KOPETE: Sustainable Non-Caffeinated Coffee Innovation from Local Buton Pete as a Green Entrepreneurship Model Supporting Sustainable Tourism

Abstract

The increasing global demand for sustainable tourism and healthy lifestyle products has encouraged the emergence of innovative, locally based entrepreneurial initiatives. This study introduces KOPETE, a non-caffeinated coffee alternative derived from locally sourced pete (Parkia speciosa) in Buton, Indonesia and examines its role as a sustainable tourism-supporting innovation. Unlike conventional coffee products, KOPETE is developed as a caffeine-free beverage that promotes health-conscious consumption while enhancing the economic value of local biodiversity. The study aims to examine the innovation process, value creation strategy, and its potential role as a green entrepreneurship model supporting sustainable tourism development. Using a qualitative descriptive approach, data were collected from 12 informations consisting of local farmer (n=4), Kopete producers (n=3), tourism stakeholders (n=3) and community distributors (n=2). The research analyzes local resource utilization, community-based production practices, and market positioning strategies. The findings reveal that KOPETE generates three interconnected value dimensions: (1) economic value through income diversification and value-added processing; (2) environmental value through low-emission production and waste reuse practices; and (3) socio-cultural value through strengthening local identity and culinary heritage. Empirical evidence shows that controlled roasting reduces sulfur odor, one of the main barriers to consumer acceptance, while community-based production enhances local participation. KOPETE demonstrates strong potential to become a sustainable culinary tourism product that enhances destination branding and visitor experience in Buton. The study concludes that integrating local food innovation with green entrepreneurship principles can contribute significantly to sustainable tourism development while empowering local communities.