Coffee production has a history as a colonial crop, destructive to the environment. Can coffee support biodiversity and local farms? What if we teach farmers how to grow coffee sustainably? What if doing so means opposing mega-corporations, or even advocating for political independence? Learn about new research and education efforts by two U-M scientists who are intent on revolutionizing coffee production to something sustainable that benefits local communities. John Vandermeer (Ecology and Evolutionary Biology) and Ivette Perfecto (School for Environment and Sustainability) have worked with coffee production in Mexico, and are currently working in Puerto Rico. Learn about the obstacles to this important work - this conversation may change the source of your morning brew! Bring your coffee questions.



Science Cafés provide an opportunity for audiences to discuss current research topics with experts in an informal setting. Hors d’oeuvres at 5:30 p.m.; program 6:00-7:30 p.m. Seating is limited—come early.

UMMNH would like to thank Conor O’Neill’s for 15 years of support for our Science Cafés. Their continued commitment brings U-M faculty into the Ann Arbor community to discuss current research topics.