Frontline World Season 4 Episode 11 Guatemala/Mexico: Coffee Country

In the season 4 episode 11 of Frontline/World, viewers are taken on a journey through the heart of coffee country in Guatemala and Mexico. The episode delves into the lives and experiences of coffee farmers, exploring the challenges they face in growing and selling their product in the international market.

Through stunning visuals and intimate interviews, the episode highlights the beauty and complexity of the coffee industry in these two countries. Viewers are introduced to a diverse range of coffee growers, from a small family farm in Guatemala to a large farm in Mexico that produces coffee beans for Starbucks.

One of the key themes of the episode is the impact of globalization on the coffee industry. Viewers learn about the ways in which large multinational corporations like Starbucks have changed the landscape of the market, often to the detriment of small farmers. The episode also explores the role of fair trade and direct trade models in supporting sustainable farming practices and ensuring that growers receive a fair price for their beans.

Another important aspect of the episode is the impact of climate change on coffee production. Viewers learn about the ways in which rising temperatures and changing weather patterns are affecting crops, and the measures that farmers are taking to adapt. From planting new varieties of coffee to implementing water conservation techniques, the episode showcases the ingenuity and resilience of farmers in the face of these challenges.

Overall, the episode paints a powerful and nuanced portrait of the coffee industry in Guatemala and Mexico. From the lush, mountainous landscapes to the stories of individual farmers, viewers are left with a deep appreciation for the complexities and realities of this essential global commodity.