Date of Award
5-2016
Degree Type
Capstone
Degree Name
Dual Degree Master of Business Administration/Master of Science in Environmental Science and Policy (MBA/ESP)
Department
International Development, Community and Environment
Chief Instructor
Denise Humphreys Bebbington
Second Reader
David Correll
Keywords
Voluntary Carbon Market, Coffee, Latin America, ES&P, MBA
Abstract
Agroforestry producers have not participated on a large-scale in carbon markets. This paper assesses the potential for small-scale coffee producers to access the voluntary carbon market. A review of the current market including standards, trends, and how value is created is followed by an overview of Latin American coffee production. Drawing on tools from the conceptual framework of global production networks I explore how coffee producers can benefit from the development of carbon credits. Current carbon credit projects under development with coffee producers are considered, and one case study presented. The tools and conditions necessary for full access to carbon markets, potential benefits, and avenues for action are identified. Coffee producers must be members of pre-existing cooperatives in order to access the voluntary carbon market. Producers who are able to communicate a powerful story regarding the co-benefits of projects, particularly climate resilience, are most successful and earn higher prices for credits.
Recommended Citation
Woodside, Ruby, "Creating value in the voluntary carbon market: opportunities for small-scale coffee producers in Latin America to access carbon capital." (2016). International Development, Community and Environment (IDCE). 20.
https://commons.clarku.edu/idce_masters_papers/20