Covestro is committed to sustainable solutions in the agricultural field and has developed solar dryers made of polycarbonate specifically to support Ethiopian coffee farmers during the harvest season. The project, implemented in cooperation with GIZ GmbH, aims to assist people in vulnerable regions worldwide through simple yet effective technology.

Coffee is one of Ethiopia's most important trade commodities, providing livelihoods for many smallholder farmers. However, climate change—such as rising temperatures and irregular rainfall—has significantly impacted coffee cultivation. Coffee yields are declining, and plants are becoming more susceptible to pests and diseases. It is within this context that the Covestro and GIZ project was initiated, aiming to make coffee production more efficient and resilient.

To achieve this goal, Covestro supported the development of a solar dryer—a parabolic structure similar to a greenhouse but with better control over temperature and humidity. Unlike glass, this dryer uses lightweight, transparent, and thermally insulating polycarbonate multiwall panels, which also provide UV protection. This technology enables rapid and hygienic drying of coffee while protecting the harvested beans from rain, pests, and mold.

GIZ supports this project as part of the German development program develoPPP, which promotes sustainable initiatives in developing and emerging countries. The goal is to combine private sector participation with development policy objectives to achieve long-term economic and social benefits.

"Solar energy greenhouse dryers significantly shorten the drying time of washed coffee and naturally processed coffee. This enables farmers to process coffee more efficiently and bring it to market more quickly. Additionally, the closed environment of the dryer protects coffee beans from contamination, improving quality and reducing waste. Local cooperatives have regarded this innovation as a valuable asset in their coffee production," explained Dr. Helene Widmer, GIZ project manager. "Our collaboration with Covestro demonstrates how innovative material technology can contribute to stabilizing agriculture."

Pejman Norastehfar, Head of Inclusive Business for Covestro in the EMEA region, added: "The successful implementation of solar dryers impressively demonstrates the positive impact of innovative and sustainable technologies on the coffee industry. We are proud to collaborate with GIZ and local cooperatives to provide a solution that not only increases efficiency but also improves coffee quality and shelf life. With our solution, we can help address climate change challenges on the ground."

So far, Ethiopia has installed six solar dryers, and the project is still progressing. One of Ethiopia's largest coffee roasters has taken notice of the solar dryers and has purchased four additional units for its own production, which are currently being installed.