Nestlé’s Climate-Resilient Coffee Plants: How Data Science and AI are Leading the Way

Nestlé is utilizing data science and artificial intelligence to develop climate-resilient plants in landscapes facing environmental challenges. Due to climate change limiting the growth of weather-resistant coffee plants, Nestlé’s plant scientists are using data science to identify factors that will produce healthy crops. By leveraging AI, the company is scanning a digital database of coffee traits to cultivate more sustainable coffee and plant disease- and drought-resistant beans.

The focus is on Arabica coffee, which accounts for 70% of global coffee production. However, Arabica is more susceptible to disease and has lower heat tolerance, making it challenging to grow in the face of water shortages and limited arable land. Nestlé is working with the French National Institute for Sustainable Development and global consortium partners to address this issue. Through state-of-the-art genomics approaches, Nestlé has developed an advanced Arabica reference to help identify key genetic markers responsible for specific traits in coffee plants.

This initiative is part of Nestlé’s Nescafé Plan 2030, aimed at regenerative agriculture. The company’s coffee segment is experiencing growth, with coffee sales growing at a high single-digit rate within powdered and liquid beverages. Nestlé’s coffee brands include Nescafe, Nespresso, Dolce Gusto, Starbucks Coffee at Home, and Blue Bottle Coffee. By leveraging data science and artificial intelligence, Nestlé is paving the way for more sustainable and resilient coffee cultivation practices.

Nestlé’s plant scientists are using data science techniques like machine learning algorithms to analyze large datasets on weather patterns, soil composition, and other environmental factors that affect crop growth. They then use this information to optimize irrigation systems, fertilizers, and other farming practices that promote healthy plant growth while reducing water usage.

In addition to developing new crop varieties that are better suited to changing climate conditions, Nestlé is also working on improving agricultural practices in areas where water scarcity or soil degradation pose challenges. For example, the company has partnered with local farmers in countries like Ethiopia to implement sustainable farming methods such as drip irrigation systems that conserve water while delivering nutrients directly to plant roots.

Overall, this initiative highlights how data science can play a crucial role in addressing some of the world’s most pressing agricultural challenges. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies like genomics and machine learning algorithms