This European Regulation on deforestation-free products (EUDR) is a direct response to the alarming loss of nearly half of the planet’s forests, driven mainly by human consumption patterns.

Partnership Between the EU and Ivory Coast 

This collaboration between the EU and Ivory Coast aims not only to protect the environment but also to create sustainable economic opportunities for local communities.

Recognizing the importance of cocoa to the national economy, both partners are working together to implement measures that ensure forest conservation without compromising economic growth.

The recent designation of the Mabi-Yaya forest as a natural reserve is a significant milestone and clearly demonstrates the commitment in this joint effort, along with the mobilization of paramilitaries to ensure the protection of this vital space.

This measure not only protects an important ecosystem but also promotes biodiversity and preserves natural resources for future generations. Furthermore, the mobilization of paramilitaries to protect the area demonstrates a serious commitment to enforcing conservation policies.

This partnership between the EU and Ivory Coast highlights the potential for international collaboration in seeking sustainable environmental and economic solutions. By joining forces, these two partners are setting an inspiring example of how environmental protection and economic development can go hand in hand.

This integrated approach not only benefits the environment but also strengthens local communities and promotes a more prosperous and equitable future for all.

Sustainability

By investing in digitization and tracking of its products, Cayat ensures that the cocoa marketed is free from any association with deforestation. This commitment not only preserves the environment but also opens doors to conquer new markets and customers.

The implementation of tracking systems allows consumers and companies to identify the origin and path of products, ensuring they are produced ethically and sustainably. By adopting transparent and responsible practices, the Cayat cooperative not only strengthens its reputation in the pursuit of sustainability in the cocoa industry.

By adopting higher production standards, cooperatives like Cayat can access premium markets and obtain higher prices for their products. This not only increases producers’ incomes but also contributes to the sustainable economic development of cocoa-producing regions.

By providing detailed information about the origin and production practices, cooperatives like Cayat establish a direct link between the end consumer and local farmers. This not only strengthens community ties but also promotes greater transparency and accountability throughout the supply chain.

By adopting sustainable and transparent practices, companies like Cayat are paving the way for a future where cocoa production will be socially responsible and environmentally viable. This approach protects the environment and ensures a safe and ethical supply of cocoa for future generations, allowing us to enjoy chocolate pleasure without feeling guilty.

Incentives

This approach aims not only to protect the environment but also to ensure the long-term economic viability of the cocoa industry. Producers like Jérôme Assi Obo are experiencing the benefits of these sustainable initiatives.

By adopting more responsible agricultural practices that respect the environment, they can increase their production and obtain better incomes. These positive results encourage other producers to follow suit, creating a virtuous cycle of sustainability and economic prosperity.

The promotion of sustainable agricultural practices benefits not only individual producers but also contributes to the well-being of local communities and environmental balance. By preserving forests and adopting more efficient agricultural techniques, Ivory Coast is protecting natural resources for future generations.

These incentives for sustainable practices represent a significant step towards a more responsible and ethical cocoa industry. By integrating environmental and economic considerations into their agricultural policies, Ivory Coast demonstrates its commitment to sustainable development and the preservation of natural resources.

Challenges and Opportunities

However, these requirements also open doors for innovation and differentiation in the market. A notable example is Tony’s Chocolonely, a Dutch brand that stands out by paying 50% more for cocoa as part of its fair and sustainable business practices approach.

“WHEN YOU KNOW WHO THE FARMERS ARE AND WHERE THEY ARE LOCATED, IT IS POSSIBLE TO BEGIN WORKING WITH COOPERATIVES AND FARMER FAMILIES TO FIND SOLUTIONS”.

“THIS IS AN APPEAL TO ALL SECTOR COMPANIES TO PAY A HIGHER PRICE”.

“THIS WILL CHALLENGE THE UNDERLYING ISSUES OF POVERTY THAT LEAD TO DEFORESTATION AND CHILD LABOR IN SUPPLY CHAINS”.

Explained Katie Sims, Tony’s Chocolonely Partnership Manager.

By adopting this stance, the company not only meets the requirements of the new regulation but also positions itself as a leader in corporate social responsibility. This commitment not only adds value to the brand but also attracts conscious consumers willing to support companies that prioritize ethics and sustainability.

For European companies, compliance with the new regulation is not just a matter of legal compliance but also an opportunity for differentiation and sustainable growth.

By investing in ethical and responsible business practices, companies can not only avoid fines but also build stronger relationships with consumers and strengthen their position in the global market.

Furthermore, the growing focus on sustainability can also stimulate innovation and collaboration among companies. By seeking creative solutions to reduce the environmental impact of their operations, European companies can drive the green economy and contribute to a more sustainable and prosperous future for all.

Products Covered by EU New Rules

• Beef – 41% of global deforestation and 80% of Amazon deforestation are entirely caused by beef production.
• Palm Oil – Every hour, about 300 football fields of forest are being destroyed to make way for palm plantations. About 90% of the world’s oil palms are grown in Malaysia and Indonesia.
• Soy – Globally, soy accounts for about 12% of deforestation. About 81% of soy is grown to feed livestock, mainly chickens, pigs, and dairy cows.
• Coffee – About 130,000 hectares of forest have been lost annually over the past 20 years due to land deforestation for coffee cultivation.
• Cocoa – Cocoa production is associated with 37.4% of deforestation in Ivory Coast and 13.5% in Ghana since 2000. The two countries produce almost two-thirds of the world’s cocoa supply.
• Wood – Every year, about 2.5 million hectares of land are converted into intensive tree plantations.

Companies trading in these products must prove that they do not come from deforested land for their production. Large companies have until December 2024 to comply with these requirements, while SMEs have until June 2025. After that, products that do not comply with the new rules will be prohibited from entering or leaving the EU market.

Conclusion

See Also:

Chocolate: The Nexus of Illegal Cocoa Cultivation

Eny’s Treats: An African Start-up of Healthy Snacks

Photo: © 2022 Sia Kambou