 100% natural fertilizers created from
animal droppings as well as other elements from our farm. In addition, the water used during our production process is recovered to water our plantations and enrich them with its nutrient-rich residues.
Promoting the Ecosystem's Flourishing
Our idea is to take advantage of all forms of natural life as an ally and not to kill it. From the forests we create and conserve to the micro-organisms whose procreation is encouraged within the soils. Our self-sufficient and eco-responsible system may take longer to implement and offers less abundance than artificially stimulated production, but it represents long-term advantages. It guarantees efficient production, not only for us but for the future of the environment and the future of its next generations of workers.
