A Unique Coffee with a Powerful Mission
The Glacier Trust and Happy Barista have joined forces to introduce a groundbreaking charity coffee roast, sourced from the Solukhumbu region of Nepal. This special edition marks the first time coffee beans from Solukhumbu have been roasted in the UK, highlighting both the region’s distinct flavour profile and the success of climate adaptation efforts in Nepal.
The Solukhumbu Charity Roast is the result of a decade-long initiative supporting local farmers in transitioning to coffee cultivation as a sustainable alternative to traditional subsistence farming. As rising temperatures, erratic weather patterns, and intense rainfall events challenge agriculture in the Himalayan foothills, coffee grown in a layered agroforestry system offers a viable and long-term economic solution while preserving the local environment.
Empowering Farmers Through Climate Adaptation
Solukhumbu, a district in the Himalayan region of Nepal and home to Mount Everest, has not historically been a coffee-producing area. However, with the support of The Glacier Trust and its implementing partner, the NGO EcoHimal, local farmers have successfully adopted new cultivation techniques. Thousands of coffee seedlings have been planted, allowing communities to adapt to shifting environmental conditions and build climate resilience while establishing a more secure economic future.
“We are excited to collaborate with Happy Barista to highlight the remarkable efforts taking place in Solukhumbu,” said Mark Holmes, Executive Director of The Glacier Trust. This collaboration is about more than exceptional coffee it’s about supporting communities on the frontline of climate change, ensuring they have the tools and resources to thrive despite environmental challenges.
A Commitment to Ethical Coffee Production
Happy Barista, a County Durham-based roastery renowned for its ethically sourced, expertly crafted coffee, has worked closely with The Glacier Trust to develop a roast that not only highlights Solukhumbu’s unique flavour but also directly supports the farmers behind it. The coffee is grown using sustainable farming methods that protect the region’s biodiversity while ensuring a high-quality product.
“This collaboration is incredibly special to us,” said Tom Bolland of Happy Barista. Coffee has the power to create positive change, and this initiative reflects our commitment to making a real difference. Every cup tells a story of resilience, community, and hope, and we are honoured to play a role in bringing this incredible coffee to the UK market.
Supporting Climate Action with Every Purchase
Proceeds from each sale will go directly to The Glacier Trust’s ongoing initiatives in Nepal, which include:
- Agroforestry and Climate-Resilient Farming – Helping farmers implement sustainable agricultural practices suited to changing weather conditions.
- Water Resource Management – Ensuring access to clean and sustainable water sources for farming and daily use.
- Climate Education and Research – Providing training and knowledge-sharing to support long-term adaptation strategies that empower local communities.
Beyond its charitable impact, the Solukhumbu Charity Roast is a truly exceptional coffee. Scoring 83/100 on a recent Q-grading, it falls within the ‘very good’ category, with a rich, vibrant flavour profile that reflects the region’s unique terroir. Coffee lovers who purchase this special edition roast will not only enjoy a premium product but will also play an active role in supporting climate resilience in Nepal.
The Solukhumbu Charity Roast is now available for purchase through Happy Barista’s online store and coffee pod. Customers can explore the story behind the coffee, learn more about the farmers, and contribute directly to vital climate action efforts in Nepal with every cup they enjoy.
