ES Gás and coffee producer Eduardo Bortolini are testing natural gas to dry conilon coffee beans at Fazenda Chapadão in Linhares, Espírito Santo [1, 2].
The project seeks to replace traditional wood-fuel drying methods with a system that is more cost-effective and environmentally sustainable [3, 4].
The pilot project began in May 2024, coinciding with the start of the coffee harvest season [1]. The initiative involves a total investment of R$ 1 million [3]. By shifting away from wood, the partnership aims to reduce the environmental impact of the drying process while improving operational efficiency [3, 4].
Researchers are measuring several key metrics during the trial. These include the overall cost of production and the operational efficiency of the gas-powered systems [1, 2]. The team is also monitoring grain quality to ensure that the change in heat source does not negatively affect the final product [1, 2].
Traceability and sustainability are central to the project's goals. The transition to natural gas allows for more precise control over the drying process, a factor that can influence the consistency of the coffee beans [1, 2]. This precision is intended to provide a competitive advantage in markets that prioritize sustainable agricultural practices [3, 4].
Fazenda Chapadão serves as the primary site for these evaluations. The results from the site will determine if the model can be scaled to other producers across the region [1, 2].
“The project seeks to replace traditional wood-fuel drying methods with a system that is more cost-effective and environmentally sustainable.”
The transition from biomass to natural gas in coffee processing represents a strategic shift toward industrialization in Brazil's agro-sector. If the pilot proves successful, it could reduce deforestation pressures caused by wood-fuel reliance and standardize the quality of conilon coffee for international export.
