Exceptional coffee is not a foregone conclusion. Like many other species of flora and fauna across the world, the product we love so dearly is under threat from climate change, pests, disease, drastic swings in crop output and more. 

Thankfully, World Coffee Research is working to secure its future. Their continued efforts in the lab and at origin are resulting in exciting new coffee varieties that are not just high yielding and demonstrably resilient in the field, but are also specialty grade with the potential to taste delicious in the cup. 

This series has provided a canvas for two artists to create unique pieces that highlight the hope that World Coffee Research’s pioneering work represents. 

More on Lucy T. Smith:

Lucy T. Smith is a multi-award winning botanical artist and illustrator best known for her work with Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Producing illustrations for the likes of David Attenborough, Smith creates using pen, ink and in some cases water colour. 

Rigorous in her approach, accuracy is key to Lucy’s work and this piece is no exception. Here her fine, intricate botanical drawings perfectly capture the beauty and fragility of the arabica coffee plant, which is the basis for 60% of global coffee production.

Our Work With World Coffee Research:

We’ve partnered with World Coffee Research for the last 5 years. Donating directly to WCR for every kilo of green coffee we’ve purchased, to-date we have contributed over £15,000 to their audacious but laudable efforts. We were lucky enough to visit their research team in Rwanda during our visit in 2019 and witness the work they're doing first hand.

As MiiR’s UK & Ireland distributor, we've worked with MiiR's global team and World Coffee Research to create this initiative, allowing us to contribute even more to a cause we consider crucial not just to the future of specialty coffee, but coffee as a whole. 

Specs:

• Thermo 3D™ Double Wall Vacuum Insulation Techonology.
• Keeps cold, stays hot. Does not sweat.
• A press-on lid prevents splashes and helps keep your drink warmer for longer.
• Lid and cup are BPA free.
• 18/8 Medical grade stainless steel.
• Cup holder compatible.
• Hardshell™ Powder coat.
• Size - 12oz (354ml); 5" x 2,75" (12.70cm x 6.98cm)
• Weight - 240g
• Care Instructions - wash before first use. Hand wash recommended. Lid top rack dishwasher safe.