How Does Fairtrade Promote Environmental Sustainability?

Environmental Sustainability Guidelines in Fairtrade

Fairtrade has established several guidelines to promote environmental sustainability in cocoa farming:

Responsible Land Management

Fairtrade prohibits deforestation and degradation of natural forests on certified farms. Farmers must receive training on protecting areas in their region that are designated as protected areas.

Biodiversity Conservation

Farmers must evaluate opportunities for improving biodiversity on their property, such as through agroforestry systems or intercropping. They must present the best options to improve ecosystem health, which often leads to enhanced carbon sequestration.

Reduced Pesticide Use

Pesticides can only be used on a limited and justifiable basis under Fairtrade standards. Synthetic pesticides classified as hazardous are prohibited.

Sustainable Fertilizer Application

Fertilizers must only be applied based on soil analysis and the nutrient needs of the crop, to minimize unnecessary application of synthetic nitrogen fertilizers.

Waste and Water Management

Fairtrade standards include requirements related to proper disposal of waste, hazardous materials, and wastewater. Farmers must identify and manage risks such as contamination of local waterways.

Incentives for Organic Farming

Fairtrade provides an increased Minimum Price and Premium for organically grown cocoa, incentivizing farmers to adopt organic practices.

Environmental Training and Capacity Building

Fairtrade seeks to ensure farmers have the knowledge and capacity to produce sustainably and safeguard their natural environment. Farmers receive training on implementing environmentally friendly practices.

By adhering to these environmental guidelines, Fairtrade-certified cocoa farmers minimize the ecological footprint of cocoa production and contribute to the long-term sustainability of the industry.

Citations: https://www.fairtrade.net/standard https://www.fairtrade.net/standard/about https://www.fairtrade.org.uk/what-is-fairtrade/fairtrade-and-sustainability/ https://fairtradeanz.org/stories/what-is-fairtrade-heres-everything-you-need-to-know https://www.fairtradecertified.org/why-fair-trade/issues/environment/ https://www.fairtradeamerica.org/the-standards/ https://fairtradeanz.org/stories/fairtrade-vs-direct-trade-exploring-paths-for-cocoa-farmers https://worldcocoafoundation.org/news-and-resources/article/fairtrades-new-cocoa-standard-striking-a-balance-between-robust-requirements-and-fairness-for-farmers