We hear more and more often about “sustainable development” and “sustainability”, with good reason, in a context where we increasingly understand how necessary it is to protect the environment. Especially freshly roasted coffee consumers pay attention to the environment in the first place by choosing this type of coffee that is grown, harvested and transported in a much more sustainable way. But we will see how this type of coffee helps us go further and even try sustainable ways of preparing it.
As we have mentioned before, we will reiterate how to grow coffee in complete harmony with nature in various parts of the world. But now we are thinking directly about the last step between you and the flavor you love so much - the preparation of coffee.
Many coffee consumers – let's call them responsible consumers – are trying to reinvent traditional, reusable coffee preparation methods or are looking for ecological alternatives to paper filters. We will finally present you some methods that are much "older" than we imagined, that have stood the test of time and now have the opportunity to reinvent them.
While you may have come across some of the methods below on our website, we now look at them through this 'eco' lens, so stay tuned if you've become the latest weatherman or have always been more environmentally conscious. .
Moka Pot
The Moka Pot is ideal for obtaining an intense coffee, thanks to its high-temperature extraction method, which helps to obtain a coffee with a high caffeine content. Obviously, in this case, it is necessary to purchase a stainless steel Moka Pot to make it last as long as possible. At the same time, we must pay attention to the fact that the instrument has an overpressure valve to avoid possible accidents. There is also a special one for making coffee at Moka Pot.
Here are some care tips to get the most out of your Moka Pot and at the same time avoid turning it into waste:
- Just wash the moka pot with water after each use, or you can use a soft cloth. Avoid using detergents or abrasive sponges.
- Replace the gasket only if you see any leaks
- Replace the filter only if it shows traces of rust or scale
- Replace the funnel only if you notice traces of rust on it
washable coffee filters
Cloth filters are considered to be the oldest methods of filtering coffee. The first coffee filter in history is believed to have been made from fabric that dates back to 19th century Japan, and it still remains popular in coffee-producing regions today. They are produced in various shapes so that they can be used very easily. And it is not only easy to use, but also easy to maintain. Additionally, they may retain some of the coffee's oils, which otherwise may slightly affect the final flavor. Cloth filters can be used for any type of coffee. We know that at some point you will have to throw these filters away, but still in this case the environmental impact is minimal compared to disposable filters.
metal filters
Metal filters can also be a very good alternative to paper filters. If they are well protected, they can be even more durable than the previously offered canvas ones. We recommend using stainless steel filters such as the Moka Pot to prevent rust. Obviously, you will definitely experience a different coffee taste because unlike paper or even cloth filters, metal filters do not absorb the oils in the coffee. The type of filter you choose affects flavor, acidity, and the way flavors mix. We know it may sound a little strange, but coffee's natural oils are responsible for most of the flavors coffee can have – no less than 800 in total! These oils greatly add to the overall flavor experience. In terms of maintenance, metal filters aren't exactly easy to clean and maintain, but they can last a lifetime if you take care of them properly. And of course it means zero waste of paper.
French Press
One of the most popular and also one of the oldest tools for brewing coffee, the French Press won't fail when you need it. If you invest in a quality French Press (with a glass cup and a very good filter), it's definitely one of the most sustainable ways to make coffee. The mug is equipped with a filter that will trap coffee particles and help you prepare a very aromatic coffee. Here you can also find some steps to help you get a taste to your liking.
Here are some maintenance tips to get the most out of your French Press and at the same time avoid turning it into waste:
- Clean the French Press after each use to prevent scale build-up.
- Wash each piece separately. If the sieve can be disassembled, we recommend that you do so. You can use dish soap or some baking soda. Rinse well.
- Dry each part thoroughly before reassembling.
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