The fourth edition of the “Italian Creativity Capitals in the World” competition was won by the Italian Cultural Institute of Bangkok, in collaboration with the Embassy of Italy in Thailand, with the multidisciplinary project “Italia Reloaded. Tradition, Aesthetics and Innovation between Taste and Memory.” Within this program, “Sip of Italy” presents a multidisciplinary event dedicated to the world of coffee, explored through its cultural, social, and sensory dimensions. As part of this framework, the conference “Coffee as a Cultural Bridge: Thailand and Italy”, led by Don Bruno together with a skilled worker from a local coffee plantation, offered insights into coffee as a tool for intercultural dialogue and as an element of environmental and social sustainability.
From observation to action: Coffee that protects the land and supports communities
During a visit to local villages in the province of Lampang, in northern Thailand, Father Bruno noticed that many residents had hands stained with a reddish color. He discovered that this was caused by the chemical treatments used on corn seeds, which farmers handled with bare hands. Intensive corn cultivation—often the main source of income for many families—also required clearing forests and burning vegetation, leaving mountains barren and creating severe environmental imbalance.
To protect community health, safeguard the environment, and improve farmers’ livelihoods, the missionaries launched a new initiative in 2012: promoting the cultivation of perennial plants to replace corn, teaching farmers how to roast coffee, and purchasing agricultural products directly from them at fair prices.
The story of Don Bruno and the missionaries of the Laudato Si Social Enterprise is a true example of sustainability and social commitment. Laudato Si Social Enterprise is a company founded by Italian missionaries who, since 2000, have supported communities in the province of Lampang, particularly in the districts of Chae Hom, Wang Nuea, and Mueang Pan. The name “Laudato Si” reflects their dedication to environmental care and the promotion of organic agriculture, inspired by Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si’, which calls for the protection of our “common home,” the planet:
“An integral approach is needed to combat poverty, restore dignity to the excluded, and at the same time care for nature.”
