In the heart of Indonesia’s Banjarnegara Regency, a quiet revolution is taking place in the coffee fields of Binangun Village. Farmers are turning to integrated organic management within coffee agroforestry systems, not just to improve their yields, but to build resilience against the growing threats of climate change. This innovative approach, detailed in a recent study published in the *BIO Web of Conferences*, offers a promising model for sustainable farming in upstream watershed areas.
The Merawu Watershed, where Binangun Village is located, has long grappled with environmental challenges such as land degradation and landslides. These issues are exacerbated by climate change, making it increasingly difficult for farmers to maintain productive and profitable coffee plantations. However, the study led by Hobo Kristin Banyu Risang from the Watershed Management Laboratory at Universitas Gadjah Mada reveals that farmers are adapting—with remarkable results.
“Ninety-five percent of the farmers we surveyed were aware of climate change and had adopted adaptive strategies based on local knowledge,” Risang explains. These strategies primarily revolve around organic and agroforestry practices, which not only support environmental sustainability but also enhance productivity and profitability. The study found that among organic farmers, 42% had low, 37% moderate, and 16% high coffee yields. Land productivity ranged from IDR 20-246 million per hectare, with the highest returns achieved through full organic inputs.
The shift to organic management is driven by a desire to improve soil fertility, ensure long-term productivity, and promote environmental sustainability. “Farmers are realizing that organic practices are not just good for the environment but also for their bottom line,” Risang notes. The study also highlighted that socio-demographic factors like age and education had limited influence on the adoption of these practices. Instead, peer influence, local knowledge, and the availability of organic input sources played greater roles.
The commercial implications of this research are significant. As consumer demand for sustainably produced coffee grows, farmers who adopt climate-smart organic practices could gain a competitive edge in the market. This approach not only enhances the resilience of coffee agroforestry systems but also opens up new opportunities for premium pricing and access to niche markets.
The study’s findings suggest that integrated organic management in coffee agroforestry could serve as a blueprint for other upstream watershed areas facing similar environmental challenges. By combining traditional knowledge with modern sustainable practices, farmers can create a more resilient and profitable agricultural system. This research underscores the importance of community-driven solutions in addressing climate change and highlights the potential for organic farming to drive both environmental and economic benefits.
As the agriculture sector continues to evolve, the lessons from Binangun Village offer a compelling case for the adoption of climate-smart practices. The study’s emphasis on local knowledge and community engagement provides a roadmap for other regions looking to enhance their resilience in the face of climate change. With further research and support, this approach could shape the future of sustainable farming, not just in Indonesia but around the world.