According to this study by Science Direct, across the coffee machine’s full life cycle process, the “use phase” accounts for 95-98% of the environmental effects of workplace coffee machines.
The processes of steam for milk-based beverages absorb most of the energy in the machine, and the heating element for the steam boiler accounts for 51-54% of the usage phase for multiple boiler machines and 91-98% for single boiler machines.
The coffee machine you choose, how you brew your coffee, and where you buy your coffee beans from can have an impact on the environment, so how can you make sustainable choices?
This article will be your guide to sustainable coffee practices in 2025!
Coffee production uses synthetic pesticides and fertilisers, which can pollute rivers, harm aquatic ecosystems, wildlife, and local communities, but how else can coffee production affect the environment?
As coffee plantations are commonly built within tropical rainforests, coffee cultivation can come at a high environmental cost. Tropical rainforests are cleared for coffee cultivation, resulting in topsoil erosion and habitat loss for many animals and plants.
The top layer of soil (which is the most fertile) can be washed away without the protective cover of the trees, destroying the environment.
Deforestation and soil erosion are also problems, and engaging in non-organic coffee farming practices uses synthetic pesticides and fertilisers, which can pollute rivers.
This harms aquatic ecosystems, wildlife, and local communities that rely on these water sources.
Producing, processing, transporting, and brewing coffee contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. For example, a single cup of coffee can generate up to 50 grams of CO2, and this doesn’t include the emissions from the packaging or the methane released from coffee waste in landfills.
With the right cultivation practices in place, coffee plants can do a lot of good for the environment. Helpful for carbon sequestration (a natural or artificial process) to reduce carbon dioxide levels, capturing CO2 from the atmosphere and storing it for a period of time.
Affecting global warming, climate change and much more, it is important to consider coffee beans and a coffee machine that doesn’t harm the environment. Thankfully, there are many things you can do!
How can you implement sustainable coffee practices when it comes to workplace coffee machines? There are many ways to do better for the environment.
Choosing coffee beans that are sustainably sourced supports ethical farming practices and overall benefits the planet.
Look at Fairtrade options as they promote fair wages and safe working conditions for farmers and coffee beans that are Rainforest Alliance Certified, Australian Organic Certified, and 100% chemical free. Take a look at Fairtrade coffee brands (such as Coffea, Nespresso, and ARCC) on the Fairtrade Australia New Zealand website.
Coffee machines that use less energy cut back C02 emissions in our environment, but the amount of energy they use depends on the coffee maker’s size, brand and mechanism.
Grinding beans and heating water (which is the biggest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions) to make coffee, the average coffee machine uses up to 1500 watts of electricity, so it’s essential to do your research!
What are some of the most eco-friendly ways to make a delicious cup of coffee? Consider using a French press or cold brew at room temperature with a cloth filter.
Steeping grounds in water for 12 to 18 hours, doesn’t require pressure or heat to brew – an excellent way to make large batches in the office.
You can also try pour-over brewing. With roots in Japanese coffee culture, pour-over brewing is manually pouring hot water over freshly ground coffee. The water will slowly make its way through the grounds and into a carafe for a controlled extraction and a rich flavour.
Australians use billions of disposable coffee cups every year, and due to this plastic lining, not all cups can be traditionally recycled. Instead of using plastic cups at work, why not use a reusable ceramic, glass or ceramic cup?
Additionally, composting your coffee grounds can reduce a lot of waste as throwing them out in general rubbish doesn’t allow them to decompose naturally, hiking the greenhouse gases produced in landfills. Coffee grounds are also rich in nitrogen, which is perfect for composting, nourishing plants and improving soil structure.
So, why is sustainability so important in the office?
Although it may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you sip a cup of coffee before work begins, sustainable practices and conscious choices can reduce your carbon footprint and put into place ethical business practices.
Working as a team to achieve a common goal can build positive relationships with co-workers and clients alike!
When it’s time to decide on workplace coffee machines for your office, what are some things you can think about when tallying up how sustainable they are?
How energy-efficient is it? Search for workplace coffee machines with energy-saving modes or automatic shut-off features, which can cut back power consumption for offices with high usage.
Do they have reusable components? Choose machines that support reusable coffee pods or filters so you don’t need to rely on single-use plastics and minimal waste.
Do they have durable materials? Ensure the coffee machine you’re looking at has durable, recyclable materials so it lasts longer and doesn’t require frequent replacements.
Does the machine optimise its water use, such as adjustable water settings to minimise water waste during the brewing process?
Does it include recyclable packaging? Use brands that use sustainable packaging for products and accessories.
Regular cleaning such as descaling prevents the build-up of limescale and coffee residues for high performance and lower energy consumption.
Use eco-friendly cleaning products (such as biodegradable) which are free from toxic chemicals and don’t harm wildlife.
Choose a machine with replaceable components (like gaskets or filters) as this makes repairs easy. There’s no need to deal with a frustrating replacement.
If you’ve been stuck on what coffee machine to have in your office, Boutique Coffee has an extensive range for all coffee lovers. Let’s take a look!
If you’ve always wanted to create your dream coffee from your mobile phone, the Barista TS Smart Let’s look at some of the highlights:
If you would like to learn more about the benefits of a good coffee and commercial coffee machine hire in Melbourne, have a read of a guide to choosing the best workplace coffee machine!
Founded in 2008 with a mission to deliver great-tasting coffee to businesses all over Melbourne, Boutique Coffee keeps your team at their best with cafe-quality coffee. Whatever your requirements, we tailor the right equipment and service for your workplace.
We find you the perfect workplace coffee machines in Melbourne, maintain their working order, and keep your coffee and milk stocked for endless productivity. Have you always wanted to walk into your office to be greeted by the beautiful aroma of quality coffee? Boutique Coffee brings the cafe experience into your business.
Contact us today to learn more about our machine range, how it works, and for a productive workspace at the press of a button.