Addressing Unsustainable Cocoa Practices in Cote d’Ivoire

In the 1960s, cocoa yields were on the rise in Cote d’Ivoire, and diseases were scarce. However, the relentless push for increased production led to unsustainable practices and widespread deforestation, according to Mr Adei. This abusive consumption of forest resources had a profoundly negative impact on cocoa productivity in the region.

Recognizing the urgent need for change, the Ivorian government is taking steps to address these issues, as the livelihoods of farmers are at stake.

Implementing Sustainable Practices

As the UK and Europe move towards regulations banning the sale of commodities linked to deforestation, Ivorian authorities are also working towards compliance measures. Fadiga Mamadou Deye, head of the cafe-cocoa board for the Bafing-Tonkpi region, is leading a farmer ID card pilot program. This initiative collects data on annual yields, tree numbers, and agroforestry efforts for each farm to ensure sustainable practices.

While Fairtrade-certified co-operatives like Yeyasso have embraced these changes, others face challenges in reaching all farmers due to financial and logistical constraints.

Embracing Change

Yeyasso has taken proactive steps such as geo-mapping its farms, establishing tree nurseries, and planting thousands of new cocoa, fruit, and shade trees. The co-operative is also participating in the Shared Impact project, a supermarket supply chain initiative led by Fairtrade.

This innovative project aims to increase the purchase of commodities on longer-term contracts, providing stability for producers and boosting premium payments for social and environmental initiatives.

Building a Sustainable Future

Shared Impact has the potential to enhance income stability, fund training programs, support co-operatives in need, and ensure investment certainty for struggling farmers. By fostering collaboration among businesses, this initiative can amplify sustainability efforts and create a more resilient cocoa industry.

Kerrina Thorogood, director of partnerships at Fairtrade Foundation, emphasized the importance of collective action in achieving sustainability goals.

Conclusion

As Cote d’Ivoire navigates the challenges of unsustainable cocoa practices, initiatives like the Shared Impact project offer hope for a more sustainable future. By working together and embracing innovative solutions, stakeholders in the cocoa industry can build a more resilient and environmentally conscious supply chain.

About the Author:

Rebecca Speare-Cole is a sustainability reporter at PA.