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Which varieties are deeply affected by small changes in climate—for example, hotter, drier temperatures—and which have stable performance across a wide range of climates? How does climate impact yields, disease tolerance, or cup quality? Shockingly, there is almost nothing known about the effects of the environment on coffee tree performance.

While these varieties are still relatively new to coffee farmers and industry, it is difficult to imagine a future without them. No varieties in the past have been able to combine traits that matter to both farmers and consumers in quite the same way. F1 hybrids will be key to helping coffee producers remain profitable and resilient in the face of climate change.

Kenya was one of the first countries to be included in the International Multilocation Variety Trial.

Work is underway at a new Breeding Hub in East Africa, which is using advanced breeding approaches to help combat low yield, climate change, and disease. A new article in Global Coffee Report highlights the work so far.